Queen Elizabeth's School, Barnet, commonly known as QE Boys, is a highly selective grammar school. Admission to Year 7 is determined by performance in its own 11+ entrance examination.
Preparing thoroughly for the QE Boys 11+ is crucial due to the competitive nature of admissions. This guide provides an overview of the examination process and effective preparation strategies.
QE Boys (Barnet) 11+ at a glance
The QE Boys 11+ entrance exam typically consists of two papers: English and Mathematics.
Both papers are usually multiple-choice in style, requiring careful time management.
The 11+ exam is generally held in September of Year 6.
Registration for the exam usually opens in May and closes in July of Year 5 into Year 6.
Academic performance in these two subjects is the sole criterion for progression to the next stage of the admissions process.
Understanding the QE Boys 11+ Exam Format
The QE Boys 11+ examination is designed to identify boys with high academic potential. It comprises two papers: English and Mathematics. Both papers are typically set and marked by the school itself.
The English paper often includes sections on reading comprehension, vocabulary, and may also assess aspects of grammar and punctuation. The Mathematics paper covers topics from the National Curriculum up to the end of Year 5, often with a focus on problem-solving and arithmetic accuracy. Familiarity with the specific style of questions used by QE is beneficial.
Effective Preparation Strategies for English
For the English paper, consistent reading of a wide range of challenging texts is fundamental. This builds vocabulary, comprehension skills, and an understanding of different literary devices. Practising answering comprehension questions under timed conditions is also important.
Reading Comprehension: Focus on identifying main ideas, inferring meaning, and understanding authorial intent.
Vocabulary: Learn new words regularly and understand their nuances. Use flashcards or vocabulary apps.
Grammar and Punctuation: Ensure a strong grasp of sentence structure, tenses, and correct punctuation usage.
Mastering Mathematics for the QE Boys 11+
The Mathematics paper assesses a student's ability to apply mathematical concepts and solve problems accurately and efficiently. A solid foundation in core arithmetic, fractions, decimals, percentages, and basic algebra is essential. Mental maths practice is also highly valuable.
Core Skills: Ensure proficiency in addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, including long multiplication and division.
Problem Solving: Practice a variety of word problems that require multi-step solutions. Identifying the correct operation and approach is key.
Speed and Accuracy: Work on answering questions quickly yet accurately under timed conditions. Regular practice with past papers or similar resources can help.
Try QE Boys (Barnet) 11+ practice questions
Question 1
Which of these words is closest in meaning to 'ubiquitous'?
Answer: Pervasive. Ubiquitous means 'present, appearing, or found everywhere'. Pervasive means 'spreading widely throughout an area or a group of people'.
Question 2
A baker uses 250g of flour for every 10 cupcakes. If he wants to make 70 cupcakes, how much flour will he need?
Answer: 1.25 kg. For 70 cupcakes, the baker needs 70 / 10 = 7 times the amount of flour for 10 cupcakes. So, 250g * 7 = 1750g. Since 1000g = 1kg, 1750g = 1.75kg. Out of the options, 1.25 kg (1250g) and 1.5 kg (1500g) are incorrect. Rechecking the question, 1.75 kg is equivalent to 1750g. Oh, the options are wrong. Let's correct them to make 1.75 kg available. New options: ["1.75 kg", "1.5 kg", "1750 g", "1.25 kg"]. The correct option should be '1.75 kg'.
Question 3
Which shape comes next in the sequence?
[Square, Circle, Triangle, Square, Circle, Triangle, ?, ?]
Answer: Square, Circle. The sequence follows a repeating pattern of Square, Circle, Triangle. Therefore, the next two shapes will be Square, Circle.
Question 4
If 'CAT' is coded as 3120, and 'DOG' is coded as 4157, what would 'BIRD' be coded as?
Answer: 29184. This is a letter-to-number code where each letter's numerical position in the alphabet is used. C=3, A=1, T=20, thus CAT=3120. D=4, O=15, G=7, thus DOG=4157. B=2, I=9, R=18, D=4. So BIRD = 29184.
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The QE Boys 11+ exam typically tests English and Mathematics.
When does registration for the QE Boys 11+ usually open?
Registration for the QE Boys 11+ usually opens in May of Year 5 and closes in July before the exam in September of Year 6. Specific dates are published on the school's website.
Are past papers available for the QE Boys 11+?
QE Boys may provide sample papers or information about the exam format on its own website. It is always best to check the school's official admissions page directly for specific guidance and resources.
Does QE Boys consider my son's primary school reports?
Admission to Queen Elizabeth's School is solely based on performance in their 11+ entrance examination. Primary school reports or headteacher recommendations are not usually part of the selection process.