For parents, trying to get to grips with what’s involved in the eleven-plus can be a daunting task, especially when we realise what’s at stake.

To secure a place for your child in your preferred grammar school or independent school.

That’s because, unlike GCSEs and A-levels, there isn’t really an option for a resit to improve their grades.

Everything comes down to how they do in those tests.

Your child will take their 11+ test in year 6, then start in their next school in the following September of year 7.

Here are a few suggestions that might help your journey less stressful and one which you can enjoy (yes, 11+ prep can be fun!)

Understand the Test Format:

The first step in effective preparation is understanding the format of the school test.

Most school exams include sections on verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, mathematics, and English.

Some will set paper-based multiple-choice tests, others will set ‘open answer’ questions and others will use online testing programmes to select students for a place at their school.

Familiarizing yourself and your child with the specific topics covered in each section will enable targeted and efficient study sessions.

Start Early

Early preparation is crucial for success in school entrance tests.

Begin the preparation process well in advance to allow ample time for your child to master the material and build confidence.

Starting early also reduces stress and allows for a more gradual and thorough understanding of the concepts.

Different schools will require a different period of preparation so for some schools starting in year 5 might be okay, for others, you’ll need to have a plan that’s moving forward by year 3.

Practice Regularly

Consistent practice is key to mastering any skill, and school entrance test preparation is no exception.

Incorporate regular practice sessions into your child’s routine, focusing on each section of the test.

Use a mixture of practice tests, sample questions, and study materials provided by reputable sources to simulate exam conditions.

Be aware also that new test questions are often introduced, often with little advance notice, so make sure you’re not relying on old, out-of-date formats when preparing your child.

Focus on Weak Areas

Identify your child’s weaker areas and tailor your study plan to address those specific challenges.

Whether it’s verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, mathematics, or English, dedicating extra time to reinforce weak spots can significantly improve overall performance.

Few children will get through their tests without a strong all-round capability.

Encourage Reading

A strong foundation in reading is essential for success in grammar school tests.

I believe that reading is the best ‘free’ tutoring support your child can receive, providing those books are relevant and useful.

Encourage your child to read various materials, including fiction and non-fiction.

This not only enhances their vocabulary and comprehension skills but also exposes them to different writing styles and question formats.

Develop Time Management Skills

Grammar School tests are often timed, and effective time management is crucial.

Teach your child to allocate time wisely during practice sessions to ensure they can complete each section within the allotted time frame. Practice under timed conditions to build confidence and efficiency.

Seek Professional Guidance

Maybe this is the first time you’ve been involved in school entrance test preparation.

Or perhaps you’ve already gone through this with your older children and now have less free time to allocate to your next child’s test prep.

If you find the preparation process overwhelming, consider seeking professional guidance.

Tutors, whether group or 1-to-1, can provide personalised support, to help your child understand any challenging concepts and offer valuable tips and strategies.

Stay Positive and Supportive

Maintain a positive and supportive atmosphere throughout the preparation period.

Encourage your child, celebrate small victories, and remind them that effort and perseverance are key to success.

A positive mindset can make a significant difference in a child’s performance.

Seek out some support

I currently have a few spaces open for families looking to start online 1-to-1 tutoring in Nov, Dec or Jan, including some easy-start options for fast-movers.

A few fast-acting families have already taken advantage of this offer so only a few spaces remain open.

To find out more, let me know what year your child’s in and what school(s) you’re targetting and I’ll send you further details.