11+ parent guides by year group
Wherever you are in the journey, here’s exactly what to focus on — without the panic. Pick your child’s year group for a practical roadmap.
11+ Preparation in Year 3
Year 3 is far too early to "do 11+ papers", but it is the perfect time to build the foundations that make later preparation easy: a love of reading, strong number sense and curiosity. The goal is habits, not cramming.
Read the guideYear 411+ Preparation in Year 4
Year 4 is the ideal time to begin structured preparation. There is enough runway to cover topics thoroughly without pressure, leaving Year 5 free for timed practice. Start with the basics and introduce reasoning gently.
Read the guideYear 511+ Preparation in Year 5
Year 5 is the most important year of the 11+ journey. Registration deadlines fall this year, and preparation shifts from learning topics to applying them at speed. By the end of Year 5 your child should be comfortable with full, timed papers.
Read the guideYear 611+ Preparation in Year 6
For most areas the 11+ is sat in September of Year 6, so the work is largely done by the time school starts. This year is about polishing technique, managing logistics and keeping your child calm and confident.
Read the guideSee exactly where your child stands — free.
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