Which schools use the 11 Plus exam?

What is the 11 Plus Exam?

The 11 Plus exam is a selective entrance test taken by students aged 10-11 to gain admission to approximately 163 grammar schools across England and selective independent schools, assessing verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, maths, and English with standardised scores typically requiring 110+ to pass.

This eleven plus test originated with the 1944 Education Act. It aimed to identify pupils for grammar school places based on ability. By the 1960s, over 400 grammar schools used it at its peak.

Today, 163 state grammar schools remain per 2023 DfE data. In 2023, more than 140,000 pupils sat the exam across various regions. Parents often seek 11+ preparation through practice papers and tutors.

Exam formats vary by provider. GL Assessment papers suit 55% of schools with multiple choice questions. CEM Select covers 40% with longer comprehension tasks, while CSSE serves 5% with essay-style elements.

Exam Structure and Pass Marks

The 11+ test typically includes sections on verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, maths 11+, and English 11+. Schools choose from GL Assessment, CEM Select, or CSSE formats. Multiple choice tests dominate in most areas.

Pass marks differ by region. In Kent, pupils need 380 out of 400 raw score. Barnet requires 112+ on standardised scores.

Parents check 11+ syllabus specifics for target schools. Practice with 11+ mock exams and 11+ past papers builds familiarity. Experts recommend regular 11+ practice papers like Bond 11+ or CGP 11+.

Standardised scores adjust for age. A score of 110 often qualifies as the 11+ pass mark. Review school catchment areas and 11+ registration dates early.

Key Regions and Schools Using 11 Plus

Grammar schools cluster in regions like Kent grammar schools, Buckinghamshire grammar schools, and Lincolnshire grammar schools. London areas feature Barnet grammar schools and Sutton grammar schools. Other hotspots include Trafford and Warwickshire.

Examples include Newstead Wood School, Nonsuch High School, and Tiffin School in London. Kent has Tonbridge Grammar School and Weald of Kent Grammar. Buckinghamshire offers Dr Challoner's Grammar School.

• Trafford: Altrincham Grammar School for Girls, Altrincham Grammar School for Boys
• Birmingham: King Edward VI Camp Hill, King Edward VI Five Ways
• Slough: Langley Grammar School, Burnham Grammar School

Check list of 11+ schools for your area. Note 11+ exam dates and application processes vary. Northern Ireland uses the transfer test or PATE exam similarly.

Geographic Regions Using 11 Plus

The 11 Plus exam operates in 36 local authorities across England plus Northern Ireland, with 163 state grammar schools serving 5% of secondary pupils according to 2023 Department for Education statistics. Parents seeking grammar school entrance must check local 11+ regions for specific exam boards like GL Assessment or CEM Select. Preparation involves 11+ practice papers tailored to each area's eleven plus format.

In England, high-density areas include Kent and Buckinghamshire, while Northern Ireland 11+, known as the Transfer Test, uses GL papers for 67 grammars. Families should note 11+ registration dates and 11+ exam dates vary by council. Selective schools often prioritise standardised scores above local averages.

Understanding school catchment areas helps with the 11+ application process. Experts recommend starting 11+ preparation early with resources like Bond 11+ or CGP 11+ books. This guides entry to top UK grammar schools.

Smaller regions like Wirral and Slough also feature 11+ tests, alongside independents in Bristol. Parents can explore list of 11+ schools per area for specifics on verbal reasoning or non-verbal reasoning content.

England

England hosts 163 state grammar schools across 36 local authorities, with highest concentrations in Kent grammar schools (38 schools), London/Trafford (20+), and Buckinghamshire grammar schools (13). These selective secondary schools use exam boards like GL Assessment or CEM for 11+ syllabus covering maths, English, and reasoning. Families target schools such as Dartford Grammar School or Altrincham Grammar School for Girls.

