11+ Success

A child-centred approach

We adopt a compassionate and child-centred approach to all learning at The Roche School, and this extends to our 11+ exam preparation programme. The needs of the individual child are at the very centre of the preparation process.

Our dedicated and highly experienced 11+ teachers offer support which is specific and targeted, with additional booster lessons for those who need a little extra help, and challenge opportunities for those who are ready to be stretched even further.

Weekly practice of core exam skills

Pupils enjoy the opportunity to dig deep with the four, core 11+ subjects: English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning and Non-verbal Reasoning. Children become familiar with the exam formats and question types thanks to weekly, timed practice papers in all 11+ subjects. The ability to see their results improve steadily, week by week, provides motivation to pupils and reassurance to parents. Our pupils grow in confidence as they practise their 11+ interview skills, honing their ability to articulate their thoughts and feelings and apply their problem-solving skills to a variety of complex group and individual challenges.

Wellbeing and support

Throughout the 11+ exam process, we never lose sight of our pupils’ wellbeing and happiness.  We know that children must be happy in themselves in order to thrive academically. Our well-being drop in facility Room at The Roche is a place for children to offload any little worries they might have and enjoy a reassuring chat with our head of pastoral care and a cuddle with Jemima, our school therapy dog.  What’s more, our thrice weekly sessions of sport and games in the park enable our hard-working pupils to blow off a bit of steam and enjoy the fresh air.  We are continually impressed by the compassion and good humour our pupils demonstrate as they support one another over the course of the exam process.

Helping you to choose the right secondary school for your child

When it comes to choosing a secondary school, one size does not fit all.  We will consider your child’s personality, learning style, sporting talents, artistic abilities and extra-curricular interests, ensuring that each child gains a place at a school that will allow them to flourish.  We pride ourselves on the diverse range of schools that make up our Year 6 leavers’ destinations, as it is indicative of our ability to recognise the many and varied strengths and talents of our incredible Year 6 cohort. We have excellent relationships with our secondary schools and we take great care to recommend schools which will stretch children academically whilst ensuring that their social and emotional needs are met.

What happens next

The 11+ process is an opportunity for children not just to mature, but to blossom.  And when it’s all over, and each and every pupil has secured a place at one of their preferred secondary schools, pupils continue to participate in a rich and varied school experience. Children enjoy a wonderful range of extra-curricular opportunities, including exciting days out, incredible residential trips, and our now-famous (and always hilarious) Year 6 musical.

They’ll be off to secondary school before you know it.

Quotes from 2025 pupils on 11+

“I was confident starting my exams.” Pupil
“I feel like I grew up during the 11+ and now  I’m braver to be in new situations.” Pupil
“Before I joined The Roche, I would never have dreamed of trying for all these amazing schools.” Pupil

Apply Now

We are delighted that you are considering The Roche School and Nursery for your child. We teach children from 2-11 and entry is non-selective in Reception. Most of our pupils join our Nursery (aged 2+) or Reception class (aged 4+) and places may also be available for entry at other ages to join.
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