The 11+ examination is one of the most significant academic milestones in your child's education. In Redbridge and the surrounding area, selective grammar schools remain highly sought-after, and competition for places is fierce.
Which Schools Are We Talking About?
From Redbridge, children commonly apply to Ilford County High School for Boys, Woodford County High School for Girls, Valentines High School (partially selective), and independent selective schools such as Bancroft's.
What Sort of Paper Will They Sit?
Most selective schools now use GL Assessment papers, which test Verbal Reasoning, Non-Verbal Reasoning, Mathematics and English as separate papers in a fairly predictable format. Some schools, including independents such as Bancroft's, set their own papers instead. There is no published syllabus for these, so preparation means working through the school's past papers and questions in the same style. It is worth checking directly with each school you are applying to, as arrangements do change.
When Should You Start?
This catches a lot of families out: the exam is sat in mid-September of Year 6, only a couple of weeks into the school year. That makes Year 4 and Year 5 the preparation years, not Year 6.
Year 4 is the ideal starting point, giving a relaxed two-year run. Year 5 is the most important phase and the latest sensible point to begin, since it is the last full year before the exam. If your child is already in Year 6, the exam is only weeks away.
What Does Preparation Involve?
- Verbal Reasoning: word patterns, letter codes, analogies, vocabulary
- Non-Verbal Reasoning: spatial patterns, matrices, sequences
- Mathematics: speed and accuracy on arithmetic plus problem-solving
- English: comprehension, vocabulary, grammar and creative writing
- Timed practice: the 11+ is as much about speed as accuracy
Ready to Start Your Child's 11+ Journey?
Book a free assessment and let us build a preparation plan tailored to your child, plus your first two sessions are free.