The 11 Plus exam is a selective admissions test used by grammar schools and some selective state schools across the UK. At Explore Learning, we prepare children for commonly assessed skills, including English, maths, verbal and non-verbal reasoning. Because exam content varies by area and school, your child’s plan is tailored to the exact conditions they’ll face in their specific test.

Grammar schools are state-funded secondary schools that select pupils based on academic ability, rather than catchment area alone, using the 11 Plus exam as their main entry requirement. Because places are competitive, grammar school admissions typically involve sitting one or more tests in English, Maths, verbal reasoning and non-verbal reasoning, alongside completing a formal application through your local authority or the school itself.

Effective grammar school preparation isn't just about memorising facts; it's about building the exam technique, time management and problem-solving skills needed to perform confidently under test conditions. Starting early with structured grammar school test practice helps children build the confidence and resilience they'll need for both the grammar school entrance process and the more demanding pace of learning at a selective school.

Explore Learning can help; we’ll talk through your child's target schools and choose a plan tailored to their grammar school exam.

The 11 Plus is the entrance exam used by many grammar schools and some selective state schools, although the format varies by region. Independent schools set their own entrance exams and admissions processes, which can differ from school to school and may assess different subjects or skills. If your child is applying to an independent school rather than a grammar school, visit our entrance exam tuition page to learn more about the support we offer.

Children can join our 11 Plus programmes at any time from Years 3 to 6. Our 11+ foundation course starts for children in Year 3 and focuses on building concrete maths and English skills. For children in Year 4, our 11 Plus tuition introduces exam content and problem-solving skills. Once children are in Year 5, we develop advanced knowledge, speed and accuracy to achieve exam success. In Year 6, we support students after their exams with the transition to secondary school.

We believe that a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach isn’t sufficient for 11 Plus tuition. Therefore, we design our curriculum to align with the unique requirements of the schools in your area. This will ensure that your child studies precisely what they need to.

If your child is preparing for exams set by CEM, GL Assessment or an even more tailored board, we have it covered. Our 11 Plus tutors will dive deep into the exam board, ensuring they highlight and emphasise the exact subjects and topics your child should focus on. With this personalised approach, we aim to build your child’s confidence and readiness, ensuring they have the best foundation for 11 Plus exam success and a bright academic future.

Find your grammar school’s exam requirements.

Getting started is easy:

• Book a free trial online at your nearest centre.

• During the trial, we’ll assess your child’s current skills and discuss their target schools.

• We’ll create a personalised 11 Plus learning plan tailored to their needs and the exam boards they’ll face.

• Your child can then begin weekly sessions, either in-centre or online.

• Support will be provided by our expert tutors, along with access to unlimited practice resources.

Take the first step today by booking your free trial. For a detailed step-by-step guide, visit our How It Works page.