For many parents, the summer holiday is too long a break… Children often get out of the study habit, making it more difficult to get back into the school mindset come September.
With only a week before most schools re-open for the autumn term, and with 11+ exams looming, it can help to get back into the swing of things now.
Here are some practical suggestions to help your child get ahead from the word go:
- Check ahead! Check which papers each school sets. Some local Grammar and independent schools, for instance, don’t set a non-verbal reasoning element, while others still do. Some test English and comprehension, while others set a creative writing challenge on top. If you are applying for several schools, it makes sense to check this as soon as possible.
- Have a trial run! Download or buy some test papers to try out. Strict timing is what affects many children’s chances of gaining entry to their first-choice school. So why not try out some papers set to time? This can also help you spot and improve on weak areas well before the exams.
- Learn the basics! Though the majority of schools don’t release previous papers, the same topics/skills crop up year in year out. Revising English and Maths basics will help no end.
Remember, passing exams is more a question of confidence than anything. So make sure that any prep includes plenty of praise and encouragement.
Of course, if your child needs some last-minute support, or exam technique practise, give us a call.
Our trusty tutors, spanning Cheshire and Manchester, have oodles of experience in helping children like yours not just pass their 11+ exams, but gain entry to the school of their choice too.
Tags: eleven plus, Grammar school entry, How to build confidence