For families in Swindon, the 11+ can feel like the most important exam of their child's life. Competition for grammar school places in Wiltshire is intense, and the students who succeed are almost always those who've prepared thoroughly. Our specialists provide focused, long-term preparation covering every component of the test.
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 Swindon 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 Swindon 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.
Learning to Learn
The aim of tutoring is not dependence — it is independence. Working with Swindon learners always includes helping them develop effective study habits: how to plan a revision timetable, how to use active recall instead of passive re-reading, how to break large tasks into manageable steps. These meta-skills are as valuable as the subject knowledge itself, and they serve pupils long after tutoring ends.
For Parents and Carers
Families know their children better than anyone. That insight is valuable — and we use it. At the start, we ask parents to share their observations: which subjects cause stress, when homework becomes a battle, what has worked or not worked before. Throughout the process, regular updates ensure families in Swindon always have a clear picture of progress and next steps.
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 Wiltshire, the specific format depends on which grammar school your pupil is targeting. Our specialists in Swindon know these formats and prepare students accordingly — whether it's the GL Assessment, CEM, or a school-specific paper.
If your pupil is preparing for the 11+ in Swindon, 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.