A state grammar school in Warwickshire for boys and girls, with entry at 11+. Here is the test it uses, what is in it and how to prepare.
One shared GL Assessment test in September of Year 6 for the grammar schools of Birmingham, Walsall, Wolverhampton, Telford and Warwickshire: two papers of about 50 minutes of questions each, in individually timed sections of English comprehension, verbal reasoning, maths and non-verbal reasoning. Every question is multiple choice, answered on a separate sheet. English and verbal reasoning count for half the score; there is no writing.
| Stage | Paper | How it is answered | Prism practice paper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Test day | Paper 1 | Multiple choice | 60 questions, 50 minutes |
| Test day | Paper 2 | Multiple choice | 60 questions, 50 minutes |
Test setters rarely publish how many questions a paper has, so the question counts are the length of Prism’s practice papers; timings follow the setter’s published guidance where there is any. Arrangements change from year to year: always check them with the school or local authority.
The West Midlands Grammar Schools 11+ covers maths, English, verbal reasoning and non-verbal reasoning. Most families start steady preparation in Year 4 or early Year 5, building accuracy first and speed later, then sit timed papers through the summer before the test, which usually takes place in September.
For maths, secure the Key Stage 2 arithmetic, fractions, ratio and problem solving before moving to the multi-step questions that separate the strongest candidates.
For English, read widely every day and practise comprehension, vocabulary, spelling, punctuation and grammar; selective tests reward precise word knowledge.
Verbal reasoning is a set of learnable question types, such as letter codes, hidden words and word analogies. Learning each type, then practising it against the clock, lifts scores quickly.
Non-verbal reasoning is about spotting patterns in shapes: rotations, reflections, sequences and matrices. Short, regular sessions work better than long ones.
Written by Prism in the style of the test, not taken from any school’s papers.
What is 416 as an improper fraction?
Answer: E, 256
What does the word “ravenous” mean?
Answer: B, extremely hungry
Choose one word from each group. Which two words are closest in meaning?
( huge, saucer, ladder ) ( table, enormous, pencil )
Answer: E, huge and enormous
The first figure changes into the second. Which option changes the third figure in the same way?
Answer: A
Ashlawn School uses the West Midlands Grammar Schools 11+, which tests maths, English, verbal reasoning and non-verbal reasoning. It is answered with multiple choice. Check the school’s admissions page for the current arrangements.
Schools do not publish pass marks. As a guide, Prism suggests a child aims to score around 78% consistently in practice for a selective school. This is Prism’s own estimate, not a figure from the school, and no score guarantees a place.
Most families start in Year 4 or early Year 5, then practise timed papers during the summer before the test, which usually takes place in September.
Practise straight away at your child’s school year in maths and English, with verbal and non-verbal reasoning for the 11 Plus, and every answer explained. A free check, whenever you like, shows what to practise next and builds a weekly plan, for their year or for your target schools. Parents follow progress free.
Try five questions free Start freePrism Learning is not affiliated with Ashlawn School. Details are indicative; always check admissions arrangements with the school.