Common Entrance Exam (11+) Preparation | Online Tutoring for Private Schools & Grammar Schools

What Is the Common Entrance Exam (11+)?

The Common Entrance Exam (11+), overseen by the ISEB (Independent Schools Examinations Board), is a selective entrance assessment used by many independent schools in the UK and internationally. It is typically taken in Year 6 for entry into senior schools.

Some grammar schools also use an 11+ exam for selective entry, usually following either the GL or CEM exam formats.

What Is the Common Entrance Exam (11+)?

Some grammar schools also use an 11+ exam for selective entry, usually following either the GL or CEM exam formats.

Subjects Commonly Tested

English – comprehension, grammar, creative writing
Mathematics – number fluency, problem-solving, applied reasoning
Science – biology, chemistry, and physics foundations

For Grammar School 11+ (GL/CEM)

English – comprehension, vocabulary, grammar
Mathematics – arithmetic, reasoning, applied problems
Verbal Reasoning – logic and language-based reasoning
Non-Verbal Reasoning – shapes, patterns, and spatial reasoning

(Each school chooses the exact mix. Always check your chosen school’s admissions guidance.)

Why Students Struggle with 11+ Exams

Wide curriculum coverage across multiple subjects
Reasoning papers (Verbal & Non-Verbal) often unfamiliar in schoolwork
Timing pressure across several papers
Exam anxiety can lower performance on the day

How LearningClubs Supports Common Entrance (11+)

We provide 1-to-1 live online tutoring tailored to the format your child will face — ISEB Common Entrance or grammar school 11+.

Our Approach

Strengthen English, Maths, Science (ISEB) or Reasoning skills (GL/CEM)
Practise with past papers and timed mock tests
Teach exam strategies: structuring answers, time management, accuracy under pressure
Begin every lesson with 5-breaths mindfulness → helping children reduce stress and focus fully

Why Guided Preparation Matters

Entrance exams are highly competitive — some grammar schools receive thousands of applications for a handful of places. Starting preparation early (ideally in Year 5) gives children time to develop skills gradually and avoid last-minute panic.

Balance matters. Over-tutoring can cause stress and burnout. At LearningClubs, we combine rigorous subject teaching with mindfulness and wellbeing strategies so students grow in both confidence and resilience.

Assessment & Tuition Costs

Assessment: 2-2.5 hours

Review of school reports, subject/skills diagnostics, written report, and parent consultation: 3-4 hours
Cost: £499

Tuition

£84 per 60-minute 1-to-1 lesson
+ £11.41/month for resources

Why Parents Choose LearningClubs

Personalised 1-to-1 online tuition matched to ISEB or GL/CEM formats
Experienced UK tutors who understand selective admissions
A calm, confidence-building approach with mindfulness at the core
Proven success in helping children gain places at selective schools

Parent FAQs about the Common Entrance (11+)

Q: What subjects are tested in the 11+ Common Entrance exam?
A: For ISEB Common Entrance (11+), the core subjects are English, Mathematics, and Science. For grammar school 11+ exams (GL/CEM), the focus is usually English, Maths, Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning.

Q: When is the exam taken, and what formats are used?
A: The Common Entrance (11+) is taken in Year 6. Grammar schools usually follow GL (separate subject papers) or CEM (integrated, mixed-question papers).

Q: Are verbal or non-verbal reasoning included?
A: Yes, in most grammar school 11+ exams. They test logical thinking, patterns,
and problem-solving. ISEB Common Entrance does not normally include reasoning, but schools may add their own reasoning papers.

Q: What’s the difference between GL and CEM formats?
A: GL → separate, predictable multiple-choice subject papers.
CEM → blended, less predictable, with mixed multiple-choice + short answers.

Q: When should we begin preparation?
A: Ideally 6–12 months before the exam. This ensures skills and confidence are built gradually.