Year 4 & Year 5 · 11+ Exam Preparation

Preparing for the 11+? Let's make every week count.

The difference between a pass and a miss often comes down to structured, consistent practice. We help families build a realistic plan that fits around school and life — whether you have 12 months or 12 weeks.

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For Year 4 & Year 5

Free 11+ Diagnostic Assessment Test

See exactly where your child stands before the 11+ — completely free. Book your slot in seconds.

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The 11+ Preparation Roadmap

Whether you have 12 months or 12 weeks, this is how structured preparation works. Find your stage and start there.

4Subjects Tested
20–30Min/Day Ideal
FREE Mock Papers
100%Free Diagnostics
1

Foundation — 12+ months before the exam

Build core skills in maths and English. Introduce Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning question types for the first time. Focus on understanding concepts, not speed. Ideal starting point for Year 4 or early Year 5.

2

Targeted Practice — 6–12 months before

Move to timed topic papers. Use diagnostic results to identify weak areas and target them. Increase VR and NVR exposure with varied question styles. Build stamina with longer sessions.

3

Mock Exams — 2–6 months before

Sit full-length mock exams under realistic test conditions. Review every wrong answer — this is where the biggest gains happen. Practise time management across a full paper.

4

Final Sprint — last 2 months

Light revision only — no new topics. Focus on confidence, exam technique and a calm routine. Revisit tricky question types. Keep sessions short and positive leading into test day.

What Does the 11+ Actually Test?

Four subjects, each requiring a different approach.

Maths

Number, algebra, geometry, statistics and multi-step problem solving. Non-calculator.

Tested in: CSSE & GL

English

Comprehension, creative writing, spelling, punctuation and grammar (SPaG).

Tested in: CSSE & GL

Verbal Reasoning

Word patterns, codes, logic puzzles and vocabulary-based reasoning.

Tested in: GL

Non-Verbal Reasoning

Shape sequences, spatial awareness, rotations and pattern recognition.

Tested in: GL

Sample Weekly Study Schedule

Day Subject Duration Focus Area

How to Split Your Weekly Study Time

A balanced approach covers all four subjects with the right emphasis.

Maths
30%
Strong maths foundations are essential — most 11+ papers weight maths heavily.
English
30%
Comprehension, creative writing and SPaG — English carries equal weight in CSSE papers.
Verbal Reasoning
25%
VR tests vocabulary, logic and reasoning patterns rarely covered in the classroom.
Non-Verbal Reasoning
15%
NVR is rarely taught in school — early, regular exposure is essential for confidence.

See What Your Child Will Face

Sample Question — Maths
A shop reduces all prices by 15%. A coat originally costs £80. What is the sale price?
£68.
15% of £80 = £12. Sale price = £80 − £12 = £68.
Sample Question — English
Read: ‘The ancient oak stood like a weary sentinel, its branches drooping under the weight of centuries.’ What technique is used, and what effect does it create?
Simile and personification.
The simile (“like a weary sentinel”) compares the tree to a tired guard, while personification (“weary”, “drooping under the weight”) gives the tree human qualities, creating a sense of age and exhaustion.
Sample Question — Verbal Reasoning
Find the word that completes both sentences:
‘The ___ of the hill was covered in wildflowers.’
‘She reached the ___ of her career last year.’
PEAK.
“Peak” means the top of a hill and the highest point of a career. It fits both sentences.
Sample Question — Non-Verbal Reasoning
In a sequence, the figure rotates 45° clockwise each step and alternates shaded/unshaded. Step 3 is shaded at 90°. What is step 5?
Shaded at 180°.
Step 3 = shaded, 90°. Step 4 = unshaded, 135°. Step 5 = shaded, 180°. The pattern alternates shading and adds 45° each step.

5 Common Mistakes Parents Make

Avoid these pitfalls to give your child the best chance.

1

Starting too late

Many parents leave it until a few months before the exam. By then, there's little time to build foundations. Starting early gives your child the best advantage.

2

Focusing only on practice papers

Papers test — they don't teach. Your child needs to learn concepts before being timed on them.

3

Ignoring Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning

Schools don't cover VR and NVR. Without dedicated practice, your child faces question types they've never seen.

4

Over-scheduling and burnout

Two hours a night kills motivation. Short, focused daily sessions (20–30 min) are far more effective.

5

Not reviewing wrong answers

Getting a question wrong is the learning opportunity. Always review why, not just what.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q
When should my child start preparing for the 11+?
Ideally in Year 4 or early Year 5. This gives enough time to build foundations without cramming.
Q
How many hours a week should my child study?
3–4 sessions of 20–30 minutes per week is ideal for most children. Consistency matters more than volume. Adjust based on how close the exam is.
Q
What's the difference between CSSE and GL?
CSSE is used by Essex grammar schools (Maths + English). GL is used across many regions and includes Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning.
Q
Are your mock exams free?
Yes — our online mock exams are completely free with instant scoring. No sign-up required.
Q
Does my child need a tutor?
Not necessarily. Many children pass with structured home practice. A good plan and consistent effort matter most.
Q
What if my child struggles with one subject?
Focus extra time on weak areas but don't neglect strengths. Our diagnostic test identifies exactly where to focus.

Ready to Start Your Child's 11+ Journey?

Book a free diagnostic assessment — find out exactly where your child stands and get a personalised study plan.

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