Initial Sounds - s, a, t, p, i, n Writing Practise
£1.39
Year 5 11 plus, 2026
Year 5 11 plus preparation 2026
Most grammar schools test in early September. Real preparation happens across Year 5 and the summer that follows. Twenty minutes a day from April 2026 covers verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, arithmetic and English comprehension.
Get 15% off Year 5 11 plus prep packs
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Worksheets to start with
Phonics - ie, y, igh, i-e Words
£1.39
Phonics - ow Words
£1.29
Phonics - ay, ai, a-e Words
£1.39
Phonics - ow, oa, o-e Words
£1.39
Tens and Ones - Numbers to 20
£1.39
Tangram - Shape Pictures
£1.29
Short Division htu 1
£1.29
Why prep for the 11 plus in Year 5?
Most grammar schools test in early September of Year 6. That gives families a short summer window to consolidate, after months of build-up. Real preparation runs through Year 5: introducing reasoning skills, building reading vocabulary, and stretching arithmetic beyond what school covers.
When should Year 5 11 plus prep start in 2026?
April 2026 is the natural start point. Term three of Year 5 leaves time to introduce verbal and non-verbal reasoning gently before the summer holidays, then use the summer for focused practice ahead of the September tests.
How should I structure 11 plus prep at home?
Twenty minutes a day across four subject areas: arithmetic, English comprehension, verbal reasoning and non-verbal reasoning. Most weeks, three sessions of arithmetic and English, one of verbal reasoning, one of non-verbal. Our Year 5 packs cover the core skills the test leans on.
Frequently asked questions
When does the 11 plus take place?
Most state grammar schools test in early September. Independent schools usually test in January. Dates vary by region.
How early should we start 11 plus preparation?
Most families introduce reasoning skills in April of Year 5 and ramp up through the summer. Children doing very well at school often need 12 to 16 weeks of focused prep before the test.
What subjects are tested in the 11 plus?
Most regions test English, maths, verbal reasoning and non-verbal reasoning. Some grammar areas use only two of those, so check the format for your local school.
Is verbal reasoning taught at school?
No. Verbal and non-verbal reasoning are 11 plus skills that schools do not teach. Children meet them only if families introduce them at home.
Can I do 11 plus prep alongside SATs prep?
In Year 5, yes. SATs revision proper happens in Year 6. By starting reasoning in Year 5 you give your child the skill set without crowding out SATs work in Year 6.