What are grammar school entrance exams?
Grammar and independent schools select pupils for Year 7 using entrance exams, usually called the 11+. Each school, or group of schools, decides its own format, so a child may sit different papers for different schools.
Most entrance exams test some combination of four areas. Which ones, and in what format, depends on the school.
- Verbal Reasoning: vocabulary, word logic and comprehension
- Non-Verbal Reasoning: pattern recognition and spatial awareness
- English: comprehension, grammar and creative writing
- Maths: arithmetic, problem-solving and geometry
Which schools do local families aim for?
Families we see aim for schools including Stockport Grammar School, Manchester Grammar School and Withington Girls' School, as well as schools in Trafford and beyond that use CEM or GL assessments.
Always check each school's admissions page for the current test format, registration deadline and test date. These can change from year to year.
When should we start preparing?
Our 11+ course runs from Year 3 to Year 6. Many families start in Year 4 or Year 5, so there is time to build skills before exam practice begins. A free assessment shows where your child is now and how much time they need.
How tuition for grammar schools helps
- A free assessment finds your child's starting level before lessons begin.
- Lessons build Verbal Reasoning, Non-Verbal Reasoning, English and Maths skills in small groups or one-to-one.
- Timed mock exams in the style of Trafford, Manchester and independent school papers show how your child performs under exam conditions, with a detailed performance report.
- Regular practice builds speed and confidence without cramming.
Questions to ask any tuition provider
- Do you assess my child before lessons start?
- Do you run timed mock exams and give a performance report?
- Are the tutors DBS-checked?
- Which centre will my child attend, and what are its registration details?
- Are small groups and one-to-one lessons both available?
