Latymer School 11 Plus Exam: Comprehensive Guide for Success

Exam Format:
The Latymer 11+ exam consists of two papers: a combined Mathematics & Verbal Reasoning paper (1 hour total, 30 minutes each) and a written English paper (1 hour). 

English Paper: 
The English paper includes both reading and writing sections. 

Test Location: All tests take place at The Latymer School. 

Assessment: The Mathematics and Verbal Reasoning papers are scored first, and only the top-scoring candidates have their English paper marked. 

Offer of Places: Places are offered to the top-ranked candidates based on their total score. 

The Latymer School, a highly sought-after grammar school in North London, is renowned for its academic excellence, rich history, and holistic approach to education. Admission to this prestigious school is fiercely competitive, with students needing to excel in the 11 Plus entrance examination to secure a place. This guide provides detailed information about the Latymer School 11 Plus exam, the application process, and tips to help your child succeed.

About The Latymer School

Founded in 1624, The Latymer School offers a challenging and enriching curriculum designed to nurture intellectual curiosity, creativity, and leadership skills. Located in Edmonton, the school consistently achieves exceptional academic results while fostering extracurricular engagement through music, sports, and drama programs.

Admission Process Overview

Admission to Year 7 at The Latymer School is determined by performance in the 11 Plus entrance exam. Here’s a breakdown of the key stages:

1. Registration:

• Parents must register their child via the school’s online portal, typically between May and June of the year prior to entry.
• A non-refundable registration fee may be required.

2. The 11 Plus Entrance Exam:

The Latymer School follows a two-stage testing process:

• Stage 1 Test (Verbal Reasoning and Maths):
  The first stage consists of multiple-choice questions in Verbal Reasoning and Mathematics. The results of this test are used to shortlist candidates for the second stage.

• Stage 2 Test (English and Maths):
  Shortlisted candidates take a written test that evaluates their skills in English comprehension, creative writing, and advanced Maths.

3. Offer of Place:

Offers are made based on performance in both stages of the exam and in accordance with the school’s admissions policy, which gives priority to students living within the designated catchment area.

The Latymer 11 Plus Exam Format

Understanding the exam format is crucial for effective preparation.

Stage 1: Multiple-Choice Test

• Maths: Covers topics from the Key Stage 2 curriculum, including problem-solving, arithmetic, and geometry.
• Verbal Reasoning: Assesses logical thinking, vocabulary, and comprehension skills.

Stage 2: Written Test

• English: Includes comprehension questions and a creative writing task to evaluate reading and writing skills.
• Maths: Features problem-solving and advanced mathematical reasoning tasks, requiring strong analytical skills.

Preparation Tips for the Latymer School 11 Plus Exam

1. Start Early:
   Begin preparation at least 12–18 months in advance to build strong foundational skills in Maths, English, and Verbal Reasoning.

2. Practice with Timed Papers:
   Familiarize your child with the exam format by using timed practice papers. Resources and specialized preparation such as Liberecas provide high-quality materials specifically designed for 11 Plus preparation.

3. Focus on Weak Areas:
   Regularly review your child’s performance to identify and address weaker areas. This targeted approach ensures steady improvement.

4. Develop Reading and Writing Skills:
   Encourage your child to read widely and practice creative writing. Exposure to a variety of texts helps improve vocabulary and comprehension skills essential for the English section.

5. Master Exam Techniques:
   Teach your child techniques for answering multiple-choice questions effectively, such as process of elimination and time management strategies.

6. Simulate Exam Conditions:
   Conduct mock exams under timed conditions to build your child’s confidence and familiarity with the pressure of the test day.

7. Use Quality Resources:
   Invest in reliable preparation materials that mirror the style and difficulty of the Latymer 11 Plus exam. Consider reputable resources like:

   • Liberecas (tailored practice papers and classroom prep for Maths)
   • Bond 11+ Series
   • CGP 11+ Practice Books

Catchment Area and Priority

The Latymer School operates a catchment area policy. Students must reside within this area by a specified date, usually before the first stage of the exam, to be eligible for admission. Parents are advised to review the school’s admissions policy carefully to confirm eligibility.

What Makes The Latymer School Unique?

The Latymer School stands out for its ability to combine academic excellence with a focus on creativity, personal development, and community engagement. Its ethos emphasizes producing well-rounded individuals who are equipped to succeed academically and personally.

Conclusion

Securing a place at The Latymer School requires strategic preparation, commitment, and a clear understanding of the exam process. By starting early, using high-quality resources, and fostering a positive learning environment, you can help your child approach the 11 Plus exam with confidence.