The 11 Plus Exam Boards by Region
The 11 Plus exam varies considerably across different regions in England. This variation is primarily due to the different 11 Plus exam boards that administer the test, each with its own specifications and focus areas. Understanding which exam boards operate in which regions and their unique features is crucial for parents and students preparing for this exam.
The CEM (Centre for Evaluation and Monitoring) Board
One of the predominant 11 Plus exam boards is the CEM, developed by the University of Durham. The CEM exam is known for its aim to reduce predictability and minimise coaching by presenting a wide variety of test papers.
It focuses on assessing a child’s aptitude in verbal and non-verbal reasoning, and numerical reasoning. The verbal reasoning tests comprehension, vocabulary, and grammar, while quantitative reasoning covers a range of maths skills. The non-verbal reasoning section assesses spatial awareness and pattern recognition.
CEM exams are particularly popular in regions like Birmingham, Warwickshire, and Gloucestershire. These regions have adopted the CEM exam to ensure a fairer assessment that reflects a child’s innate abilities rather than their capacity for intensive preparation. The CEM board is continuously evolving its question formats, making it a dynamic and somewhat unpredictable choice for the 11 Plus exam.
The GL Assessment Board
Another major player in the 11 Plus landscape is the GL Assessment board. GL entrance exams are more traditional and have been around for a longer period. They cover four main areas: English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning, and Non-Verbal Reasoning.
Unlike the CEM exams, the GL exam format is more structured and predictable, with a clearer outline of question types and skills tested.
Regions such as Kent, Buckinghamshire, and parts of Lancashire predominantly use the GL Assessment Board. Many schools in these areas appreciate the clarity and consistency that GL exams offer, making it easier to help your child prepare with more focused study materials and practice tests.
The GL board provides a range of official preparation materials, practice papers, and mock tests, allowing students to familiarise themselves with the real exam format well in advance.
The Consortium of Selective Schools in Essex (CSSE)
In Essex, the 11 Plus exam is governed by the CSSE exam board. The CSSE exam papers have a unique format, focusing heavily on English and mathematics.
The English paper includes comprehension, applied reasoning, and writing, while the mathematics paper covers the Key Stage 2 syllabus extensively, often including challenging problem-solving skills that require a deep understanding of concepts.
The CSSE exam is designed to align closely with the national curriculum, ensuring that students are tested on their school-taught knowledge and skills. This alignment helps reduce the need for external tutoring, as students can prepare effectively through their regular schoolwork.
The Independent Schools Examination Board (ISEB)
For students aiming to enter independent schools and private schools, the ISEB Common Entrance exam is a significant pathway. While not strictly an 11 Plus exam, it serves a similar purpose for entry into private schools.
The ISEB exam covers a broader range of subjects for the 11 Plus, including English, mathematics, science, and humanities. The format is comprehensive, aiming to assess a student’s overall academic ability and readiness for the rigorous curriculum of independent schools.
The ISEB exam is widely used across various regions, particularly in areas with a high concentration of independent schools, such as Surrey, Sussex, and parts of London.
Regional Variations and Considerations
While the aforementioned exam boards are the primary ones, it is important to note that some regions might use bespoke examinations or a combination of different exam boards. For example, some areas in Greater Manchester use a mix of CEM and GL formats, providing a hybrid approach that leverages the strengths of both boards.
Parents and students should also be aware of the specific requirements and formats of the 11 Plus exams in their region. Detailed information can usually be found on the respective school or local education authority’s website.
Additionally, understanding the historical performance and feedback from previous years can provide valuable insights into the preparation strategies that work best for each exam board.
What Exam Boards Are Used For the 11+?
Each exam board has its unique approach, focusing on different skill sets and types of questions, making it important for parents and students to understand which boards are used in their region and what each entails.
The CEM (Centre for Evaluation and Monitoring), developed by the University of Durham, is widely used in regions such as Birmingham, Warwickshire, and Gloucestershire. The CEM exam aims to reduce predictability and minimise the advantages of intensive coaching by presenting a diverse range of question types and practice papers.
It primarily assesses a student’s reasoning (verbal and non-verbal), and quantitative reasoning skills. The verbal reasoning style questions include comprehension, vocabulary, and grammar, while the numerical reasoning covers a range of mathematical concepts. The non-verbal reasoning section tests spatial awareness and pattern recognition. This exam is designed to evaluate a child’s innate abilities and aptitude rather than their capacity for rote learning.
Another prominent examination board is GL Assessment, which has been a traditional choice for many regions including Kent, Buckinghamshire, and parts of Lancashire. The GL is more structured and predictable compared to CEM, with a clear outline of question types and formats.
