What is grammar school?
The eleven-plus (11-plus) is an examination administered to some students in England and Northern Ireland in their last year of primary education, which governs admission to grammar schools and other secondary schools which use academic selection. The name derives from the age group for secondary entry: 11–12 years.
What does my child need to know?
There is no uniformity to the exams. Many selective schools still test applicants’ English and maths, just as their parents and grandparents were tested decades ago. Others test verbal reasoning (VR) and/or non-verbal reasoning (NVR) too - a fairer system, many believe, as this is a better indicator of raw intelligence than English/maths tests which can be coached for and which advantage those from private prep schools. VR and NVR cannot really be coached, though practice undoubtedly helps. The raison d’etre of preparatory schools is - as their name demonstrates - to prepare their pupils, help them get into good senior schools - state or independent.
When does it happen?
There is no synchronicity to when the 11+ happens. However, state grammar schools must now give out initial results before the closing date for all secondary school applications in October - so in many cases you need to sign up by July of year 5, and exams often take place in September of year 6.
Even the independents make little effort to synchronise testing and exams happen from November to January in general. However, some independent schools, especially in London, have formed themselves into consortia so that your child sits one exam which is then used as an application to a whole bunch of schools, and most give out their results at the same time – usually in February.
How do we help?
Putting a child through the 11+ is a stressful experience for pupils and parents alike. With most top schools heavily oversubscribed and having to think up ever more stringent entry requirements, the exams are tougher and more competitive than they have ever been.
But don’t worry! Dhyey Tuition is the right place for your child where you will get proper knowledge, consistent homework, regular feedback, individual attention and excellent teaching skills from our tutors.
The course has been divided between four subjects which are:
English (Literacy)
Maths (Numeracy)
Non-verbal Reasoning
Verbal Reasoning