Are calculators allowed in the 11 Plus?

Overview of 11 Plus Exams

The 11 Plus exam, taken by over 100,000 Year 6 pupils annually in the UK, assesses English, maths, verbal reasoning, and non-verbal reasoning to determine grammar school eligibility.

Exam providers set the format. GL Assessment uses four papers with around 60 questions each, lasting 45 to 60 minutes. CEM exams feature two longer papers with adaptive difficulty.

Pass marks use a standardised score of 112 or higher, as seen in 2024 guidelines from official GL Assessment and CEM sources. Major regions include Kent with high test taker numbers, Birmingham, and Bucks.

• Kent: Large-scale testing for Kent Test.
• Birmingham: Competitive Birmingham 11+ process.
• Bucks: Selective Bucks 11+ for grammar places.

Parents check exam board guidelines for county-specific rules. This helps with 11+ preparation and understanding the overall structure.

GL Assessment Format

GL Assessment papers cover core skills separately. Each includes multiple choice questions on 11+ maths, English, verbal reasoning, and non-verbal reasoning.

Timing demands mental arithmetic speed. Pupils practise times tables and calculation skills without aids, aligning with no calculator policy.

Practice with Bond papers or CGP books builds exam technique. Focus on maths syllabus topics like fractions, decimals, and geometry.

Timed test conditions in mock exams reduce stress. This prepares for real test centre rules on permitted equipment like pencils and erasers.

CEM Exam Structure

CEM exams combine subjects into two papers. Longer formats test numerical reasoning alongside verbal and non-verbal skills.

Adaptive difficulty adjusts questions. Strong mental maths handles addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division without calculators.

Emphasise problem solving and reasoning skills. Use pen and paper for written calculations like long division or grid method.

Parents review official syllabus for regions like Trafford or Essex. Mock exams simulate the competitive exam environment.

Regional Variations and Pass Marks

Counties set their own 11 Plus rules. Kent, Birmingham, Bucks, Warwickshire, and London differ in school admissions processes.

A qualifying score like 112 leads to grammar offers. Borderline candidates may join waiting lists or appeals.

Check county specific rules for 2025, including calculator ban. No electronic devices, smartwatches, or digital aids allowed.

Invigilator instructions enforce prohibited items. Focus on traditional methods for success.

General Calculator Policy

All major 11 Plus exam providers prohibit calculators to test pure mathematical reasoning skills. This universal rule applies to GL Assessment, CEM Select, and independent schools. No calculators are permitted in any 11+ maths paper.

GL Assessment guideline 3.2 states: "No calculators or electronic devices of any kind are allowed in the examination room." CEM candidate instructions echo this with: "Electronic calculating devices are not permitted." These rules ensure children rely on mental arithmetic and written methods.

Permitted items include only black pens, pencils, erasers, and rulers. Test centre guidelines from 2024 confirm: "Candidates may bring black pens, HB pencils, erasers, and a ruler no longer than 30cm." Prohibited items like smartphones or watch calculators lead to disqualification.

Parents should check school admissions pages for county specific rules, such as Kent Test or Bucks 11+. Practise with no calculator using Bond papers or CGP books to build speed in times tables and long division.

Standard Rule Across Providers

GL Assessment, CEM Select, and all county consortia explicitly ban calculators in writing: "Electronic calculating devices are not permitted." This calculator policy tests calculation skills without digital aids. Children must master mental maths for the timed 11+ test.

Key regulations include: GL Handbook p.12: "No calculators or electronic devices"; CEM Instructions: "Only pen, pencil, eraser, ruler allowed"; Kent Test Rules: "Calculators confiscated on sight." Similar bans apply to Trafford 11+, Essex 11+, and independent schools.

Permitted stationery covers basic maths equipment:

• Black pens for multiple choice questions
• HB pencils for diagrams in numerical reasoning
• Erasers for corrections in written calculations
• 30cm ruler for geometry and data handling

Banned items include watch-calculators, often resembling slim digital watches with buttons for addition or division. Invigilators check for these at entry. Focus 11+ preparation on traditional methods like grid method or bus stop division to handle exam stress.

