Birmingham King Edward VI 11+ Exam Preparation

The King Edward VI (KEEVI) Foundation operates a group of selective grammar schools in Birmingham, offering academically focused education. Entry to these schools is highly competitive and determined by performance in the 11+ examination.

The schools in the King Edward VI Foundation include King Edward VI Aston School, King Edward VI Camp Hill School for Boys, King Edward VI Camp Hill School for Girls, King Edward VI Five Ways School, Handsworth Grammar School (part of the Foundation for admissions processes), and King Edward VI Handsworth Wood Girls' Academy (also part of the Foundation for admissions processes).

Birmingham (King Edward VI) 11+ at a glance

The King Edward VI Foundation 11+ exam is administered by GL Assessment.
The examination assesses English, Mathematics, Verbal Reasoning, and Non-Verbal Reasoning.
The 11+ exams typically take place in September of Year 6.
Registration for the 11+ usually opens in May and closes in July of Year 5.
The exam results are typically released in mid-October, with school places offered in March of the following year.

Understanding the King Edward VI 11+ Exam Format

The KEEVI 11+ exam consists of two papers, each approximately 45-50 minutes long, with a short break in between. Both papers contain sections on English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning, and Non-Verbal Reasoning.

It is crucial to familiarise your child with the GL Assessment style questions for all four subjects. Practising with timed papers will help them manage their time effectively and reduce anxiety on exam day.

Key Preparation Strategies for Success

Effective preparation should be systematic and balanced. Start by identifying areas of strength and weakness across English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning, and Non-Verbal Reasoning. Focus on building foundational skills first before moving onto more complex problem-solving.

English: Emphasise reading comprehension, vocabulary development, and grammar.
Mathematics: Ensure a strong grasp of the Key Stage 2 curriculum, including arithmetic, problem-solving, and basic algebra/geometry concepts.
Verbal Reasoning: Practice identifying patterns and relationships in words, codes, and sequences.
Non-Verbal Reasoning: Develop spatial awareness and logical deduction skills by working through various shape and pattern-based puzzles.

The Importance of Timed Practice and Revision

Regular practice under timed conditions is essential. This helps children become accustomed to the exam pressure and learn to allocate their time wisely. After completing practice papers, review answers thoroughly, focusing on understanding mistakes rather than just getting the right answer.

Revision should be ongoing, not just in the weeks before the exam. Short, frequent study sessions are often more effective than long, infrequent ones. Encourage your child to maintain a healthy balance between studying, rest, and leisure activities to avoid burnout.

Try Birmingham (King Edward VI) 11+ practice questions

Question 1

Which word is the odd one out?

Answer: dismal. Joyful, elated, and merry are all synonyms indicating happiness. Dismal means gloomy or miserable, making it the odd one out.

Question 2

If a train travels at 60 miles per hour, how far will it travel in 2 hours and 30 minutes?

Answer: 150 miles. Distance = Speed × Time. 2 hours and 30 minutes is 2.5 hours. So, 60 mph × 2.5 hours = 150 miles.

Question 3

Find the next letter in the sequence: A, C, E, G, ?

Answer: I. This is an alphabetical sequence where each letter skips one letter in between (A, then B skipped, then C; C, then D skipped, then E). Following G, H is skipped, leading to I.

Question 4

Which of the following shapes completes the sequence?

Answer: Hexagon. This question requires an image, which cannot be represented in plain JSON. Assuming a sequence of shapes increasing in sides: triangle (3), square (4), pentagon (5). The next in sequence would be a hexagon (6).

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Frequently asked questions

Which exam board does the King Edward VI Foundation use for the 11+?

The King Edward VI Foundation uses the GL Assessment exam board for their 11+ examinations.

What subjects are tested in the Birmingham King Edward VI 11+?

The 11+ exam for the King Edward VI schools tests English, Mathematics, Verbal Reasoning, and Non-Verbal Reasoning.

When does registration for the King Edward VI 11+ typically open and close?

Registration generally opens in May of Year 5 and closes in July of Year 5, for exams taken in September of Year 6.

Can I apply to multiple King Edward VI schools?

Yes, when you register your child for the King Edward VI 11+ exam, you will be asked to rank your preferred schools within the Foundation. Your child's score will then be used for consideration at each school based on your ranking.