The 11+ exam is one of the most competitive tests a child will face, and in Buckinghamshire — where grammar school places are highly sought after — preparation is essential. Educators on our team in Amersham help students prepare for the verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, maths, and English components with structured, progressive sessions that build real capability, not just exam tricks.
Beyond the Test
11+ preparation develops skills that benefit students far beyond the exam itself. The logical thinking, vocabulary range, and mathematical fluency they build during preparation serve them well at secondary school — whether they attend a grammar school or not. For Amersham students, this investment in core skills pays dividends throughout their education.
When to Start
We recommend beginning 11+ preparation in Year 4, giving 12-18 months before the exam in early Year 6. This timeline allows skills to develop naturally rather than through last-minute cramming. For Amersham families starting later, we can still help — an intensive programme in the final six months can make a significant difference, though earlier is always better.
One-to-One Learning
In a classroom of 30, a teacher cannot pause to check whether each pupil truly understands. A tutor working individually with a learner in Amersham can. Every question is answered, every misconception corrected on the spot, and the pace adapts to the pupil — not the timetable. Families across Buckinghamshire consistently find that regular, focused personal teaching produces faster and more durable progress than group revision classes or self-study alone.
What the 11+ Tests
Most 11+ exams include some combination of verbal reasoning (vocabulary, logic, word patterns), non-verbal reasoning (spatial awareness, pattern recognition), maths (above curriculum level), and English comprehension. In Buckinghamshire, the specific format depends on which grammar school your young person is targeting. Educators on our team in Amersham know these formats and prepare students accordingly — whether it's the GL Assessment, CEM, or a school-specific paper.
If your young person is preparing for the 11+ in Amersham, contact us for a diagnostic assessment. We'll identify where they stand, what they need to work on, and build a preparation plan that gives them the best possible chance.