Preparing for Maths in the AQE 11+ format requires a different approach from generic Maths revision. The format dictates which question types appear, which techniques are rewarded, and which topics are most tested.
Where this combination is used
AQE Maths is used in Northern Ireland by the schools that opted for the AQE Common Entrance Assessment over the GL-derived PPTC. Children sitting these tests benefit from format-specific preparation rather than generic Maths work — the gap between a child who knows the underlying maths or English and one who knows the format-specific question idioms is routinely 10 to 15 standardised points.
What Maths looks like in AQE
AQE has three Saturday papers in November, each containing both English and Maths. Maths is graded on the NI primary curriculum, which differs slightly from England's KS2. The questions tend to follow predictable patterns once you have seen enough of them, which is exactly the case for systematic format-specific practice over scattergun "11+ workbook" purchases.
Highest-leverage topics
AQE Maths emphasises mental arithmetic, ratio and proportion, percentages, and basic algebra. The number of questions per paper is high relative to the time available.
Common mistakes
The most common mistake is pacing across three papers. Many children peak on the first paper and drop on the second and third — practise sitting full timed papers on consecutive Saturdays before the live test. The pattern across many tutoring practices is the same: children who score middle-of-the-road on practice papers usually have one or two recurring error types rather than broad weakness. Identify those, drill them specifically, and the score moves quickly.
Recommended practice rhythm
Use AQE's own published practice papers — they are the only fully accurate format. Supplement with NI-curriculum maths workbooks rather than English KS2 ones; the syllabuses do not perfectly overlap.
Cross-references
For wider context on the AQE format, see the dedicated AQE format guide. For broader Maths preparation, see the Maths deep-dive. To find practice papers in this format, browse all Maths papers on the site.