Introduction
At Manchester Tutor Company, we know how important the 11 Plus can be for families planning ahead for grammar or selective school entry. It’s a big step, but with the right support and access to high-quality 11 plus exam papers, your child can prepare with confidence.
In this guide, we’ll explain what the 11 Plus exam involves, what subjects it typically covers, and where to find helpful resources such as 11 plus papers and free 11 plus exam past papers to support your child’s preparation.
What is the 11 Plus Exam?
The 11 Plus is an entrance exam usually taken at the start of Year 6. It’s used by grammar schools and some independent schools to assess academic ability and determine school placements. Most pupils take the exam in September, although this can vary by region and school.
Some schools use test papers created by GL Assessment, one of the main providers across the UK. Others may choose to write their own. Because the format is not the same everywhere, it’s important to check exactly what your chosen schools require so your child can focus on the right topics.
What’s Included in 11 Plus Exam Papers?
While the content and structure of the exam can vary, most 11 plus exam papers include a combination of the following subject areas:
- Verbal Reasoning
This section tests how well your child can understand and work with language. It may involve solving logic puzzles with words, completing sentences, or recognising patterns between words. - Non-Verbal Reasoning
These questions are based on shapes and visual logic. Children are often asked to spot sequences, complete patterns, or identify the odd one out. - English
English sections usually focus on reading comprehension, spelling, punctuation and grammar. In some exams, children may also be asked to complete a short piece of writing. - Mathematics
Maths questions are based on Key Stage 2 learning and cover topics such as number operations, fractions, measurement and worded problems. These are usually timed, so developing speed as well as accuracy is important.
Because different schools and regions have different requirements, practising with the right 11 plus papers is essential for effective preparation.
Where to Find 11 Plus Papers and Extra Support
One of the best ways to prepare for the exam is to work through realistic practice materials. Using 11 plus exam past papers helps children get used to the types of questions they’ll see and boosts their confidence.
We recommend checking out the MME 11 Plus page for a wide range of resources. These include mock exams, subject-specific revision, and practice papers for both GL Assessment and school-specific formats.
Final Thoughts
The 11 Plus can be a challenge, but with the right tools and guidance, your child will be in a strong position to succeed. Practising with the right 11 plus exam papers makes a big difference in how prepared and confident they feel on the day.
To explore a full set of 11 plus papers and download free 11 plus exam past papers, head over to MME’s 11 Plus resources.
If you’re looking for local support and one-to-one tuition in Manchester, get in touch with Manchester Tutor Company. We’re here to help your child achieve their best.