11+ Grammar School Preparation

Our one-to-one 11+ tuition supports children preparing for grammar and selective school entrance examinations across the UK.

There is no single 11+ examination. Schools and consortiums use different assessment providers, question styles and combinations of English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning and Non-Verbal Reasoning. We therefore prepare your child for the requirements of the schools they are actually applying to, rather than working through a generic 11+ programme.

In 2026, we supported children preparing for schools including Lancaster Royal Grammar School, Lancaster Girls’ Grammar School, Clitheroe Royal Grammar School, Bacup & Rawtenstall Grammar School and selective schools across Manchester and Trafford, as well as schools elsewhere in the country.

Preparing for the Right Test

Some selective schools use GL Assessment, while others use FSCE, and the content and style of the papers can vary considerably.

We begin by looking at the schools you are considering and the relevant entrance requirements. Preparation can then be shaped around the right balance of English, Maths and reasoning skills for your child.

As entrance arrangements can change, we always work from the current requirements of the intended schools.

Strong Foundations First

Good 11+ preparation begins with strong English and Maths.

Before focusing heavily on speed and practice papers, our tutors identify any gaps in areas such as comprehension, vocabulary, spelling, arithmetic, fractions, problem solving and mathematical reasoning.

Where Verbal or Non-Verbal Reasoning forms part of the entrance test, these skills are introduced carefully and practised strategically.

We want children to understand how to approach a problem rather than simply memorise techniques.

Building Confidence for the Examination

Most grammar school entrance examinations take place in September of Year 6, although exact dates vary by school and consortium. This means much of the preparation takes place during Year 5.

One-to-one tuition allows us to introduce timed work gradually. As the examination approaches, lessons become increasingly focused on accuracy, pace, question selection and familiarity with the appropriate test format.

The aim is for your child to arrive at the examination knowing what to expect and feeling properly prepared, without allowing the 11+ to dominate their final years of primary school.

When Should 11+ Preparation Begin?

There is no single starting point that suits every child.

Some children benefit from beginning in Year 4 with a stronger focus on English and Maths foundations. Others begin more formal 11+ preparation during Year 5.

We consider your child’s current level, confidence and intended schools before deciding what preparation is appropriate.