If you’re considering the 11+ in Birmingham, you’re not alone.
Birmingham has one of the largest and most competitive 11+ systems in the UK
This guide explains everything you need to know — clearly and realistically.
What Is the Birmingham 11+?
The Birmingham 11+ is:
- A selective entrance exam
- Used by the King Edward VI grammar schools
- Taken in Year 6 (September)
Key point:
All King Edward schools use a shared exam system
Which Schools Use the Birmingham 11+?
The main grammar schools include:
Boys
- King Edward VI Camp Hill School for Boys
- King Edward VI Aston School
- King Edward VI Handsworth Grammar School
Girls
- King Edward VI Camp Hill School for Girls
- King Edward VI Handsworth School for Girls
Mixed / Other selective
- King Edward VI Five Ways School
These are state grammar schools (free education)
Highly competitive
Exam Format (What Your Child Will Sit)
Birmingham uses:
GL Assessment
Typical structure:
- English (reading comprehension)
- Maths
- Verbal Reasoning
- Non-Verbal Reasoning
Usually split into multiple timed sections
Registration Process (Important)
The process is centralised.
Timeline:
- Registration opens: May – June (Year 5)
- Deadline: end of June
- Exam date: September (Year 6)
Registration is done via:
The Grammar Schools in Birmingham website
You must also:
- Submit your CAF (school preference form)
Missing either step can affect your application
Pass Scores & Cut-Offs (What You Need)
Birmingham uses a standardised scoring system.
Typical guidance:
- Scores are scaled (average around 200)
- Competitive scores often:
- 220–240+ for top schools (e.g. Camp Hill)
- Lower for other schools
Important:
- Cut-off scores change every year
- Depends on demand and cohort
There is no “guaranteed safe score”
Competition Level (Reality Check)
Birmingham is one of the most competitive regions.
Why?
- Large population
- High awareness of grammar schools
- Many applicants from outside areas
Result:
- Thousands of candidates
- Limited places
Even strong students may not secure top schools
Catchment & Priority Areas
This is critical.
Birmingham schools use:
- Priority areas (catchment zones)
- Distance criteria
This means:
- Living within priority area increases chances
- Out-of-area applicants face tougher competition
Strategy matters — not just score
Exam Day Tips (Practical but Overlooked)
1. Visit the School Beforehand
- Know the entrance
- Understand logistics
- Reduce stress
2. Plan for Traffic
Birmingham exam mornings can be busy.
Especially around:
- Camp Hill
- Aston
- Five Ways
3. Arrive Early
- 20–30 minutes before
- Avoid rushing
Calm start = better performance
A Smarter Application Strategy
Instead of focusing on one school:
Use a tiered approach
Example:
- 1–2 ambitious choices
- 2 realistic options
- 1 safe backup
This increases your overall success rate
Common Mistakes Parents Make
Only applying to top schools
Ignoring catchment areas
Missing deadlines
Underestimating competition
These mistakes can cost a place
Final Advice
The Birmingham 11+ is:
- Well-structured
- Highly competitive
- Achievable with preparation
But success requires:
- Strong academic foundation
- Consistent preparation
- Smart application strategy
Bottom Line
Birmingham offers excellent grammar school opportunities.
But:
It is not just about passing
It is about understanding the system and applying strategically