Reasons for No Calculators

Banning calculators ensures students demonstrate mental agility required for Key Stage 3 maths, where most Year 7 problems are calculator-free. The 11 Plus calculator rule aligns with exam regulations from providers like GL Assessment and CEM. This policy prepares children for grammar school entrance without digital aids.

11+ maths papers test procedural fluency as outlined in the DfE National Curriculum. Students must show they can perform calculations quickly using traditional methods. Calculators would undermine this core skill in the mathematics paper.

Grammar schools seek fast thinkers, with questions designed for brief solving times. The no calculator ban levels the playing field across county specific rules, such as Birmingham 11+ or Kent Test. It prevents advantages from device familiarity.

The policy stops formula memorisation abuse and standardises testing, avoiding differences between models like Casio or TI. Exam board guidelines ensure fairness in timed tests. Practice papers and mock exams reinforce these 11 Plus rules.

Focus on Mental Arithmetic

11+ maths papers test hundreds of mental calculations per hour, from times tables recall to 3-digit mental multiplication. This builds numerical reasoning for the competitive exam. Students rely on pen and paper for arithmetic operations.

Key mental skills include rapid times tables recall up to 12x12, essential for multiple choice questions. Number bonds to 100 or 200 support addition and subtraction speed. These form the basis of 11+ preparation.

• Estimation: Round numbers to the nearest 10 or 100 for quick checks, as in geometry or data handling problems.
• Approximation: Useful in multi-step questions involving fractions, decimals, or percentages.
• Practice skip counting and column addition to boost accuracy under timed test conditions.

Sample question: If 23×47, what's closest? A:1000 B:1100 C:1200. Solve mentally by approximating 20×50=1000, then adjust for extras: 23×47 is a bit more, so pick B:1100. This exam technique highlights reasoning skills over exact computation.

Maths Paper Specifics

11+ maths papers contain 40-60 questions covering arithmetic (50%), reasoning (30%), and problem-solving (20%), all calculator-free. Standardised scores come from 45-50 core questions. Papers follow strict 11 Plus rules with no calculators allowed under exam regulations.

Time allocation averages 1.2 seconds per mark, pushing mental arithmetic and speed. Real 2024 examples include long division (584÷8), bus stop method (672÷14), and column addition (3×3 digit). CGP 11+ Maths book analysis highlights these as common in CEM exam and GL Assessment formats.

Question distribution emphasises written calculations like times tables and number bonds. Practice with timed test papers builds exam technique. Focus on grammar school entrance needs, matching key stage 2 maths syllabus.

Multiple choice questions appear in some Kent Test or Bucks 11+ papers, but all demand pen-and-paper methods. Mock exams simulate test centre rules, banning prohibited items like electronic devices. Parents check county-specific 11 Plus calculator rule via school admissions info.

Question Types and Tools

Expect pen-and-paper methods only: grid multiplication (23×47), bus stop division (816÷24), column addition across 5 numbers. The 11+ maths paper tests calculation skills without digital aids. Traditional methods align with no calculator policy across Trafford 11+ and others.

Common types include:

• Long division using chunking: For 584÷8, subtract multiples like 73×8=584, quotient 73.
• Grid multiplication (2×3 digit): Draw grid for 23×47, multiply sections, sum totals.
• Column addition with carry over: Add 456+789+123, carry digits upwards.
• Fractions of amounts: Find 3/4 of 96 by dividing 96÷4=24, ×3=72.

More types cover percentage increase/decrease: Raise £50 by 20% as £10 added to £60. Area/perimeter uses formulas, like rectangle 5cm×8cm area 40cm². Mean/median from data sets, ratio sharing divides totals proportionally.

Practice these in CGP books or Bond papers for 11+ preparation. Step-by-step works build accuracy under timed conditions. Match exam day rules with pencils, erasers, rulers as permitted equipment.

Differences by Exam Board

While all ban calculators, GL emphasises traditional arithmetic while CEM prioritises numerical reasoning speed. This core difference shapes how children prepare for the 11 Plus maths paper across regions.

GL Assessment, used in areas like Kent and Bucks, follows a published syllabus drawn from National Curriculum KS2 topics. It focuses on mental arithmetic and written methods, with no aids permitted under strict exam regulations.

CEM, common in Birmingham and Trafford, embeds maths within numerical reasoning tasks. Questions test problem-solving under time pressure, adapting to pupil performance without a fixed list of topics.

