When Should Your Child Start With an 11+ Tutor?

The question every parent asks - and the honest answer

If you've started researching the 11+, you've probably already wondered: am I too early? Too late? Is my child ready?

The truth is, there's no single right answer, but there is a sweet spot. And understanding the timeline can make all the difference between a stressed last-minute push and a confident, well-prepared child on exam day.

What is the 11+, and when does it happen?

The 11+ is the entrance exam used by grammar schools and many independent schools across the UK. In London, most exams take place in September - October of Year 6, meaning the preparation window is shorter than many parents realise.

In London and the South East, the most widely used format for grammar school entry is the GL Assessment, covering English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning (VR) and Non-Verbal Reasoning (NVR). Independent schools vary, many use the ISEB Common Pre-Test, others set their own entrance exams entirely. It's always worth checking directly with your target schools so preparation is focused in the right areas. A good 11+ tutor will also help you navigate which format your child needs to prepare for.

At Educo London, we assess each child individually and build strong foundational knowledge across all the key areas, so they're well prepared whatever exam format they face.

Each of these subject areas requires both knowledge and exam technique and that takes time to build properly.

The ideal starting point: Year 4 to early Year 5

Starting in Year 4 or the beginning of Year 5 gives children the best foundation. Here's why:

• There's no pressure - children can learn at a steady, enjoyable pace

• Gaps in core Maths and English can be identified and filled early

• Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning (which aren't taught in school) take time to become second nature

• Confidence builds gradually, which is just as important as academic ability

  
  

At this stage, the focus doesn't need to be intense. One weekly 90-minute session - covering core subjects and introducing reasoning skills - gives children a structured, manageable start without any pressure.

Starting in Year 5: still great timing

Year 5 is actually the most common starting point, and for good reason. Children are mature enough to focus, the exam is still 12+ months away, and there's plenty of time to build both skills and stamina.

A structured programme in Year 5 should include:

• Regular practice across all four subject areas

• Timed exercises to build speed and accuracy

• Mock exams in the lead-up to the real thing

• Feedback that helps children understand mistakes, not just correct them

  
  

This is exactly how we structure our small-group 11+ sessions at Educo London, so students grow at the right pace without burning out.

Starting in Year 6: it's not too late, but act fast

If your child is already in Year 6, don't panic - but do act quickly. With exams typically in September or October, you have weeks, not months.

At this stage, the priority is:

• Identifying which areas need the most work

• Focusing on past papers and exam technique

• Building confidence under timed conditions

• NVR and VR drilling, as these respond well to focused short-term practice

  
  

Intensive support works, but it needs to start immediately.

Signs your child is ready to begin

Signs Your Child Is Ready for an 11+ Tutor

You don't need to wait for a specific date. Look out for these signs:

✅ They're settled in Key Stage 2 and reading regularly

✅ They're curious, even if not always confident

✅ They're able to sit and focus for short periods

✅ You've identified the schools you're targeting

What about starting in Year 3 or early Year 4?

Some families choose to begin in Year 3 or early Year 4, and for many children, this works really well. Starting earlier means there's no rush, no pressure, and plenty of time to build familiarity with the material gradually.

For children who thrive with routine and like to feel thoroughly prepared, an early start can do wonders for confidence. It also allows more time to explore reasoning skills - Verbal and Non-Verbal - that aren't taught in the school curriculum, so they feel completely natural by the time the exam comes around.

Every child is different. Some settle into structured learning early and genuinely enjoy it; others benefit from starting a little later when they're more focused and the exam feels more relevant to them. The right time is really about the individual child, their personality, their learning style and how they respond to structured sessions.

Not sure where your child stands? Start with an assessment.

Every child comes to us at a different stage, and that's absolutely fine. Whether they're in Year 3 building early foundations or in Year 6 with exams on the horizon, we'll meet them where they are.

Our free trial session is a great first step. We'll assess your child across the key areas, give you a clear picture of where they are and what they need, and help you decide on the right level of support going forward.

To book a free trial session, call or message us on +44 (0) 7309 486 647 — we'll assess your child and help you understand exactly what support they need.