Density peaks in the South East, with Trafford grammar schools and Birmingham grammar schools drawing applicants for multiple choice tests. Use 11+ mock exams to match formats, and review 11+ past papers from GL or CEM Select. Schools like Queen Elizabeth's School Barnet or King Edward VI Grammar set high 11+ pass mark standards.

Preparation tip: Focus on maths 11+ and English 11+ with 11+ tutors or courses. Check 11+ qualifying score per school, as London grammar schools like Tiffin School compete fiercely.

Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland's 11+ equivalent, the Transfer Test, admits students to 67 grammar schools serving 39% of pupils via GL Assessment papers in November annually. It features two papers: Maths with 75 questions in 60 minutes, and English with 65 questions in 60 minutes. Standardised scores average 100, with top grammars requiring 115+ for entry.

For 2024, tests occurred on 4th November, with results on 15 January. Strong performers include Lurgan College and Sullivan Upper. Parents prepare using 11+ sample questions focused on the PATE exam style, now fully GL-based.

• Practice verbal reasoning and comprehension daily.
• Attend 11+ courses or use Bond 11+ resources.
• Track 11+ scores from mocks to aim above local thresholds.

Grammar schools like Loreto Grammar School emphasise consistent performance. Register early via the official portal, and consider transfer test tutors for edge in competitive admissions.

Other UK Regions

Regions outside traditional grammar heartlands include Wirral grammar schools (5 schools, GL Assessment), Slough grammar schools (3 schools, CEM), and Bristol independents using 11+ style tests. Examples are Upton-by-Chester in Wirral, Langley Grammar School and Burnham Grammar School in Slough, plus Reading Boys and Kendrick School in Reading using CEM. These areas offer selective places beyond core zones.

Wales and Scotland phased out the 11 Plus exam in the 1970s and 1960s, focusing on comprehensive systems. Parents in Bristol grammar schools like independents may face similar entrance exams. Preparation mirrors England with CGP 11+ books for reasoning sections.

• Wirral: GL multiple choice, early registration key.
• Slough: CEM format, check Dr Challoner's Grammar School catchment.
• Reading: CEM tests for Royal Grammar School High Wycombe peers.

Independents like Bristol Grammar School adapt 11+ syllabus for private entry. Use 11+ practice papers and mocks to build confidence across these grammar school entrance options.

Types of Schools Requiring 11 Plus

11 Plus exams serve both state grammar schools (163 total, free tuition) and 50+ selective independent schools charging £15,000-£25,000 annual fees.

State grammar schools use the 11+ test for entry into fully funded places, often in regions like Buckinghamshire grammar schools, Kent grammar schools, and London grammar schools. Independent schools pair the eleven plus with interviews or CEM Select tests for their fee-paying spots.

Parents preparing for secondary school admissions should check school catchment areas and 11+ registration dates, as usage varies by area. For example, Trafford grammar schools and Sutton grammar schools rely heavily on GL Assessment papers.

Understanding this split helps with 11+ preparation. State options offer free education for high achievers, while independents provide scholarships alongside 11+ practice papers from Bond 11+ or CGP 11+.

Grammar Schools

State-funded grammar schools (163 total) admit via 11+ with top performers like Queen Elizabeth's Barnet achieving strong GCSE rates.

These UK grammar schools focus on verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, maths 11+, and English 11+ via GL Assessment or CEM. Schools like Newstead Wood School, Nonsuch High School, and Tiffin School draw from competitive 11+ regions.

Reference to 2023 Sutton Trust data highlights grammar school advantage in GCSE grades. Parents target Henrietta Barnett School or St Olave's Grammar School with 11+ mock exams and 11+ tutors for the 11+ pass mark.

Selective Independent Schools

Selective independents like Manchester Grammar School (£16,000/yr) and Withington Girls (£15,500/yr) use 11+ or CEM-style tests alongside interviews.

Over 70% charge £15k+ annually per ISC 2023, covering private schools 11+ entry. Examples include King Edward VI Camp Hill and St Ambrose College, using multiple choice tests in the 11+ syllabus.

