The 11+ exam is one of the most competitive tests a child will face, and in Kent — where grammar school places are highly sought after — preparation is essential. Our teaching team in Herne Bay 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 Herne Bay 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 Kent, the specific format depends on which grammar school your son or daughter is targeting. Our teaching team in Herne Bay know these formats and prepare students accordingly — whether it's the GL Assessment, CEM, or a school-specific paper.
Building Good Study Habits
Effective studying is a skill that many pupils were never explicitly taught. A good tutor does not just explain the subject — they model how to approach unfamiliar material, how to self-test, and how to manage time during revision. For Herne Bay learners, these habits compound over time, meaning the benefit of focused teaching extends well beyond the immediate grades.
A Note for Parents
Tutoring works best when there is clear communication between the tutor, the learner, and the family. In Herne Bay, 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 Herne Bay 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 son or daughter is preparing for the 11+ in Herne Bay, drop us a line 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.