At Forest Preparatory School, we understand that preparing for the 11+ is an important milestone in a child’s educational journey. But here, that preparation goes far beyond practice papers and exam technique. Whether your child is already thinking about grammar school or you’re simply dreaming big for your two-year-old, here’s what you need to know about how we do things the Forest way.
Our approach is about much more than getting children through a test. Our goal is to produce individuals who will thrive, not just survive, in grammar school and beyond.
How We Prepare for the 11+ at Forest Prep
At Forest Prep, our 11+ preparation is carefully structured and begins in Year 2, gradually building knowledge, confidence, and exam technique across Verbal Reasoning, Non-Verbal Reasoning, English and Maths. As pupils move through the years, we introduce formal test settings, timed assessments, and practice interviews, all while ensuring learning stays engaging and balanced.
- Year 2 and 3: Introduction to timetabled Verbal/Non-Verbal Reasoning lessons and teaching the children about multiple-choice formats of answering questions.
- Year 4: Weekly timetabled Reasoning lessons, 11+ style comprehension and creative writing
- Year 5: Focused English, Maths and Reasoning aligned to the Trafford 11+ curriculum, Mock 11+ Exams, intervention support including Late Class with Mr Booth and holiday booster sessions during Easter, Whit and Summer.
- Year 6: Final preparation with exam skills workshops, weekly timed assessments, and interview practice. Mrs Knowles also works very closely with the chosen secondary school in order to make the transition as smooth, effective and enjoyable as possible.
Throughout, we maintain a broad and balanced curriculum, ensuring children are academically prepared while continuing to nurture creativity, curiosity, and character.
We’re Big on Opportunities
At Forest Prep, we believe in the power of opportunity. We give children regular chances to step outside the classroom, discover their passions, and grow as individuals. Last year alone, our pupils experienced an incredible range of events that built character, confidence, and a sense of community, including:
- Centenary Gala at The Stoller Hall, Manchester
Pupils performed on stage — singing, playing instruments including piano, drums and flute — building self-confidence, courage, and stage presence.
- Upper School Show at Altrincham Little Theatre
A full theatrical production over three nights, where children learned commitment, teamwork, and performance skills.
- Centenary Poetry Competition
Finalists presented their poems to a packed audience, developing their public speaking, creativity, and self-expression.
- STEM Enrichment Sessions
Reception – Year 6 engaged in hands-on workshops led by our specialist STEM teacher
- Alderley Edge Music Festival
Our talented choir, string soloists, pianists and brass players represented Forest with pride, growing discipline and musicality.
- National and Regional Sports Competitions
From the ISA National Swimming Finals in London to competing in the ISA Cross Country Final, and the ISA Northern Junior Athletics competition at Etihad, pupils represented the school with resilience, perseverance and sporting spirit.
- Bellevue Education Opportunities
As part of the Bellevue group, our pupils enjoyed even more chances to shine – two reached the semi-finals of the Bellevue Spelling Bee, and our main choir secured first place in the Bellevue Choir of the Year.
- Buddy Schemes
We create inter-year friendships through our buddy programmes: Nursery & Year 6, Year 5 & Year 1, Year 3 & Reception — encouraging leadership, kindness and responsibility.
Nurture Matters Just as Much
We believe that happy children learn best, and our nurturing environment is central to our success.
We have Maggie, our much-loved school dog, who is always there for a cheerful cuddle when needed. Alongside her are our school tortoises, George and Mildred, and our chickens, all part of creating a calm and caring atmosphere.
Excitingly, two pygmy goats joined our community this September — another wonderful addition to our ever-growing outdoor environment.
We also recently unveiled our brand-new outdoor classroom, a fantastic space for learners who thrive in nature and benefit from alternative learning environments.
Small Class Sizes, Big Impact
With a maximum ratio of 1:12 from Reception to Year 6 — and even smaller groups in Nursery and Kindergarten — every child receives the individualised attention they need to grow academically and personally.
Our Housepoint scheme fosters kindness and good behaviour across year groups, helping children build friendships and develop a sense of belonging and responsibility.
Where They Go Next
Our holistic approach ensures that Forest Prep pupils leave us not only ready for the 11+, but for the exciting years that follow.
We are proud to report that 77% of pupils who sat selective grammar school exams in the previous school year passed at least one — a testament to our balanced approach that combines academic excellence with personal growth.
Our most recent year 6 leavers cohort moved on to a range of outstanding secondary schools, which included:
- Altrincham Grammar School
- The Grange
- Cheadle Hulme School
- Alderley Edge School for Girls