Families explore independent schools 11+ with 11+ past papers and 11+ courses. Check 11+ exam dates for schools like Altrincham Grammar School for Girls or Loreto Grammar School, noting standardised scores and 11+ qualifying score.

Key County Guides

Kent (38 grammar schools, largest concentration) and Buckinghamshire (13 schools) represent high-competition 11+ counties with pass rates under 25%.

Parents preparing for the 11 Plus exam often focus on these regions due to the high number of selective schools. Kent uses GL Assessment papers, while Buckinghamshire relies on CEM Select tests. Understanding county-specific details helps with 11+ preparation.

Other areas like Essex, Birmingham, and Trafford also feature UK grammar schools with entrance exams. Families should check 11+ registration dates and practice with 11+ practice papers from providers like Bond 11+ or CGP 11+. Local 11+ mock exams build confidence for real test conditions.

Competition varies by school catchment areas, so early planning for secondary school admissions is key. Experts recommend starting 11+ courses or hiring 11+ tutors a year in advance to cover verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, maths 11+, and English 11+.

Essex and Kent

Kent's 38 grammars (GL Assessment, Sept 21st 2024 test) include Dartford Grammar (cut-off 374/400) and Tonbridge Grammar Girls (368).

These Kent grammar schools attract thousands for the 11+ test. Schools like Dartford Grammar School for boys and Tonbridge Grammar School for girls demand strong scores in multiple choice tests. Parents register early via county portals for the 11+ exam dates.

Essex has 5 grammars under the CSSE board with Feb test dates. Practice 11+ past papers tailored to GL or CSSE formats to master the 11+ syllabus. Schools like Weald of Kent Grammar prioritise high 11+ scores alongside catchment.

Birmingham and Buckinghamshire

Buckinghamshire's 13 CEM-test grammars (Oct 2024) include Dr Challoner's (top choice, 300+ applications/60 places).

Buckinghamshire grammar schools use CEM Select for their eleven plus entry, focusing on standardised scores without heavy verbal reasoning. Popular options like Dr Challoner's Grammar School and Royal Grammar School High Wycombe fill quickly. Check school catchment areas during the 11+ application process.

Birmingham's 8 GL schools, including King Edward VI Grammar (112+ standardised), test in maths 11+ and English 11+. Use 11+ sample questions for CEM and GL to prepare. Families often combine 11+ mock exams with tuition for Birmingham grammar schools success.

Finding Specific School Lists

Use the official 2024 Grammar Schools Guide (163 schools) and ElevenPlusExams.co.uk database for verified lists by county and exam board. These resources help parents identify grammar schools using 11 Plus exams in regions like Kent, Buckinghamshire, and London. They organise schools by 11+ test providers such as GL Assessment and CEM Select.

Start with the DfE Grammar School List Excel for a full download of state grammar schools across the UK. Cross-reference with ElevenPlusExams.co.uk directory to filter by 11+ regions like Trafford grammar schools or Sutton grammar schools. This approach ensures you find accurate details on selective secondary schools and their entrance exams.

For targeted searches, use syntax like 'Kent grammar schools 2025 GL' on search engines. Check the GL Assessment school finder and CEM Select participating schools PDF for exam board specifics. County council admissions portals provide local insights into 11+ registration dates and catchment areas.

Top schools by A-Level results include Queen Elizabeth's School Barnet, Wilson's School, Tiffin School, Newstead Wood School, Nonsuch High School, St Olave's Grammar School, Henrietta Barnett School, Latymer Grammar School, Dartford Grammar School, and Tonbridge Grammar School. These London grammar schools and others often use multiple choice tests in verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, maths 11+, and English 11+.

DfE Grammar School List Excel

The DfE Grammar School List Excel offers a complete overview of all state grammar schools in England. Download it to see schools using 11 Plus sorted by location, ideal for families targeting areas like Kent grammar schools or Lincolnshire grammar schools. It includes key details on secondary school admissions processes.

