The 11 Plus exam is a significant milestone for many students across the UK, determining their eligibility for grammar schools and selective schools. Given the regional variations in the exam, it is crucial to use study materials tailored to the specific requirements of each area.
This article provides a comprehensive list of recommended resources, ensuring that students are well-prepared for their respective regional 11 Plus exams.
London and the South East
For students in London and the South East, the 11 Plus exam often consists of papers set by individual schools or consortia of schools, such as the Kent Test or the Sutton SET. Recommended study materials include the “Bond 11+ Assessment Papers,” which cover Maths, English, Verbal Reasoning, and Non-Verbal Reasoning.
The “GL Assessment Practice Papers” are also invaluable for students whose target schools use GL, as they help familiarise them with the relevant question styles and test format. Older “CEM 11+ Practice Papers” can still provide useful general skills practice, particularly for vocabulary, reasoning, and working under time pressure. However, CEM withdrew from the paper-based 11 Plus market in 2023, so these materials should not be used as preparation for a current CEM exam.
South West
In the South West, 11 Plus arrangements vary between schools and areas, so parents should check the current admissions information for each target school before choosing preparation materials. CEM (Centre for Evaluation and Monitoring) was previously used for paper-based 11 Plus testing but withdrew from the market in 2023. Schools that formerly used CEM moved to GL Assessment or introduced bespoke entrance tests.
Older resources such as CGP’s “CEM 11+ Range” can still be useful for developing general skills such as verbal reasoning, numerical reasoning, vocabulary, and comprehension. However, they should not be treated as preparation for a current CEM exam.
Similarly, CEM-style materials from The 11+ Company can provide additional general reasoning practice, while the “Letts 11+ Success” series can supplement preparation. Students should prioritise resources that match the current format used by their target school.
Midlands
The Midlands region includes schools and consortia with different 11 Plus arrangements, so parents should check the current admissions information for their target schools before choosing preparation materials. Many use GL Assessment, and useful resources for GL preparation include the “GL Assessment Practice Papers” and the “Bond 11+ Assessment Papers,” which cover a broad range of tested skills.
CEM was previously used in parts of the Midlands but withdrew from the paper-based 11 Plus market in 2023. Schools that formerly used CEM moved to GL Assessment or introduced bespoke entrance tests. Older resources such as the “CEM 11+ Practice Papers” by CGP and the “CEM Style Practice Books” by The 11+ Company can still provide useful general reasoning practice, but they should not be treated as preparation for a current CEM exam.
North
In the North, 11 Plus exam formats vary between schools and areas, so parents should check the current admissions information for their target schools before choosing preparation materials. For schools using GL Assessment, the “GL Assessment Practice Papers” can help students become familiar with the relevant format. Complementary resources include the “Bond 11+ Assessment Papers,” which offer targeted practice in Maths, English, Verbal Reasoning, and Non-Verbal Reasoning.
CEM was previously used for 11 Plus testing but withdrew from the paper-based market in 2023. Schools that formerly used CEM moved to GL Assessment or introduced bespoke entrance tests. Older resources such as the “CEM 11+ Practice Papers” by CGP and the “CEM Style Practice Books” can still be useful for developing general skills such as problem-solving, reasoning, and working under time pressure, but they should not be treated as preparation for a current CEM exam.
East Anglia
East Anglia generally follows the GL Assessment format for the 11 Plus exam. Students should focus on the “GL Assessment Practice Papers” and the “Bond 11+ Assessment Papers,” which provide comprehensive practice in all subject areas.
The “11+ Practice Papers” by Letts are also highly recommended, offering additional exercises and tests to reinforce learning. For those seeking further support, the “Schofield & Sims 11+ Range” offers a wide selection of practice books and revision guides.
Northern Ireland
In Northern Ireland, the 11 Plus exam, known as the Transfer Test, is distinct in its format. The “AQE Practice Papers” by The Transfer Test are specifically designed for the AQE (Association for Quality Education) exam, covering Maths and English comprehensively.
For students taking the PPTC (Post Primary Transfer Consortium) exam, the “GL Assessment Practice Papers” are highly recommended. Additional resources include the “Bond 11+ Assessment Papers” and the “Letts 11+ Success” series, which provide excellent practice and revision opportunities.
Scotland and Wales
Although Scotland and Wales do not have the 11 Plus exam, some independent schools may still use similar entrance tests. For these schools, the “Bond 11+ Assessment Papers” and the “GL Assessment Practice Papers” are suitable resources.
These materials cover a wide range of subjects and provide rigorous practice to help students succeed in their entrance exams.
Summary
By utilising these region-specific study materials, students can ensure they are thoroughly prepared for the 11 Plus exam, enhancing their chances of securing a place in their desired school.
