Over 18 Years of 11+ Success

Is Grammar School Right for Your Child?

A parent's introduction to the 11+ examination. Honest guidance, expert support, and proven results at Kip McGrath Billericay and Wickford.

What You Need to Know About the 11+

The 11+ is an entrance examination for grammar school admission, taken in September of Year 6. In Essex, with limited grammar school places and high competition, thorough preparation is essential for success. The majority of grammar schools in Essex are part of the Consortium for Selective Schools (CSSE). Chelmsford County High School for Girls operate their entrance exam outside of this consortium. Girls, will potentially, have to sit two exams depending on which grammar schools you are interested in.

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Preparation

Years 4 and 5

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Examination

September, Year 6

Application deadline

October 31st, Year 6

Is This the Right Path?

Grammar schools provide highly academic, challenging environments designed for children who:

  • Love learning and problem-solving
  • Show perseverance with difficult tasks
  • Work confidently ahead of their age group
  • Enjoy reading widely and writing creatively
  • Demonstrate strong memory and quick thinking

Important: Grammar schools are not suitable for every child. Different children thrive in different environments and gifted and bright children can also excel in other schools.

Student engaged in 11+ preparation

The Kip McGrath Difference

We don't just teach exam techniques—we build confident, capable learners with over 15 years of 11+ success.

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Honesty First

We'll tell you honestly whether grammar school preparation is right for your child. No pressure, no sales tactics—just genuine advice.

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Knowledge, Not Just Exam Skills

We teach children to work, at a minimum, 1-2 years ahead of the national curriculum, building genuine understanding that benefits them regardless of exam outcomes.

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Personalised Learning

Every child receives an individualised learning plan based on their assessment, addressing specific gaps and building on existing strengths.

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Strategic Exam Preparation

Exam techniques are introduced in Year 5, once strong foundations are established—not before children are ready as this can impact their self-confidence.

What Success Actually Requires

Let's be realistic:

Weekly tutoring in each subject provides expert guidance and teaching. There is a lot of content to cover and your child is unlikely to be covering this at school yet.
Homework completed every week to consolidate learning and familiarise with the exam format and question types.
Parental support and involvement make a significant difference. You do not need to be able to answer the questions yourself, but your encouragement and commitment is essential.
Independent study at home is essential for mastery. This includes reading to extend vocabulary and completion of targetted support guides.
Mock exam pratice provides and invaluable experience of the exam environment.
Commitment from your child is crucial—they must want this too.

Success requires a partnership between tutor, parent, and child. We provide the expertise and structure; your family provides the commitment and support.

[Video: Our Teaching Approach / Parent Testimonial]

Understanding the Essex 11+ Exams

Essex has two distinct examination formats. We prepare children for both.

CSSE

Most Essex Grammar Schools

Consortium of Selective Schools in Essex

  • One Maths paper
  • One English paper (comprehension + writing)
  • Two Verbal Reasoning papers
  • Taken in September of Year 6
CCHS

Chelmsford County High School

Independent Assessment System

  • One Maths paper
  • One English paper
  • Different format and timing
  • Requires separate preparation

What Both Exams Test

Strong mathematical reasoning
Advanced reading comprehension
Sophisticated vocabulary
Logical thinking skills
Speed and accuracy under pressure
Problem-solving ability
[Image: Exam Formats Comparison / Sample Papers]

Our 11+ Preparation Programme

A structured journey from foundation building to exam readiness.

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Free Assessment

We evaluate your child's current level and provide honest feedback on suitability, preparation needs, and realistic expectations.

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Years 4-5: Building Foundations

  • Strengthen core Maths and English
  • Introduce Verbal Reasoning concepts
  • Develop problem-solving strategies
  • Build confidence and study habits
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Year 6: Exam Ready

  • Practice with past papers
  • Timed exam conditions
  • Exam technique and time management
  • Regular mock exams with detailed feedback

Regular Mock Exams Throughout the Programme

Track progress, identify areas for improvement, and build exam confidence with our comprehensive mock examination system.

Learn About Mock Exams
[Image: Programme Timeline / Student Progression]

Your Questions Answered

Common questions from parents considering 11+ preparation for their children.

When should we start? +
What if my child isn't currently working ahead? +
Is this stressful for children? +
What if we change our minds? +
How do we know it's working? +
View Full FAQ

Take the First Step

Discover where your child stands and whether the 11+ is the right choice for your family. Book your free assessment today.

1 Comprehensive academic assessment
2 Honest evaluation and feedback
3 Personalised recommendations
4 Clear explanation of next steps
5 No pressure, no obligation

Billericay Centre

1st Floor, 144 High Street, Billericay, Essex, CM12 9DF

Wickford Centre

6-7 Basilica House, 334 Southend Road, Wickford, Essex, SS11 8QS

Our Promise to You

Whether your child attends grammar school or not, the knowledge, confidence, and love of learning they develop will serve them throughout their educational journey and beyond.

Honest Feedback

Provide honest feedback at every stage

Overall Development

Focus on your child's overall development, not just exam results

Realistic Expectations

Create realistic expectations based on individual progress

Informed Support

Support you in making informed decisions

Celebrate Progress

Celebrate effort and progress, not just outcomes

Ofsted Registered · 2 Million+ Students Taught Worldwide · Qualified Teachers

[Image: Successful Students / Happy Learners]