Ilford County High School 11+ Exam (11plus Exam) | Math&Reason
- Oct 9, 2025
- 3 min read
The Ilford County High School 11+ exam is one of London’s most competitive grammar school entrance tests. Every year, over six boys compete for each of the 180 places at this outstanding Redbridge grammar school.
With a standardised pass mark of 104 and consistently ranking among the best state schools in England, understanding this 11plus exam is essential if you want to give your son the best chance of securing a place.
Table of Contents
Why is the Ilford County High School 11plus (11+) exam so competitive?
Founded in 1901, Ilford County High School has a long tradition of academic excellence.
The 11plus exam is run by the Redbridge Grammar Schools Consortium, which also includes Woodford County High School for Girls. This means your son only sits one test to be considered for both schools.
Exam format
The Redbridge 11+ exam is set by GL Assessment and consists of:
English & Verbal Reasoning – comprehension, grammar, vocabulary and logical reasoning.
Mathematics & Non-Verbal Reasoning – problem-solving, number skills, shapes, patterns and sequences.
Each paper lasts around 50–60 minutes.
All questions are multiple-choice, making timing and answer-sheet practice critical.
Important dates and deadlines (2025 entry)
Registration opens – Tuesday, 1st May 2025
Deadline for registration – Sunday, 15th June 2025 (5pm)
Exam date – Friday, 19th September 2025
Results released – mid-October 2025
Common Application Form deadline – Friday, 31st October 2025
Note: Missing any deadline means your child cannot be considered, no matter how strong their performance.
Catchment and entry requirements
Ilford County High operates a strict catchment policy.
Only boys living within the Redbridge common catchment area are eligible.
Catchment is verified using the council’s online mapping tool.
180 Year 7 places are available.
In September 2024, 1,116 boys took the exam, but only 447 achieved the qualifying score of 104+.
Note: Passing the test does not guarantee a place, oversubscription criteria apply, prioritising:
Looked-after children
Pupil Premium applicants
Highest scoring candidates
How to prepare effectively
Mathematics
Covers the full Key Stage 2 curriculum plus problem-solving.
Expect algebra, geometry, measurement, statistics and multi-step word problems.
English & Verbal Reasoning
Tests reading comprehension, grammar and vocabulary.
Includes analogies, codes and logical sequences.
Non-Verbal Reasoning
Focuses on shapes, patterns and sequences.
Requires strong visual problem-solving skills.
Note: Regular practice with authentic GL Assessment papers is essential.
Why tutoring helps
Given the intensity of the Redbridge 11+ exam, many families choose specialist tutoring.
Expert tutors identify weaknesses and create tailored learning plans.
Professional support develops not just knowledge but also exam techniques.
Providers like Math & Reason | Affordable 11+ tutor UK and Mock Tests helps students secured grammar places.
Common mistakes to avoid
Starting preparation too late (e.g. only in Year 6).
Focusing on subject knowledge without timed exam practice.
Allowing stress and pressure to reduce confidence.
The role of mock tests
Mock exams provided by Math & Reason | Affordable 11+ tutor UK and Mock Tests:
Realistic experience of timing and pressure.
Familiarity with GL Assessment’s style.
Performance insights for targeted improvement.
Students scoring 85–90% in practice papers usually meet or exceed the Redbridge pass standard.
