At AMBER, we appreciate how difficult it is sometimes to parent. We are faced with many life changing decisions, sometimes on a daily basis and we often spend hours wondering if we have made the right decision when it comes to our children!

Choosing your child's secondary school can be an extremely stressful experience for some and has the effect of changing your child's future massively. Approaching the end of the summer holidays can sometimes leave parents down, knowing that your child is another year older and if your child is starting school in either year 5 or year 6, secondary schools will definitely be playing heavily on your mind.

For many years now, the Asian community has been drawn towards selective schooling for their secondary aged children. According to the Department for Education’s School Census, Asian children make up almost 20% of the selective school system in England and this number is growing each year. Here is the approximate break down below of Asian children at selective schooling below:

Indian: 8.2% Pakistani: 3.8%
Bangladeshi: 1.0%
Any other Asian background: 4.3%
Chinese: 1.6%

What are selective Schools:

Here’s a visual glimpse of grammar schools across England, illustrating their concentration in certain regions and isolated clusters elsewhere.

In the context of the UK, selective schools typically refer to grammar schools—state-funded secondary schools that admit students based on academic performance, usually via the 11-plus exam. They are most common in specific areas of England and Northern Ireland; there are no selective state schools in Scotland or Wales.

What is the 11-Plus Exam?

The 11-plus is an admissions test taken by children in their final year of primary school (Year 6), generally encompassing:

Verbal reasoning
Non-verbal reasoning
English
Maths

What to do if choose to apply for a selective school:

1. Explore and Research Schools (Year 5)

Start early by ordering prospectuses, attending open days, and reviewing school performance, pastoral care, facilities, and Ofsted reports.
Check catchment areas—some grammar schools use them in admissions. If applying outside your area, contact the school to check if different testing dates apply.

2. Register for the 11‑Plus Exam (Year 5–Year 6)

Registration typically opens in April–May, and deadlines generally fall between June and October, depending on the region. 
Each grammar school sets its own process. Some operate via a consortium allowing a single application for multiple schools; others require separate forms. 
Supplementary Information Forms (SIFs) may also apply—especially for faith-based or oversubscribed schools to collect extra details (e.g., residency proof, religious attendance).

3. Take the 11‑Plus Exam (September, Year 6)

The exam is usually held in early September in primary schools or designated centres.
Subjects tested vary by area, such as:

Verbal Reasoning,
Non-Verbal Reasoning,
Maths,
English
For instance, Kent includes all four; Essex includes Verbal Reasoning, Maths, and English; Bexley uses only Maths and Verbal Reasoning.

Timing for each paper is typically 45 minutes to an hour.

4. Receive Results (October) & Submit Your School Preferences

Results are generally released in mid‑October. 
With your child’s score, complete the Common Application Form (CAF)—listing grammar and comprehensive school preferences—by 31st October.

Backing up your application with at least one local comprehensive school is vital in case your child doesn’t make it into a grammar school.

5. School Offers Arrive (National Offer Day: March 1)

School allocations are typically communicated on 1st March, known as National Offer Day.

6. Next Steps if You Don't Get In

Appeals are an option if your child is not admitted to their preferred grammar school:
Begin by discussing with the headteacher—if they provide supporting evidence (e.g., attitude, academic potential), you may get a stronger case. 
Each local authority has its own appeal timetable and process.

Consider alternatives: Good comprehensive schools, faith-based or academies can offer high-quality education pathways.

Preparing Early: Tips for Parents

Start prep 12–18 months ahead—build a routine with daily practice and regular mock exams to track progress
Use trusted materials like Bond 11+, CGP, Schofield & Sims, and online platforms such as Atom Learning or EdPlace. 
Tutoring is common but costly. Around 30% of children aged 11–16 have private tutors. Costs range from £45 to £150 per hour, though platforms like Atom Learning offer more affordable options. The Times
Keep learning fun—use games, reading and light practice. Parents on forums suggest balancing prep with calm reinforcement. Reddit

Example Timeline (for Year 5 → Year 6 child aiming for entry in 2025):

Timeframe:

Year 5 (Spring–Summer)
Begin research, attend open days, shortlist grammar schools
April–May (Yr 5/6)
Register for 11‑Plus exams to preferred grammar schools
Summer Term (Year 5)
Begin preparation with practice materials, reading and light mocks
September (Year 6)
Child sits the 11‑Plus exam
Mid‑October
Receive exam results
By 31 October
Submit CAF with your school preferences
1 March (Year 6)
Receive allocation on National Offer Day

Post‑Offer

Accept offer or prepare for appeal if needed

Final Thoughts for parents:

The 11‑Plus/ selective schooling process involves early planning, strategic preparation, and awareness of deadlines. Starting in Year 5 and keeping on top of application and exam details makes a big difference in navigating the journey with confidence and will also make the process much easier. Nevertheless, 11 plus preparations are not for the faint hearted for the child or their parents; it will require dedication, time and sacrifices along the way, which at times will feel overwhelming. If it is something you and your child want, perseverance and maintaining a positive outlook are vital.

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