GL Assessment Rules

GL Assessment (Bucks, Essex) tests explicit syllabus: 'Mental and written strategies from National Curriculum KS2'. The mathematics paper includes 50 questions in 60 minutes, covering times tables, fractions, and geometry from the official GL Maths Guide.

No calculator skills are tested, as stated in the GL 2024 syllabus: 'No calculator skills tested'. Pupils rely on traditional methods like column addition, bus stop division, and partitioning for accuracy in the timed test.

A sample GL question: What is 456 x 7? Marking rewards expanded methods or vertical algorithms, not shortcuts. Practice with Bond papers or CGP books builds speed for grammar school entrance.

Parents should check county specific rules at test centres, where only pencils, erasers, and rulers count as permitted equipment. Focus 11+ preparation on mental maths drills to master arithmetic operations.

CEM Policy

CEM (Birmingham, Trafford) calculator ban supports pure numerical reasoning with 45 adaptive questions. Without a published syllabus, it stresses problem-solving speed over rote calculation in the 11+ test.

The CEM handbook notes: 'Mathematical processing without aids'. Questions mix verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, and maths, scored adaptively to suit selective schools admissions.

Sample CEM question: Sequence 3, 6, 10, 15,? A:20 B:21 C:22. Pupils spot triangular numbers via pattern recognition, not heavy computation. This tests reasoning skills under exam stress.

Prepare with mock exams emphasising estimation and skip counting. Review invigilator instructions for prohibited items like watches or smartphones, ensuring pen and paper mastery for 11+ tutor sessions.

Preparation Without Calculators

Top scorers practice 20 timed maths papers using Bond Papers 8-11 and CGP 11+ Maths Workouts exclusively. This builds speed and calculation skills essential for the 11+ maths paper. Without calculators allowed under 11 Plus rules, children master mental arithmetic and written methods.

Focus on mental maths daily to handle numerical reasoning and multiple choice questions. Practice covers times tables, fractions, and decimals from the maths syllabus. Parents guide year 5 and year 6 pupils towards grammar school entrance success.

A structured plan ensures steady progress in 11+ preparation. Use traditional methods like pen and paper for addition, subtraction, and division. Simulate exam conditions to reduce stress on test day.

Follow this 7-step preparation plan for effective training without electronic devices. Track improvements to meet pass marks in CEM exam or GL Assessment formats. Resources like Bond papers align with county specific rules such as Birmingham 11+ or Kent Test.

1. 1Daily mental arithmetic for 10 minutes, focusing on tables 1-12 and skip counting.
2. 2Weekly timed mocks using Bond papers to build exam technique.
3. 3Learn 8 key methods like bus stop division, grid multiplication, and column addition.
4. 4Use CGP targeted practice books for fractions, percentages, and geometry.
5. 5Hire an 11+ tutor for 2 hours per week to refine problem solving.
6. 6Track progress with a target of 80% accuracy in practice tests.
7. 7Simulate full exam day rules, using only pencils, erasers, and rulers.

These books support no calculator practice for selective schools. Combine with tutor sessions for personalised feedback. Consistent effort leads to strong performance in the mathematics paper.

Exceptions and Special Cases

99.9% of candidates follow the no-calculator rule in the 11 Plus exam. Rare exceptions require a SEN assessment two terms prior to the test date. Parents must plan ahead to meet these strict exam regulations.

Special circumstances include independent schools, SEN access arrangements, medical exemptions, and county variations. For instance, some independent schools permit basic calculators in their 11+ maths papers, but this varies by institution. Always check the specific school policy during 11+ preparation.

• Independent schools: A small number allow basic calculators for numerical reasoning sections.
• SEN access arrangements: Apply via the local authority for extra time or tools.
• Medical exemptions: Submit a doctor's letter detailing the child's needs.
• County variations: Areas like Trafford enforce the strictest calculator ban.

The approval process timeline demands early submission, often rejected in most cases. Families should contact test providers like GL Assessment or CEM exam boards promptly. Practice mental arithmetic remains key for all candidates under standard 11 Plus rules.

Independent Schools

While state grammar school entrance exams ban calculators, some independent schools make exceptions. These schools may allow basic models for 11+ maths papers focusing on long division or decimals. Review each school's entrance exam guidelines during secondary school transfer planning.

