Introduction
If your child is aiming for a grammar school place, chances are you’ve heard about the 11 plus exam. It’s a big part of the admissions process for many selective schools, and while it can feel like a lot to take in, the right preparation can make all the difference. At Manchester Tutor Company, we help families through the process and recommend using high-quality 11 plus practice papers to support your child’s success.
What Is the 11 plus Exam?
The 11 plus is an entrance exam usually taken in September of Year 6, though the exact date can vary depending on the school or local area. It’s used by grammar schools and some independent schools to help decide who gets a place in Year 7.
There are different versions of the exam depending on the provider. GL Assessment and CEM are the most commonly used exam boards, though some schools write their own tests. While formats vary, the core subjects stay largely the same.
What to Expect in 11 plus papers
Most 11 plus papers include questions in the following areas:
- English – comprehension, grammar, vocabulary and spelling
- Maths – number work, reasoning and multi-step problems
- Verbal reasoning – language-based logic and code-style patterns
- Non-verbal reasoning – visual sequences, shapes and spatial awareness
Some exams combine subjects into a single paper. For instance, English and verbal reasoning may be tested together, or maths with non-verbal reasoning. This is why using a variety of 11 plus practice papers helps your child get familiar with all the possible formats.
When Should You Use 11 plus exam past papers?
We recommend starting with skill-building in Year 4 and early Year 5. Then, around six months before the test, 11 plus exam past papers can be introduced to work on timing, confidence and exam technique.
It’s best not to begin with full papers too soon. Start with short, focused exercises and gradually build up to complete timed tests as your child becomes more comfortable.
Why Use MME for 11 plus Practice?
MME offers an excellent range of 11 plus practice papers that reflect the style and difficulty of the real exam. The papers are clearly structured, easy to follow and cover all the key subjects.
Whether you’re looking for full mock exams, topic-specific practice or familiarisation papers, MME has something to suit. Each pack includes answers and mark schemes, making it easy for parents to track progress and identify any areas that need improvement.
If you’re searching for reliable 11 plus exam past papers, MME is a great place to start. Practising with accurate and realistic 11 plus papers helps build the skills and confidence your child needs to perform well on the day.
At Manchester Tutor Company, we know how important the 11 plus is to many families. With expert support and regular practice using the right 11 plus practice papers, your child can face the exam feeling ready and confident.