It covers four main areas: English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning, and Non-Verbal. The predictability of GL assessment exams allows for more focused preparation, and there are ample study materials and past papers available for students to practice. This structured approach will help your child become familiar with the types of questions one will encounter on grammar school exams.
In Essex, the 11+ exam is administered by the CSSE (Consortium of Selective Schools in Essex). The CSSE exam places a strong emphasis on English and mathematics. The English paper includes comprehension, applied reasoning, and creative writing, while the mathematics paper extensively covers the Key Stage 2 syllabus, often including challenging problems that require a deep understanding of concepts.
The CSSE exam is closely aligned with the nation’s curriculum, ensuring that students are tested on their school-taught knowledge and problem-solving skills. This alignment reduces the need for extensive external tutoring, as students can effectively prepare through their regular schoolwork.
For those aiming to enter independent schools, the ISEB Common Entrance exam is a significant pathway. Although not strictly an 11 Plus exam, it serves a similar purpose for entry into private secondary schools. The ISEB exam covers a broader range of subjects, including English, mathematics, science, and humanities. It is designed to assess a student’s overall academic ability and readiness for the rigorous curriculum of independent schools.
Additionally, some regions might use bespoke examinations or a combination of different boards. For instance, parts of Greater Manchester use a mix of CEM and GL formats, providing a hybrid approach that leverages the strengths of both boards.
Parents and students should check with local education authorities or target schools to understand the specific requirements and formats of the 11 Plus exams in their area. Understanding the different examination boards and their unique characteristics is crucial for effective preparation, helping students perform their best in this important academic milestone.
Are There Different 11+ Exams?
Yes, there are different 11 Plus exams, and their format can vary depending on the exam boards and region. The primary exam boards administering the 11+ exam include CEM (Centre for Evaluation and Monitoring), GL Assessment, CSSE (Consortium of Selective Schools in Essex), and ISEB.
These variations mean that students and parents need to be aware of which exam is used in their region and tailor their child’s preparation accordingly — may it be for entering a grammar or independent school.
What is the Difference Between CEM and GL 11+?
The CEM and GL 11 Plus exams differ significantly in their approach and content. The CEM (Centre for Evaluation and Monitoring) exam is known for its focus on reducing predictability and coaching advantages by presenting a variety of question types.
It assesses reasoning (verbal and non-verbal), and quantitative reasoning, often using questions that are less familiar to students, which aims to measure a child’s ability and innate aptitude rather than learned knowledge. The CEM has a mixed exam format varying from a written answer format and multiple choice. Sometimes, it’s also similar to an IQ test.
In contrast, the GL exam is a common pre-test that is more structured and predictable. It covers the verbal and non-verbal reasoning test, quantitative reasoning (maths), and English, with a clear outline of question types and formats. This structure allows for more targeted preparation, with students able to familiarise themselves with specific question formats through practice materials and past papers. It makes use of a multiple-choice format.
Overall, while CEM emphasises reducing coaching impacts through diverse question styles, GL provides a more consistent and predictable framework for assessment.
Is Kent Grammar School 11+ GL or CEM?
The Kent test is administered by the GL board. The 11 Plus exam here includes sections on verbal and non-verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning (maths), and English, and is known for its structured and predictable format.
What Exam Boards Do Grammar Schools Use?
Grammar schools may use different exam boards for the 11+ exam depending on their location. Common exam boards include GL Assessment, CEM (Centre for Evaluation and Monitoring), and CSSE (Consortium of Selective Schools in Essex).
The specific board used varies by region or grammar school, so it’s important to check with individual schools or local education authorities for the exact details.
What is the Selective Eligibility Test (SET)?
The Selective Eligibility Test (SET) is an entrance exam used by some selective schools, including Wallington High School for Girls, to assess candidates for admission. It typically includes tests on reasoning (verbal and non-verbal) and mathematics.
The SET is designed to evaluate a student’s academic potential and suitability for a selective education, and its format may vary slightly from one school to another.
Do All 11+ Exams Have a Verbal Reasoning Section?
No, not all 11 Plus exams have a verbal reasoning skills section. While many exams, such as those administered by GL Assessment and CEM, include it, others, like the CSSE exam, may focus more on English and math skills.
Summary
The 11 Plus exam landscape is diverse, with various boards catering to different regions and educational philosophies. Understanding the unique specifications of each board and preparing accordingly can significantly enhance a student’s chances of success, paving the way for a smooth transition to the independent or grammar school of choice.
Knowing the boards will also make it easier to determine the mock tests and practice tests your child must be answering in preparation for the 11 Plus. Additionally, it pays to know the format it will be in — multiple-choice, written, or a mix of both.
Do take a look if these boards or centres your child is in offer free papers. These free papers are often given to all major 11+ exam boards.