Prepare by checking school admissions websites or contacting admissions offices. If permitted, ensure the calculator meets test centre rules on prohibited items. Emphasise calculation skills like times tables regardless, as mental maths dominates most formats.

This flexibility aids reasoning skills in multiple choice questions, but confirm for 2025 rules. Use practice papers from Bond or CGP to simulate both scenarios. An 11+ tutor can tailor sessions to specific school policy.

SEN Access Arrangements

Children with Special Educational Needs may qualify for calculator use via LA approval. Submit evidence through the local authority well before the 11+ test. This supports mathematics paper challenges like fractions or percentages.

The process involves a formal SEN assessment and application two terms ahead. Invigilators enforce permitted equipment based on approval. Focus on exam technique with tools like pencils and rulers during mock exams.

Parents discuss needs on 11+ forums like Mumsnet threads. Early action prevents exam day rules issues with electronic devices. Build problem solving through speed maths practice.

Medical Exemptions

A doctor's letter can justify a medical exemption for calculators in severe cases. Detail how conditions affect written calculations, such as dyscalculia impacting addition or multiplication. Submit to the exam board per county specific rules.

Timeline requires applications months in advance for review. Rejections are common without strong evidence. Pair this with estimation skills training for timed test resilience.

Examples include Birmingham 11+ or Kent Test processes. Consult your GP early and reference official syllabus. Maintain accuracy via traditional methods like grid method.

County Variations

County specific rules differ, with Trafford 11+ among the strictest on calculators. Areas like Bucks 11+ or Essex 11+ rarely deviate from the ban. Verify 2024 guidelines for your region during Year 5 Year 6 prep.

Contact local test centres for invigilator instructions on digital aids like watch calculators. London 11+ follows standard no-calculator policy. Use pen and paper for arithmetic operations in all cases.

Practice mental maths with number bonds and bus stop method to excel. Track changes via parent guide resources. Strong key stage 2 foundation ensures success despite variations.

Official Confirmation Steps

Email your county's admissions team 6 months before the test date: 'Please confirm calculator policy for 2025 maths paper.' This ensures you get the latest on 11 Plus rules for your area. Policies can change yearly based on exam board guidelines from CEM or GL Assessment.

Follow these five verification steps to confirm if calculators are allowed in the 11+ maths paper. Each step targets official or reliable sources for county specific rules. Start early to avoid last-minute confusion on exam day rules.

1. 1Check the county website for the admissions section, often under 11+ test or grammar school entrance pages. Look for the official syllabus or candidate booklet download.
2. 2Email the admissions office using this sample: Subject: Confirmation of 11+ Calculator Policy 2025. Dear Admissions Team, Please confirm if calculators are permitted for the mathematics paper in the upcoming 11+ exam. Thank you.
3. 3Review the candidate information booklet sent after registration, which details permitted equipment like pencils, erasers, and rulers, plus any prohibited items.
4. 4Call the test centre with this script: Hello, I'm calling about the 11+ exam. Can you confirm the calculator policy for the maths paper? Are electronic devices banned?
5. 5Check the Mumsnet 11+ forum for latest parent experiences, searching threads like 11+ calculator thread for your county's 2025 rules.

Contact details for major counties help streamline your checks. Use them alongside practice with mental arithmetic and timed test papers from Bond or CGP books. This prepares your child for no calculator scenarios common in 11+ preparation.

Major County Contact Details

These details cover state grammar schools in key areas. Always verify for updates on independent schools separately. Combine with mock exams to build calculation skills like times tables and long division.

Response Templates and Next Steps

Expect replies confirming calculator ban in most cases, emphasising mental maths and pen and paper methods. A sample response might read: Calculators are not permitted in the 11+ maths paper. Note any exceptions for multiple choice questions or numerical reasoning.

If unclear, follow up politely. Use insights to focus 11+ tutor sessions on exam technique, fractions, and problem solving. Track invigilator instructions from forums for test centre rules.

Prepare for prohibited items like smartphones or watch calculators. Practice arithmetic operations via SATs-style questions to boost speed and accuracy. This aligns with Key Stage 2 maths mastery for grammar school entrance.