Clear-headed guides for every stage — from “should we?” to “how do we start?” Built on real parent experiences and real data.
Have a question we haven't answered? — your question might become our next guide.
Suggested Reading Order
Follow the trail, or jump to whichever stage fits you
Everything you need to know about the eleven-plus — who takes it, what it tests, how it works, and what it costs to prepare. An honest, complete overview for parents.
Before you spend £2,000 on tutoring, ask these five questions. An honest framework for parents deciding whether the 11+ exam is the right path.
The short answer: they do brilliantly. Real stories, real data, and practical guidance for families navigating this outcome.
Practical, age-appropriate language for every stage — from first conversations to results day. Grounded in child wellbeing guidance.
Is Year 5 too late? Is Year 3 too early? An honest timeline based on exam board, school competitiveness, and your child's readiness.
Kent has the largest number of grammar schools in England, with 32 schools accepting children via the Kent Test. The test is administered by GL Assessment and taken in September of Year 6.
Sutton is home to five of England's most competitive grammar schools. The Sutton & District Testing Consortium runs a shared entrance exam, meaning children sit one test that counts for all five schools. These are super-selective schools with very high qualifying scores.
Buckinghamshire has 13 grammar schools that use the shared Bucks 11+ test. The exam is administered by GL Assessment and covers Verbal Reasoning and Non-Verbal Reasoning — notably, it does not include separate Maths or English papers.
More regional guides coming soon — including Birmingham, Essex, and Lincolnshire. In the meantime, browse our full school directory.