Is my child right for grammar school? Questions every parent asks

If you have a child in Year 3 or Year 4 and grammar school has started appearing on your radar, you are probably asking yourself the same questions most parents ask at this stage.

Is my child clever enough? Will the pressure be too much? How do I even know if it is worth trying?

Here is what I tell parents honestly, having prepared children for the 11+ since 2020.

Grammar school is not just for the top 1% of children. It is for children who are curious, who enjoy a challenge, and who, with the right preparation, can demonstrate their ability on the day. Many children who pass would not have passed without preparation. Many children who do not sit would have sailed through with a bit of support.

The 11+ tests four areas: Verbal Reasoning, Non-Verbal Reasoning, Maths, and English. None of these is beyond a bright, motivated Year 5 child. But most of them, especially Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning, are not taught in primary school. Children need to learn the format before they can perform in it.

The best thing you can do at this stage is not panic, not start drilling your child with practice papers, and not write it off before you have explored it. Have a conversation with someone who knows the exam and can give you an honest assessment of where your child is and what is realistic.

That conversation is free with me. No pressure, no obligation, just a straightforward chat.

📞 07523 434161 | tom@tomsandersontutoring.com