11+ Plus Interview Questions with Answers
11+ Plus Interview QuestionsÂ
I know how nerve-wracking interviews can feel for both parents and children. The good news? With the right preparation and mindset, your child can walk into that interview room feeling confident and ready to shine.
Whether your child is applying to grammar schools or independent schools, interviews have become increasingly important in the admissions process. Over the past few years, schools have placed a greater emphasis on interviews, making it essential for students to understand the significance of this step in the admissions process.
These interviews typically last 20-30 minutes and aren’t just about academic ability – they’re about discovering who your child is as a person, their interests, and how they might contribute to the school community.
What Makes a Great 11+ Plus Interview Answer?
Before we dive into specific questions, let’s talk about what schools are really looking for:
- Genuine enthusiasm – Children who show real interest in learning and the school
- Clear communication – The ability to express thoughts confidently and coherently
- Personal reflection – Understanding of their own strengths, interests, and growth areas
- Curiosity – A willingness to engage with new ideas and ask thoughtful questions
- Resilience – How they handle unexpected questions or admit when they don’t know something
11 Essential Interview Questions Every Parent Should Practice
Personal & Character Questions
- “What is your favourite thing about your current school?”
Strong Answer Example: “I really love our reading corner in the library. It’s where I discovered my passion for mystery books, and our librarian, Mrs. Johnson, always recommends the most exciting stories. I also like how our teachers encourage us to ask questions – even if they seem silly at first!”
Why This Works: Shows appreciation for learning environments and specific details that demonstrate engagement.
- “Tell me about a book you’re reading or have recently read.”
Strong Answer Example: “I’m reading ‘The Girl Who Stole an Elephant’ by Nizrana Farook. I chose it because I love adventure stories, and this one is set in ancient Sri Lanka, which is completely different from anywhere I’ve been. The main character, Chaya, reminds me of myself because she’s determined and doesn’t give up easily, even when things get scary.”
Why This Works: Shows reading for pleasure, cultural awareness, and personal connection to characters.
- “How would your best friend describe you?”
Strong Answer Example: “My best friend would probably say I’m reliable and quite funny. When she was worried about her maths test last week, I spent break time helping her practice, and I think she’d remember that. She’d also say I make her laugh because I’m always creating silly voices for the characters when we read together.”
Why This Works: Demonstrates self-awareness, kindness, and social skills.
Academic & Learning Questions
- “What are your favourite and least favourite subjects?”
Strong Answer Example: “My favourite subject is science because I love conducting experiments and finding out why things work the way they do. Last week, we made volcanoes with vinegar and baking soda, and I was fascinated by the chemical reaction. My least favourite is probably geography because I find it challenging to remember all the different countries and their capitals, but I’m working on it by using online quizzes.”
Why This Works: Shows genuine interest, specific examples, and a growth mindset towards challenges.
- “Describe a school project you particularly enjoyed.”
Strong Answer Example: “For our Ancient Egypt topic, I created a detailed model of a pyramid and researched how they were built. What I loved most was discovering that the workers weren’t slaves like I thought, but skilled craftsmen who were well-fed and respected. It made me realize how important it is to question what we think we know and do proper research.”
Why This Works: Demonstrates research skills, critical thinking, and genuine learning.
Future & Aspirations Questions
- “What new skill would you like to learn and why?”
Strong Answer Example: “I’d love to learn coding because I’m fascinated by how apps and games are created. I noticed that your school has a computing club, and I think it would be amazing to learn how to build something from scratch. My older cousin is studying computer science at university, and she’s shown me some basic coding – it’s like solving puzzles, which I really enjoy.”
Why This Works: Shows forward-thinking, research about the school, and connection to current interests.
- “How do you balance schoolwork with your hobbies?”
Strong Answer Example: “I have swimming training twice a week and piano lessons on Saturdays. I’ve learned that if I do my homework as soon as I get home from school, I don’t feel rushed later. On Sunday mornings, I review everything for the week ahead and practice piano for an hour. My mum helps me keep a calendar so I don’t forget anything important.”
Why This Works: Shows time management skills, family support, and commitment to multiple activities.
Problem-Solving & Creative Questions
- “If you could create a new school rule, what would it be?”