Combine this with county-specific data for precision. For example, Buckinghamshire grammar schools like Dr Challoner's Grammar School appear clearly. This resource supports 11+ preparation by highlighting grammar school entrance requirements early.

Update your search annually as lists evolve with admissions policies. Experts recommend pairing it with 11+ practice papers from providers like Bond 11+ or CGP 11+. Focus on schools' 11+ syllabus for verbal reasoning and maths 11+.

ElevenPlusExams.co.uk Directory

The ElevenPlusExams.co.uk directory provides a user-friendly database of 11+ schools by county and exam board. It covers UK grammar schools from Warwickshire grammar schools to Wirral grammar schools. Parents can filter for CEM Select or GL Assessment users easily.

Explore forums for insights on 11+ mock exams and pass marks. Schools like Altrincham Grammar School for Girls and Stretford Grammar School feature prominently. This tool aids in understanding standardised scores and qualifying scores.

Use it alongside 11+ tutors or courses for targeted prep. It lists details on 11+ exam dates and application processes for selective schools. Practical for regions like Trafford grammar schools.

GL Assessment School Finder

The GL Assessment school finder pinpoints grammar schools using their 11+ test format. It focuses on areas with multiple choice tests in English 11+ and non-verbal reasoning. Ideal for finding Birmingham grammar schools or Slough grammar schools.

Search for schools like Langley Grammar School or Royal Grammar School High Wycombe. This resource clarifies 11+ sample questions and past papers availability. It supports families planning 11+ courses.

Combine with local portals for catchment details. Experts suggest practising GL-style papers for 11+ scores. Covers schools in Reading and Bristol too.

CEM Select Participating Schools PDF

The CEM Select participating schools PDF lists institutions using this adaptive 11+ exam board. It includes Northern Ireland 11+ options like the transfer test or PATE exam. Useful for independent schools 11+ and state grammar schools.

Spot schools such as King Edward VI Camp Hill or Sutton Coldfield Grammar. Download for details on verbal reasoning and maths sections. Helps with 11+ syllabus alignment.

Review alongside county council admissions portals for dates. Prepares parents for non-standard formats in grammar school entrance.

County Council Admissions Portals

County council admissions portals deliver localised info on 11+ regions. Check for Kent, Worcestershire, or Barnet grammar schools directly. They outline school catchment areas and registration processes.

Examples include portals for Redbridge grammar schools like Beal Grammar School or Woodford County High School. Find exam specifics for schools like Weald of Kent Grammar. Essential for timely 11+ preparation.

Search with terms like 'Lincolnshire grammar schools 11+ dates'. Pair with 11+ past papers for practice. Covers areas like the Wirral and Trafford comprehensively.

Recent Changes in Usage

Since 2018, 11+ testing shifted with CEM dominance (60% schools by 2023) and new regulations banning coaching advantages in Trafford. The 2016 launch of CEM disrupted GL Assessment's lead in grammar school entrance exams. Parents now face choices between CEM Select and GL Assessment formats for 11+ preparation.

In 2021, Trafford introduced a coaching ban to level the playing field for Trafford grammar schools like Altrincham Grammar School for Girls and Altrincham Grammar School for Boys. This aimed to reduce reliance on 11+ tutors and 11+ courses. Families must focus on natural skills in verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, maths 11+, and English 11+.

Barnet raised cut-offs by 5 points in 2023, affecting schools such as Queen Elizabeth's School Barnet and Henrietta Barnett School. Kent expanded to multiple test centres in 2024 for Kent grammar schools like Tonbridge Grammar School and Weald of Kent Grammar. These changes reflect DfE 2023 admissions data and ISC reports showing rising demand.

Grammar places have grown slightly to around 23,000 total, yet competition ratios reached 6:1 nationally. Check 11+ registration dates and 11+ exam dates early for secondary school admissions. Use 11+ practice papers from Bond 11+ or CGP 11+ to adapt to these shifts in selective schools.