Aylesbury Grammar School's 11+ is two papers: verbal and non-verbal reasoning, then mathematics. Knowing that split matters, because families prepare maths and leave reasoning untouched - and reasoning is where format familiarity gains the most marks. Practise both papers under timed conditions, and confirm the current structure on the school's own admissions page, since the format is reviewed periodically.
For context: 83.6% of families in England were offered their first-preference secondary school for September 2026 entry, and 92.4% their first-preference primary. — DfE, School applications and offers, 2026
Overview of the 11+ STT Exam
If you're a parent in Aylesbury or the surrounding areas considering enrolling your child at Aylesbury Grammar School, understanding the format of the 11+ Secondary Transfer Test (STT) is crucial. This blog post aims to provide a comprehensive guide to the Aylesbury Grammar School 11+ STT exam format, helping you prepare your child effectively.
What are exam details?
What is paper 1: verbal and non-verbal reasoning?
The first paper of the Aylesbury Grammar School 11+ STT exam includes:
- Verbal Reasoning: This section tests your child's ability to analyze and think logically using language. Skills assessed include vocabulary, comprehension, and reasoning.
- Non-Verbal Reasoning: This part evaluates logical thinking using shapes and patterns, crucial for assessing visual and spatial awareness.
What is paper 2: mathematics?
The mathematics paper assesses:
- Arithmetic skills
- Understanding of geometry
- Knowledge of algebra
This paper challenges the child's numerical abilities and problem-solving skills in a timed environment.
What are preparation tips?
Which resources help you prepare?
To adequately prepare your child for the Aylesbury Grammar School 11+ STT, consider utilizing:
- Practice papers
- Online resources specifically designed for the 11+ exams
- Educational books that focus on verbal, non-verbal reasoning, and mathematics
Why Does a Tutor Matter?
Hiring a tutor can provide:
- Tailored learning approaches
- Additional support and guidance
- Techniques to improve time management and exam strategies
What is the beyond the exam?
What is the interview process?
Performing well in the 11+ STT exam is just the beginning. Successful candidates are usually invited for an interview, which is an opportunity for the school to:
- Understand the candidate's personality
- Assess their suitability and readiness for the academic environment at Aylesbury Grammar School
What should you do next?
The Aylesbury Grammar School 11+ STT exam is a comprehensive and competitive assessment designed to test a wide range of skills. Preparation is key to success, and with the right approach, resources, and support, your child can perform to the best of their abilities. Dedication and hard work in preparing for both the exam and the subsequent interview can significantly enhance your child's chances of securing a place at Aylesbury Grammar School.
What else is worth reading?
- Navigating the 11+ Admissions Process at Aylesbury Grammar School
- How to Apply for 11+ Entry to Aylesbury Grammar School: A…
- Navigating the 11+ Secondary Transfer Test at Aylesbury Grammar School
- Preparing for the Aylesbury Grammar School 11+ English Exam: A Guide…
- Preparing for the Aylesbury Grammar School 11+ Exam: A Guide to…
What can this guide not tell you about a particular school?
There is no national 11+ exam. Each school or local authority sets its own test, dates and admissions criteria, and republishes them every year, so the detail here can go out of date within a cycle. Confirm against the school’s own admissions policy and gov.uk school admissions before you rely on any date.
Every school publishes its own rule, and the national position is short:
“All schools have admission criteria to decide which children get places.” — gov.uk, School admissions
Where can you check this at source?
There is no national 11+ exam. Each grammar school or local authority sets its own test, dates and admissions criteria, and publishes them in an admissions policy that changes year to year. Always confirm with the school directly, then check the national rules:
- School admissions (gov.uk) — how applying for a school place works
- Admissions criteria (gov.uk) — how schools are allowed to decide who gets a place
- The School Admissions Code — the statutory rules every admissions authority must follow

