11+ preparation · a guide for parents
11+ Maths
Maths rewards fluent number sense and problem-solving. Here is what is covered and how to build confidence.
GL grammarFSCE grammarIndependent & ISEB
11+ Maths rewards fluent number sense and confident problem-solving — choosing the right method quickly, not just knowing it. Here are the topics, the routes, and how to build real confidence at home.
What is covered
- Number, place value and the four operations, with quick mental methods.
- Fractions, decimals and percentages — and converting between them.
- Ratio, proportion and the start of algebra.
- Measures, geometry, shape, position and time.
- Data — tables, charts and averages.
- Multi-step word problems — where most marks are decided.
The three exam routes
GL AssessmentMost grammar schools
Curriculum-aligned, multiple-choice. Rewards accuracy and speed; times-tables fluency is a real advantage.
FSCEFuture Stories
A paper Maths test built on KS2 to end of Year 5, with a mix of multiple-choice and written/constrained answers. Emphasis on applying knowledge to problems.
Independent / ISEBPrivate schools
An online numerical-reasoning section plus the school’s own paper — deeper, multi-step problems, often with working shown and credited.
How the routes compare
| Feature | GL grammar | FSCE | Independent / ISEB |
|---|
| Answer style | Multiple choice | Paper: MC + written | Online + written paper |
| Working shown | Not required | Sometimes required | Often expected & credited |
| Difficulty | Broad, curriculum | Applied KS2 (to Y5) | Deeper problem-solving |
| Reasoning | Separate VR/NVR | No separate reasoning | VR/NVR in pre-test |
About FSCE: Future Stories Community Enterprise is a not-for-profit linked to Reading School. Its paper-based test is built on the Key Stage 2 curriculum up to the end of Year 5, focuses on applying knowledge rather than exam tricks, and is used by a growing number of grammar schools. Always confirm which exam your target school uses — schools do change boards between years.
How you can help at home
- Drill times tables to instant recall — little and often, in any direction.
- Do real-life maths — money, cooking ratios, journey times, discounts.
- Read word problems aloud: “What is it really asking?” before calculating.
- Always show working — it builds accuracy and suits FSCE and independent papers.
- Encourage estimation as a check: “Is that answer sensible?”
Common pitfalls to avoid
- Memorising methods without understanding — it collapses on multi-step problems.
- Skipping word problems because they feel hard (they carry the most marks).
- Weak times tables slowing down every question.
Not sure where your child stands?
Book a free, no-pressure initial assessment. We’ll pinpoint strengths and gaps across number, arithmetic and problem-solving and map out a realistic plan — whichever exam your target schools use.
Book a free assessment
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