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🎓 Grammar School 11+ Exam: What Every Parent Needs to Know
Preparing for the 11+ Grammar School entrance exam can feel overwhelming — especially if this is your first time navigating the process. With limited places and increasing competition, parents often ask:
- “What does the 11+ actually test?”
- “How do I know if my child is on track?”
- “When should we start preparing?”
- “Are mock exams worth it?”
This article aims to answer those questions clearly and practically — so you can support your child with confidence.
🧠 What Exactly Is the 11+ Grammar School Exam?
The 11+ exam is used by selective grammar schools across England to choose students for Year 7 entry. It usually assesses:
- English (Comprehension, Spelling, Grammar, Vocabulary)
- Maths (Arithmetic, Word Problems, Logic)
- Verbal Reasoning (VR) (Word patterns, Logic, Code Breaking)
- Non-Verbal Reasoning (NVR) (Shape patterns, Spatial reasoning)
While not all schools test all subjects, most follow either:
- GL Assessment (used by SW Herts, Kent, etc.)
- CSSE-style (used by Essex grammar schools)
- Independent formats (used by top schools like QE Boys, HBS)
These exams are not just about intelligence — they test speed, accuracy, logic, and endurance.
⏱️ Why Grammar School Exams Are Tougher Than They Seem
Here’s what sets 11+ grammar school exams apart:
Challenge | What It Means for Students |
Strict Time Pressure | 40–60 questions in 45–50 minutes |
Complex Word & Logic Puzzles | Often unfamiliar to children in regular schools |
High Competition | Thousands apply for very few places |
No Room for Error | Even 1–2 questions can affect rankings significantly |
Even confident students can underperform if they’ve never experienced the pressure of the real exam environment.
📊 Why Mock Exams Matter
Mock exams are more than just practice papers — they offer insight, strategy, and experience. Here’s what they provide:
✅ Real-Time Pressure Testing
Your child gets used to working under strict time conditions — improving stamina and focus.
✅ Gap Identification
Mock papers highlight specific weaknesses, from speed to specific topic gaps.
✅ Ranking & Competition Awareness
Percentile scores help gauge how your child compares to the wider cohort.
✅ Builds Confidence & Reduces Anxiety
When exam day comes, it won’t feel like a new experience — just a repeat of what they’ve already done.
📝 Example Breakdown of a Grammar Style Mock Exam Paper
A full-length Grammar-style mock at QSE Learning might include:
- Maths: 50 marks (30 mins)
- English: 50 marks (30 mins)
- Verbal Reasoning: 60 marks (30 mins)
- Non-Verbal Reasoning: 60 marks (30 mins)
Each paper is marked professionally and followed by a detailed feedback report showing:
- Section-wise breakdown
- Percentile rankings
- Timing analysis
- Teacher comments & personalised recommendations
💬 Common Mistakes Students Make in 11+ Exams
- Rushing and Misreading Questions
- Not Checking Answers at the End
- Panicking When Stuck
- Running Out of Time
- Weak Vocabulary or Times Tables
Mock exams are the safest place to make these mistakes, learn from them, and improve
📍 Where to Take High-Quality Grammar School Mock Exams This Summer
At QSE Learning, we run Grammar School Style Mock Exams that replicate real test conditions. Whether your child is aiming for QE Boys, HBS, or Watford Grammar, our mocks help sharpen skills and build exam readiness.
🗓️ Summer Mock Exam Details
- 📅 Every Monday from 28th July to 25th August
- 🕘 Choose from 9:00 AM or 1:30 PM sessions
- 📍 QSE Learning, 10 Oxford Road, HA3 7RG (Harrow, Wealdstone)
Our papers follow GL/CSSE formats and are built by specialist tutors with deep knowledge of the exam boards.
🏆 Our Track Record Speaks for Itself
We’re proud of our success in helping children reach the UK’s top grammar schools:
✅ 394 students placed into South West Herts Consortium grammar schools
✅ 198 students placed into Queen Elizabeth’s School (QE Boys)
✅ 127 students into Henrietta Barnett School (HBS)
Our students consistently outperform peers from private prep schools across London — because we combine rigorous training with expert strategy.
📈 What You’ll Receive After Each Mock
After each QSE mock exam, you’ll receive a detailed report including:
- 🎯 Breakdown by subject and section
- 📉 Comparison with cohort averages
- 🧩 Strengths and topic gaps
- 🕐 Timing and time management analysis
- 📝 Teacher feedback and recommended next steps
Parents tell us this is one of the most valuable tools they receive during their child’s 11+ journey.
✨ Final Thoughts
The 11+ journey is not just about cramming or finishing a workbook. It’s about mastery, exam readiness, and mental resilience.
Mock exams — when designed and delivered properly — can make the difference between being close to passing and securing a top spot.
If you’re serious about giving your child the best possible chance at success…
🎓 QSE Learning is here to help.
✅ How to Book a Mock Exam with QSE
Limited spaces available each Monday. Book now to avoid disappointment:
📞 07484 548920
✉️ admissions@qselearning.com
📍 10 Oxford Road, Harrow, HA3 7RG
🌐 www.qselearning.com
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