Entry to grammar schools in Altrincham, and independent schools such as Stockport Grammar School, is competitive. Preparation for the 11+ exam is a key part of the admissions process for these schools.
This guide provides an overview of the 11+ exams relevant to the Stockport and Altrincham areas, offering insights into the format, subjects, and how families can approach preparation effectively.
Stockport & Altrincham 11+ at a glance
The 11+ examinations for Altrincham Grammar School for Boys and Altrincham Grammar School for Girls are managed by the Trafford Grammar Schools CEM Consortium.
The CEM 11+ exam typically covers Verbal Reasoning, Non-Verbal Reasoning, and Numerical Reasoning (Mathematics).
Stockport Grammar School, an independent school, uses its own entrance examination which usually includes papers in English and Mathematics.
The 11+ exams for Trafford grammar schools generally take place in September of Year 6.
Registration for the 11+ exams usually opens in May/June and closes in July of Year 5 (for exams in Year 6).
Understanding the Exam Format
The specific format of the 11+ exam varies depending on the school. For the Altrincham grammar schools, administered by the Trafford Grammar Schools CEM Consortium, candidates will sit a CEM-style examination. This often means a focus on core skills and aptitude, with questions designed to be less susceptible to extensive coaching.
Stockport Grammar School's individual entrance exam will typically feature papers in English and Mathematics. These papers often assess curriculum knowledge alongside problem-solving and comprehension skills. Familiarising your child with both CEM and independent school exam styles, if they are applying to a mix of schools, is important.
Core Subjects and Skills
For CEM exams, the three main areas are Verbal Reasoning, Non-Verbal Reasoning, and Numerical Reasoning. Verbal Reasoning tests vocabulary, comprehension, and logical thinking with words. Non-Verbal Reasoning assesses problem-solving using shapes, diagrams, and patterns. Numerical Reasoning focuses on mathematical skills, often presented in problem-solving contexts.
For independent school exams like Stockport Grammar's, English papers typically include comprehension and a writing task. Mathematics papers cover the National Curriculum up to year 5/6, often extending to more complex problem-solving. Developing strong foundational skills in these subjects is crucial, alongside regular practice of exam-style questions.
Effective Preparation Strategies
Consistent and structured preparation is often more effective than last-minute cramming. Start by identifying any knowledge gaps and incrementally build your child's understanding. Regular practice of appropriate materials helps children become familiar with question types and manage their time effectively.
Start Early: Begin preparation in Year 4 or early Year 5, if feasible.
Focus on Fundamentals: Ensure a strong grasp of primary English and Maths curriculum.
Practice Papers: Use practice papers to simulate exam conditions and identify areas for improvement.
Develop Vocabulary: A strong vocabulary is beneficial for both CEM Verbal Reasoning and English papers.
Time Management: Teach children to work efficiently under timed conditions.
Try Stockport & Altrincham 11+ practice questions
Question 1
Which number is missing from the sequence: 3, 7, 12, 18, __, 33?
Answer: 27. The differences between consecutive terms are +4, +5, +6. Following this pattern, the next difference should be +7. So, 18 + 7 = 25. Thus, the sequence is 3, 7, 12, 18, 25, 33. The differences are +4, +5, +6, +7, +8. Hence, 18 + 7 = 25 and 25 + 8 = 33.
Question 2
Read the following sentence: 'The ancient ruins, discovered by archaeologists, revealed a forgotten civilisation.' What is the meaning of 'ancient' in this context?
Answer: Very old. 'Ancient' means belonging to the very distant past. In the context of 'ancient ruins' and a 'forgotten civilisation,' it clearly refers to something very old.
Question 3
Which of these words is the odd one out?
Answer: Sad. 'Happy', 'Joyful', and 'Glad' are all synonyms, meaning feeling or showing pleasure or contentment. 'Sad' is an antonym, meaning feeling or showing sorrow or unhappiness.
Question 4
Which shape completes the sequence?
Answer: A square rotated 90 degrees clockwise. Without an image, this is a placeholder. A typical Non-Verbal Reasoning question involves identifying a pattern of rotation, reflection, or change in attributes. For example, if the sequence showed a square, then a square rotated clockwise by 45 degrees, then 90 degrees, the next would be a square rotated 135 degrees. A common NVR pattern is rotation by a consistent angle, so 'A square rotated 90 degrees clockwise' is a plausible answer for a sequential rotation pattern where the preceding shape was a square rotated by 0 degrees.
Practice every day, the easy way
PipPrep adapts to your child's target school with 100,000+ questions across maths, English, verbal and non-verbal reasoning. Free to start, no card needed.
When do children take the 11+ exam for Altrincham Grammar Schools?
Children typically take the 11+ examination for Altrincham Grammar School for Boys and Altrincham Grammar School for Girls in September of Year 6.
What subjects are covered in the Altrincham Grammar Schools' 11+ exam?
The 11+ exam for the Altrincham Grammar Schools (part of the Trafford Grammar Schools CEM Consortium) typically covers Verbal Reasoning, Non-Verbal Reasoning, and Numerical Reasoning (Mathematics).
What is the format of the Stockport Grammar School entrance exam?
Stockport Grammar School, an independent school, uses its own entrance examination. This usually includes papers in English and Mathematics, focusing on curriculum knowledge and problem-solving skills.
Do I need to register my child for the 11+ exam?
Yes, registration is essential. For Trafford grammar schools, registration usually opens in May/June and closes in July of the year before the exam (when your child is in Year 5). Specific dates are published on the schools' websites.