When Should I Start Preparing For Grammar School

A timeline of when to start preparing for the 11+ exam, start visiting grammar schools and applying for a place.

Joy Learning

Year 4 - make a decision

At this stage you should decide if you want your child to attend a grammar school. This gives you enough time to research the school you want your child to go to and also start developing their Maths, English and Reasoning skills required to meet the entry requirements of your chosen grammar school. Passing an Eleven Plus exam is required for the selection process.

Year 5 - Start visiting grammar schools

By now you should start visiting the schools you are considering. Attend open days and ask questions to have an understanding of if the school's values and attitude towards education and children matches up with your own. Will your child be supported and will they be in an environment that nurtures them in the best way for their success.

Start an action plan

By now you need to start preparing your child for the Eleven Plus common entrance exam. Research how the exam will work and how to apply. Key dates and deadlines are specific for the school you want to attend. Have a conversation with your child's school regarding their suitability for the exam. Find out where they are with their literacy and numeracy and support them to improve it.

Consider an eleven plus tutor to prepare your child for the eleven plus exam. The sooner this is in place the better as training also needs time for practice. The tutor should be able to offer guidance on best exam techniques, identify areas of weakness, help to improve speed and timing and generally provide an advantage for passing the exam.

Year 6 - exam day

Most eleven plus exams are taken between September and October of year 6. Results will be released before you need to apply for your chosen grammar school through a Common Application Form. If your child has passed the eleven plus exam, you will be able to list your chosen grammar schools in order of preference.