The 11+ exam can be a major milestone in a child’s academic journey, and for many parents, it can also be a time of uncertainty and stress. Whether you're aiming for grammar schools or top independent day schools and boarding schools, your support and guidance can make a huge difference. This guide offers practical, proven tips to help parents guide their children through the 11+ journey with confidence.
A-Tutors.com is a new platform for online tutoring with integrated whiteboard and recording built in. Some of our tutors have over 15–20 years of experience preparing students for the 11+ entrance exams to grammar schools and leading independent day and boarding schools. With the growing number of families relocating from the UK to Dubai and other global hubs, our tutors are increasingly supporting students aiming for the top British schools overseas as well.
A-Tutors prepares students for some of the most competitive schools — including City of London Boys and Girls, St. Paul’s School, and Eton. Westminster School, traditionally a boys’ school situated in the heart of Westminster, will, for the first time, be admitting girls in 2026. The ISEB online assessments for the first round of its 11+ assessments will begin in November 2025, followed by the written assessment in January 2026 for those that qualify. Children who pass the Westminster 11+ will start Year 7 in September 2026.
It’s important to monitor each school’s 11+ admissions pages for registration deadlines, school tour dates, and the full exam timeline. Some schools, such as Westminster, Henrietta Barnett and St. Paul’s Girls, have a two-round exam process. We advise creating a spreadsheet for the schools you’re applying to, listing registration deadlines, exam dates, and subjects being assessed.
Understanding the structure of the 11+ is essential for effective preparation. The exam generally assesses English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning, and Non-Verbal Reasoning, though specific content varies by school. Parents should familiarise themselves with the different exam boards such as GL, CEM, and ISEB. It's also important to stay up to date with registration deadlines, tour dates, and exam timetables listed on each school's admissions page.
Starting preparation early allows for a gradual and less stressful lead-up to the exams. Aim to begin by Year 4 or early Year 5. Use consistent study routines without overwhelming your child. Holiday periods, especially the long summer break, should balance rest with structured revision to maintain momentum without burnout.
Choosing the right materials is just as important as the study plan itself. A blend of books, past papers, and interactive tools keeps learning dynamic. A good tutor can offer structure and suggest resources tailored to specific schools. For instance, the 11+ Consortium schools—a group of 14 academic girls' schools in London (including Channing School, Queen's College, and South Hampstead High School)—use an online test. Students may take the test at any of the 14 schools.
Many parents subscribe to Atom Learning and Bond Online to help prepare for the format of 11+ online testing. In fact, some schools actually use Atom Learning to run their 11+ tests.
Strong exam technique can often be the deciding factor between good and great performance. Regular timed practice builds confidence and speed. Teach strategies like circling tricky questions to return to later and double-reading instructions. Encourage your child to show their working, especially in maths, to gain method marks and to help when reviewing their answers.
Keeping your child motivated and emotionally grounded is just as important as academic preparation. Praise their effort, not just the results, and build breaks into their schedule. If your child is doing a lot of extracurricular activities, consider reducing to twice per week in the final run-up to the exams. Downtime is important for effective learning and will only help your child to flourish.
Being available to listen and talk with your child throughout their 11+ journey helps them feel supported. Encourage open conversations about their progress and challenges. Regular check-ins with their school can also provide insight and help you make informed decisions on school choices.
Not all families have the time or expertise to manage 11+ preparation alone. That’s where professional tutors can make a meaningful difference. Choose tutors with proven experience of preparing students for your target 11+ schools. A-Tutors works with seasoned educators who offer specialist subject knowledge and tailored strategies.
Tip from Mark Taylor, Principal at Hampstead & Frognal Tutors:
"Whilst there are some excellent tutors offering the full package — English, Maths, and Reasoning — they may be in short supply. Therefore, it may be worth casting the net wider to find two or even three tutors who specialise in different areas. Some families hire one tutor just for creative writing, another for comprehension, and a third maths specialist for the quantitative element.”
Preparing for the 11+ is a journey that you and your child take together. With the right balance of structure, encouragement, and professional support, it can be a positive and empowering experience. A-Tutors is here to help every step of the way.
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