Grammar Schools are state-funded secondary schools; many parents aspire for their child to attend one due to the excellent quality of education they provide. The 11 Plus exams assess your child’s eligibility for a place in a Grammar School. The admission process has many levels.
In our comprehensive blog, we have explained in a quick, easy and straightforward way everything parents should know about Grammar School admissions.
How to Apply for the Grammar School Near You?
Getting into Grammar School is not an overnight process; your child has to go through several key steps. The following is a detailed breakdown:
Research Early
Search Grammar Schools near you. Give a hard look at their admissions criteria, exam format, and catchment area rules.
Register for the Entrance Exam
Register your child for the 11 Plus exams. Registration deadlines vary for each school.
Attend Open Days
It is advisable to visit the Grammar Schools you have shortlisted for your child during open days. It familiarises you with their policies and environment.
Step 4: Take the 11 Plus Exam
It’s the time for your child to sit the 11 Plus exams, taken by Grammar Schools to determine your child’s eligibility. Help them with the 11 Plus exam preparation for grammar school admission, ensuring they feel confident and well-prepared for the exam.
Step 5: Submit School Preferences
Submit your child’s Grammar School application. Mention your child’s Grammar School preferences on the application.
Key Stages and Deadlines:
Here are the key dates that you should not miss:
- September (Year 6): Students take 11 Plus exams in September of Year 6. Dates vary for each school, so keep an eye on your local authority or Grammar School website.
- October (Year 6): Results are declared in October, and it’s time for students to submit their school preference forms.
- March (Year 7 entry): Official offers are made, and appeals begin soon after.
What is the 11 Plus Exam for Grammar School Entry?
Grammar Schools take 11 Plus exams to assess the eligibility of your child for a place in Year 6. The 11 Plus exams included questions from the following key subjects:
- Verbal reasoning
- Non-verbal reasoning
- Maths
- English
11 Plus Exam Boards:
- GL Assessment
- CEM
How to Effectively Prepare Your Child for the 11 Plus Exam?
The following tips will help you prepare your child for the 11 Plus exam, ensuring they secure a place in a Grammar School.
Practice Regularly
Practice plays a key role in preparing your child for success in the 11 Plus exams. Your child should dedicate at least an hour to practice every day because it:
- Builds Confidence
- Strengthens exam strategies and techniques
- Boosts exam preparation and revision
- Helps overcome exam anxiety
Start Preparation Early
It is highly beneficial for your child to start the preparation for the 11 Plus exam early. The more time they have, the better they will be able to prepare. Years 3 and 4 are the best years to begin the exam preparation.
Students who start preparation early can comprehensively cover the entire curriculum, master exam techniques, and practice extensively. These things give your child a significant edge.
Make Preparation Engaging
Many children do not concentrate on exam preparation because they find it boring. Make exam learning fun and engaging for them so stay attentive and prepare for the exams in the best possible way. Some of the best resources to make exam preparation engaging are:
- Flashcards
- Colourful Notes
- Videos
- Mobile Apps
Practice Past Papers
When it comes to 11 Plus exam revision, past papers are unarguably one of the best resources. They stand out because they:
- Give your child an overview of the exam questions.
- Familiarise with the exam format.
- Help overcome the anxiety of the exam.
After the 11 Plus Exam: Results, Appeals, and Alternatives
The 11 Plus exam results come out in October. If your child has passed the exams, the next stage is waiting for National Offer Day in March to see if they’ve been allocated a place.
If your child doesn’t receive an offer from their preferred school, they are left with the following two options:
- Appeal the decision: This involves applying to an independent panel, where you discuss why your child should’ve been granted a place in Year 6 in Grammar School.
- Consider alternatives: Many excellent non-selective schools offer outstanding education and opportunities. Your child can also take 12 and 13 Plus exams to secure a place in Year 8 or 9 in a Grammar or independent school.
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Conclusion
Grammar school admission process feels challenging, but with the proper planning, preparation, and guidance, your child can succeed in the 11 Plus exam and secure a place at their preferred school. By following the steps outlined in our blog, you can make the process manageable and even enjoyable.