How to Make an 11+ Study Plan (Year 4–6)

A good 11+ study plan turns a daunting goal into small, manageable steps. It doesn’t need to be elaborate — just consistent. Here’s how to build one that works.

Start with a baseline

Before planning, find out where your child stands with a short assessment across the four areas. This shows you what to prioritise, so your plan targets real gaps rather than guesswork.

A year-by-year structure

• Year 4: Foundations — reading widely, times tables, vocabulary. Keep it light and enjoyable, no formal drills.
• Year 5: The main year. Introduce each question type and build a routine of short, regular practice across all four subjects.
• Year 6 (to September): Polish pace and confidence with timed practice and occasional mocks. The exam is usually right at the start of Year 6, so this is the run-up, not the time for new topics.

Plan the week, not just the year

Aim for short daily sessions — around 20–30 minutes — rather than long weekend blocks. Rotate subjects so nothing is neglected, and always include the areas your child finds hardest. Little and often wins.

Build in review and rest

Revisit mistakes rather than just moving on — that’s where the learning happens. And protect downtime: rest, play and sleep are part of the plan, not the enemy of it. A burned-out child learns less.

Stay flexible

Review the plan every few weeks. If a topic clicks, move on; if one is shaky, give it more time. A plan is a guide, not a cage. Tools that track progress and adapt to your child’s level make this much easier.

Kick off with a quick free 11+ practice test to set your baseline, then see our guide on when to start.