❓ SECTION 10: FAQs & Common Myths
“Less panic. More perspective.”
There’s a lot of noise around the 11+. This is where we silence the stress and put facts first. Below are the most common questions parents ask — plus the myths we hear every year (and why they don’t hold up).
👂 Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is grammar school the only way to get a good education?
No. It’s one great path — not the path.
There are high-performing comprehensives, faith schools, independents, and academies that stretch students just as much.
What matters is fit, not just reputation.
2. What if my child doesn’t pass the 11+?
It’s okay. It’s one test on one day.
Plenty of future doctors, engineers, and entrepreneurs didn’t pass — and still thrived.
Use this moment to teach resilience, not regret.
3. Can my child pass without a tutor?
Yes — if they’ve got structure, support, and quality resources.
We built The Common School for this very reason — so they could train smart, not just train more.
Tutors can help, but mindset + strategy go further.
4. How many grammar schools can I apply to?
As many as your Local Authority allows on the CAF (usually up to 6).
List them in real preference order — not just by results or guesswork.
5. Will I know my child’s score before applying?
Usually, yes — results are released in October, before the October 31st CAF deadline.
But a few super-selective schools don’t share scores, only whether your child is eligible or not.
6. Can we apply outside our area?
Yes — but be smart about it.
Some schools only accept local children.
Others accept the top scorers only, no matter where they live.
Think about travel time, logistics, and wellbeing, too.
7. Can they retake the 11+?
Not for Year 7 entry. But some areas offer 12+ or 13+ entry if places open later.
It’s rare — but worth checking.
8. What if my child has SEN (Special Educational Needs)?
Most schools allow reasonable adjustments — extra time, rest breaks, a smaller room — if you provide proper documentation (like an EHCP or educational psychologist report).
You’ll need to notify schools early when registering.
🧨 Common Myths (Busted)
“Only super-genius kids pass the 11+.”
🚫 False. The test rewards prepared thinking, not just raw ability.
With the right strategy and support, even ‘average’ students can smash it.
“If you hire a tutor, you’re guaranteed to pass.”
🚫 Nope. No one can guarantee results.
Tutors help, but it’s about consistency, mindset, and the full support system around the child.
“Grammar schools are always better.”
🚫 Depends on the child. Some grammar schools are amazing — some aren’t.
And some comprehensives outperform them in both academics and personal growth.
Look for the right environment, not just the name.
“If they don’t pass, they’ve failed.”
🚫 100% not true.
What matters is who they’re becoming — not just which school they attend.
Failing a test doesn’t make them a failure. It makes them resilient.
✅ Final Word
The 11+ can be stressful — but it doesn’t have to be scary.
The truth is: every child can win. Maybe it’s at a grammar school. Maybe it’s by building confidence through the journey itself.
We’re here to coach them — and you — through it all.