The 11 Plus exam is a selective entrance test used by grammar schools across England to identify academically able students. For families in Hounslow, Isleworth, and West London, understanding this exam is the first step towards giving your child the best chance of success.
When Should You Start Preparing?
Most education experts recommend beginning 11 Plus preparation in Year 4, giving your child roughly 12 to 18 months of structured practice before the exam in early Year 6. Starting early avoids last-minute pressure and allows your child to build skills gradually and confidently.
What Does the 11 Plus Cover?
The 11 Plus typically tests four core areas:
- Maths: Arithmetic, fractions, decimals, percentages, algebra basics, geometry, and word problems beyond the standard Year 5 curriculum.
- English: Reading comprehension, vocabulary, spelling, grammar, and creative or persuasive writing under timed conditions.
- Verbal Reasoning: Logic-based questions involving word patterns, codes, sequences, and analogies that test critical thinking ability.
- Non-Verbal Reasoning: Pattern recognition, spatial awareness, and shape-based puzzles that assess problem-solving without relying on language skills.
How to Prepare Effectively
Consistent, structured practice is far more effective than cramming. Use a combination of timed practice papers, topic-specific workbooks, and regular review sessions. Focus on building speed and accuracy, as the 11 Plus is a time-pressured exam where every minute counts.
Encourage wide reading to improve vocabulary and comprehension naturally. Discuss what your child reads at home — this builds the analytical skills needed for both English and Verbal Reasoning sections.
Common Mistakes Parents Make
Over-pressuring your child is the most common pitfall. The 11 Plus should be challenging but manageable. Other mistakes include starting too late, relying solely on practice papers without teaching underlying concepts, and neglecting Non-Verbal Reasoning, which many families underestimate.
Getting Professional Support in Hounslow
A structured 11 Plus preparation programme can make a significant difference. At LittleTutorHouse, our tutors in Hounslow and Isleworth provide targeted 11 Plus tuition that covers all four exam areas. Our tutors have been through selective processes themselves and understand exactly what examiners expect. We focus on building genuine understanding, not just exam technique, so your child develops skills that serve them well beyond the test.