The 11+ exam is one of the most competitive tests a child will face, and in Lincolnshire — where grammar school places are highly sought after — preparation is essential. Our teaching team in Grimsby 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 Grimsby students, this investment in core skills pays dividends throughout their education.
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 Lincolnshire, the specific format depends on which grammar school your child is targeting. Our teaching team in Grimsby know these formats and prepare students accordingly — whether it's the GL Assessment, CEM, or a school-specific paper.
For Parents and Carers
Tutoring works best when there is clear communication between the tutor, the learner, and the family. In Grimsby, we encourage parents to share what they observe at home — frustration with homework, avoidance of certain topics, comments about lessons. This context helps the tutor target the right areas. We also keep families informed of what is covered each week, so there is never any guesswork about whether things are on track.
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 Grimsby 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.
If your child is preparing for the 11+ in Grimsby, write to 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.