11 Plus Practice Papers

Introduction

If your child is aiming for a grammar school place, you’ve probably come across the 11 Plus exam. It plays a big part in the admissions process for selective schools across the country, and it’s completely normal to feel a bit daunted by it at first. But with the right support and plenty of practice using well-designed 11 plus practice papers, your child can approach the test with much more confidence. At York Maths Tutor, we’ve put together a helpful guide on what the 11 Plus involves and how to find the best resources to prepare.

What Is the 11 Plus Exam?

The 11 plus is an entrance exam used by grammar schools (and some independents) to decide which pupils can join in Year 7. It’s usually sat in September of Year 6, though the exact date will depend on the school and the exam board they use. Since most children only get one chance to sit it, proper preparation is key.

The format of the test can vary by region. Some areas use GL Assessment, others prefer CEM, and a few schools create their own papers. The content might differ slightly, but the key subjects tend to stay the same.

What to Expect in 11 Plus Papers

Most 11 plus papers include a combination of the following:

• English – comprehension, spelling, punctuation, grammar and vocabulary

• Maths – calculations, word problems and general reasoning

• Verbal Reasoning – logic puzzles and code-based language questions

• Non-Verbal Reasoning – pattern spotting and visual sequences

Some schools group subjects together. For example, English and verbal reasoning might appear on one paper, or maths might be paired with non-verbal reasoning. That’s why it helps to use a range of 11 plus practice papers to get used to all the possible question types.

When to Start Using 11 Plus Exam Past Papers

In Year 4 and Year 5, the focus is usually on building a solid foundation in English and maths. Once those basics are in place, it’s a good idea to start using 11 plus exam past papers about six months before the actual test. This helps your child get used to the time limits, spot tricky areas, and feel more relaxed on exam day.

It’s best not to rush into full papers too early. Instead, build skills gradually, then move on to timed mock papers as your child’s confidence grows.

Why Choose MME for 11 Plus Practice?

MME has a great selection of 11 plus practice papers that reflect the style and difficulty of the real exam. They’re clearly laid out, easy to follow, and cover the key subjects your child needs to focus on.

Whether you want single-subject practice, familiarisation booklets, or full mock exams, MME has a wide range of resources. Their materials are available with answers and mark schemes, which makes it much easier for parents to support revision at home.

If you’re looking for trusted 11 plus exam past papers, MME’s resources are a brilliant option. Practising with realistic 11 plus papers can make a big difference to your child’s confidence and performance.

Preparing for the 11 Plus doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With the right tools, encouragement, and a stack of well-written 11 plus practice papers, your child can face the exam feeling ready and well-rehearsed.