By: Dr Artin Backtash-Rad
Edurium’s founder, director and chief educator
The 11 Plus exam is a crucial milestone for many students in England, often determining entry into selective grammar schools or independent schools. Preparing effectively can make all the difference, but with the right strategies and support, your child can face the challenge with confidence.
At Edurium, we specialise in 11 Plus tuition in London, helping ambitious students achieve success through structured teaching, expert tutors, and proven learning methods. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to prepare for the 11 Plus.
Step 1: Understand the 11 Plus Format
The first step is to know what your child will face. Depending on the school or local authority, the 11 Plus exam usually includes:
- English – reading comprehension, grammar, vocabulary.
- Maths – arithmetic, problem-solving, reasoning.
- Verbal Reasoning – logic, language puzzles.
- Non-Verbal Reasoning – shapes, sequences, spatial awareness.
Not every child will be tested in all four areas, but English and Maths are always core.
Step 2: Build a Strong Foundation Early
Preparation should ideally start at least a year in advance. Focus on:
- Daily reading to improve comprehension and vocabulary.
- Regular practice in maths basics (fractions, decimals, percentages).
- Puzzles and logic games to develop reasoning skills.
The aim is to create consistent habits, not last-minute cramming.
Step 3: Use Revision Strategies That Work
Effective 11 Plus preparation is about quality, not just quantity. Encourage your child to:
- Break study time into short, focused sessions (30–45 minutes).
- Mix subjects daily to keep the brain active.
- Use past exam questions to become familiar with wording and formats.
- Track progress and revisit weaker areas regularly.
At Edurium, our tutors tailor revision strategies to each child’s strengths and weaknesses, ensuring every session counts.
Step 4: Practise with Mock Tests
Mock exams are essential because they:
- Simulate real exam conditions.
- Teach time management.
- Reduce anxiety by making the format familiar.
We recommend doing a full practice paper every few weeks, increasing frequency closer to the exam. At Edurium, students sit regular mock tests under timed conditions, giving them the confidence to perform under pressure.
Step 5: Get the Right Support
While some children can prepare independently, many benefit from structured tuition. A professional tutor can:
- Identify gaps in knowledge.
- Teach exam techniques.
- Provide regular feedback and motivation.
At Edurium, we offer:
- Small group 11 Plus tuition (1 tutor : 5–6 students) for collaborative learning.
- One-to-one tuition for highly personalised support.
- A free entry assessment to identify whether your child is ready and which areas need focus.
Our tutors are either professional educators or students from top UK universities, and our track record speaks for itself — many of our students go on to grammar schools, independent schools, and later to Oxford, Cambridge, or other Russell Group universities.
Step 6: Maintain Balance and Confidence
Finally, remember that exam success is not just about academics. Ensure your child:
- Gets enough sleep and exercise.
- Takes breaks from study to relax.
- Feels supported and encouraged.
A confident, well-rested child performs far better than one under pressure.