Strong Answer Example: “I would create a ‘kindness buddy’ system where older students are paired with younger ones to help them settle in. When I started at my school, I felt quite lost, and it would have been wonderful to have someone to show me around and answer my questions. I think it would help everyone feel more included and confident.”
Why This Works: Shows empathy, personal experience, and consideration for others.
- “Would you rather have the ability to fly or be invisible?”
Strong Answer Example: “I’d choose flying because I love the idea of seeing the world from above and helping people. If there was an emergency, I could get help quickly, or I could explore places that are hard to reach. Being invisible might be tempting, but I think I’d feel lonely, and I prefer being part of things rather than just watching.”
Why This Works: Shows thoughtful consideration, helping others, and personal values.
School-Specific Questions
- “What excites you most about potentially joining our school?”
Strong Answer Example: “I’m most excited about your drama department and the fact that you put on a big production every year. I love performing and I’ve been in my primary school’s nativity play for three years running. I’d also love to try out for your debating team because I enjoy discussing ideas and hearing different viewpoints.”
Why This Works: Shows specific research about the school and clear interests.
- “Do you have any questions for us?”
Strong Answer Example: “Yes, I’d love to know more about the house system and how it works. Also, I noticed you have a school garden – do students get involved in growing the vegetables? And finally, what’s your favourite thing about working at this school?”
Why This Works: Shows genuine interest, engagement, and turns the interview into a conversation.
Preparing Your Child for the 11+ plus interview: The Academic Success Approach
At Academic Success, we believe preparation should build confidence, not anxiety. Here’s how to help your child prepare effectively:
Create a Comfortable Practice Environment
- Set up regular, relaxed practice sessions
- Make it feel like a conversation, not an interrogation
- Celebrate thoughtful answers, even if they’re not perfect
- Help your child understand that it’s okay to pause and think
Focus on Authenticity Over Perfection
Remember, schools want to meet the real child, not a rehearsed version. Encourage your child to:
- Share genuine interests and experiences
- Be honest about challenges they face
- Show their personality and sense of humour
- Ask questions they’re genuinely curious about
Build Confidence Through Knowledge
Help your child research the school by:
- Reading the school website together
- Discussing the school’s values and ethos
- Looking at photos of facilities and activities
- Talking about what genuinely interests them about the school
Common Interview Mistakes to Avoid
Through my years of experience, I’ve seen these common pitfalls:
- Over-rehearsing: Children who sound like they’re reciting memorized answers
- Negative responses: Criticizing current school or teachers
- One-word answers: Not elaborating on thoughts and feelings
- Showing off: Trying too hard to impress rather than being genuine
- Being unprepared: Not having researched the school or having questions ready
What to Expect on Interview Day
For Grammar Schools:
- Often more academic-focused questions
- May include current affairs or general knowledge
- Usually conducted by senior teachers or headteacher
- Emphasis on intellectual curiosity and academic potential
For Independent Schools:
- Broader range of questions about interests and character
- Often includes current pupils or recent graduates in the process
- May involve school tours or informal conversations
- Focus on overall fit with school community
Building Long-Term Confidence
Remember, the interview is just one part of your child’s educational journey. Whether they secure their first-choice place or not, the skills they develop through this process – clear communication, self-reflection, and confidence – will serve them throughout their school years and beyond.
At Academic Success, we’ve seen hundreds of children grow through this process. Some of our most successful students weren’t the ones who gave ‘perfect’ answers, but those who showed genuine enthusiasm for learning and resilience in the face of challenges.
Final Thoughts: Trust the Process
As parents, our role is to support and guide, not to create anxiety. Your child has already come so far in their 11+ journey. The interview is their opportunity to show schools who they are beyond test scores and written work.
Trust in their abilities, celebrate their unique qualities, and remember that the right school for your child is one that recognizes and nurtures their individual potential.
Need more support with your 11+ journey? At Academic Success, we provide personalized guidance for families navigating grammar and independent school applications. Our experienced teachers understand the pressures you face and are here to help your child build the confidence and skills they need to succeed.
Useful Links:
- 11+ Test Preparation Resources
- Grammar School Information
- Independent Schools Council
- Good Schools Guide
Have questions about your child’s 11+ interview preparation? We’d love to help. Contact us at Academic Success for personalized guidance tailored to your family’s needs.
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