Introduction
If your child is preparing for grammar school entry, you’ve probably heard about the 11 plus exam. It plays a big part in how selective schools decide who gets offered a place, and while it can seem a little overwhelming at first, the right support and preparation can make a huge difference. At Bradford Tutor Company, we guide families through the process and recommend using reliable 11 plus practice papers to help children feel confident and well-prepared.
What Is the 11 plus Exam?
The 11 plus is an entrance exam usually taken in September of Year 6, although the exact timing depends on the school or region. It’s used by grammar schools and some independent schools as part of their admissions process for Year 7 entry.
Different areas use different exam boards. GL Assessment and CEM are the most widely used, but some schools create their own exams. The format may vary slightly, but the main subjects tend to stay the same.
What’s Included in 11 plus papers?
Most 11 plus papers are designed to test your child in the following areas:
- English – including comprehension, vocabulary, grammar and spelling
- Maths – arithmetic, problem-solving and reasoning questions
- Verbal reasoning – language-based logic, codes and sequences
- Non-verbal reasoning – visual patterns, shapes and spatial awareness
Some papers may combine subjects. For example, verbal reasoning might appear alongside English, or maths might be paired with non-verbal reasoning. That’s why working through a variety of 11 plus practice papers is so useful, it helps children get used to the range of formats they might face.
When Should You Start Using 11 plus exam past papers?
The best approach is to start building strong subject knowledge in Year 4 and Year 5. As the exam approaches, usually around six months beforehand, 11 plus exam past papers can be introduced to develop timing and test technique.
It’s a good idea not to jump straight into full-length papers. Begin with shorter activities and build up gradually to longer, timed papers once your child feels more confident.
Why Choose MME for 11 plus Practice?
MME offers a fantastic selection of 11 plus practice papers that are closely matched to the style and difficulty of real exams. They are clearly presented, easy to use, and suitable for both GL and CEM formats.
Whether you’re looking for subject-specific packs, full mock exams or familiarisation papers, MME has plenty of options. Every paper includes mark schemes and answers, so it’s easy for parents to track progress and identify areas that need more attention.
If you’re looking for trusted 11 plus exam past papers, MME is a great place to begin. Regular practice with well-designed 11 plus papers can really boost your child’s chances of success.
At Bradford Tutor Company, we understand how important the 11 plus journey is for families. With structured practice and the right 11 plus practice papers, your child can feel well-prepared and ready to tackle the exam with confidence.