This is one of the most common questions I get from parents—and it’s a very valid one. The 11 Plus exam can feel daunting, and as a parent, you want to be sure your child isn’t just *trying*, but truly *ready*. So how can you tell?
Here are some key signs your child may be ready for the 11 Plus:
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1. They’re Scoring Well in Practice Papers.
If your child is consistently scoring around *75 -85% or higher** in *GL-style practice papers* (under timed conditions), this is a strong sign they’re on track. If they’re below that, don’t panic—there’s still time to improve with the right plan.
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2. They Can Work Under Time Pressure
Readiness isn’t just about knowledge—it’s about speed and accuracy A child might know how to solve problems, but can they do it quickly? The 11 Plus is a timed exam, so being able to -manage their time and stay calm under pressure is key.
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3. They’re Confident with Core KS2 Maths & English
The exam often stretches beyond the school curriculum, but your child should have solid skills in:
– **Maths**: Fractions, percentages, long division, word problems.
– English -Comprehension, vocabulary, grammar, spelling.
If these are shaky, it’s best to work on them consistently before test day.
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4.They’ve Been Exposed to All 11+ Question Types
Has your child practiced **verbal and non-verbal reasoning** (if required by your exam board)? Have they seen a variety of comprehension texts or different types of maths puzzles? Familiarity brings confidence.
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5. They’re Mentally and Emotionally Prepared
The 11 Plus journey can be intense. Is your child:
-Motivated (even a little)?
– Able to take feedback and learn from mistakes?
– Resilient – when things get tough?
If the pressure is causing distress, take a step back. It’s better to nurture confidence and curiosity than to push too hard.
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6. They’ve Sat a Mock Exam
A mock exam is a great way to assess readiness. It simulates the real experience and helps you identify gaps. If your child can handle a mock confidently and apply what they’ve learned, it’s a strong sign they’re nearly ready.
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Final Thoughts:
No child is ever 100% ready, and that’s okay. Readiness is a combination of – academic ability, test strategy, and mindset. With the right support, most children can make huge progress—even in the final months.
If you’re unsure where your child stands, consider getting a mock test done or speaking to an experienced 11+ tutor (like me!) for a personalised assessment.
Thanks for reading
Please share your thoughts in the comment below.
Ms Olu
Positive Parenting With Olu 