Starting the 11+ Journey: A Guide for Parents
The 11+ examination is a critical milestone in your child’s education, determining whether they secure a place at a grammar or independent school. The process can be challenging, but with the right preparation, your child can approach the exam with confidence. Here at KSOL, our team of qualified teachers have produced a guide to help you navigate the 11+ journey.
- Understand the Basics
The 11+ exam assesses English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning, and Non-verbal Reasoning. Depending on your region and the schools you’re considering, the exam’s content and structure may vary. It’s crucial to research the specific requirements for each school and region, whilst building the key foundations in each subject. When enrolling onto a KSOL online programme, each child’s course is personalised, tailored to their unique areas for improvement.
- Start Early, but Not Too Early
When to Start:
A common question many parents have is, “When should we start preparing?” While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer, our expert tutors recommend starting the programme in the Winter term of Year 3. This timeline allows your child to gradually build their skills without feeling overwhelmed. It’s about striking the right balance – consistent preparation over time, rather than last-minute cramming.
- Make a Plan
Once you decide to start, create a study timetable. Breaking down subjects into topics and allocating specific times for each ensures that all areas are covered. This schedule can change as you gauge your child’s strengths and weaknesses.
- Practice Makes Perfect
When enrolling onto a KSOL programme, anything your child gets wrong in their daily tests is stored in their ‘history tab’. Utilising this history tab on a regular basis will highlight areas that need improvement and build your child’s confidence.
Both our KSOL in-person and online 11+ Mock exams for children in Year 5 are designed to reduce anxiety and nerves ahead of the big day. They’re a valuable tool to familiarise your child with the exam environment.
- Nurture the Whole Child
Remember that while academic preparation is essential, it’s also crucial to ensure your child’s well-being. Engage them in physical activities, play, and hobbies to provide a balanced routine.
- Visit Potential Schools
This will give you and your child a sense of the school environment and can provide a significant motivation. Open days are an excellent opportunity for this, as they often given valuable information sessions about the 11+ process.
- Stay Informed
Requirements can change, and it’s essential to stay updated. During your child’s time at KSOL, our tutors keep you constantly updated with how they’re getting on, with weekly or fortnightly progress reports. Frequent communication is key, and our qualified tutors are here to contact directly regarding your child’s 11+ journey.
- Be Prepared for Results Day
Whatever the outcome, be there to support your child. If they achieve their desired results, celebrate their hard work. If not, remind them that there are many paths to success and that this is just one step in their educational journey.
- Reflect on the Journey
Once the 11+ process is over, reflect on the journey. Celebrate the hard work, resilience, and effort. Regardless of the outcome, the skills and discipline your child has acquired during the 11+ preparation will benefit them in their future educational endeavours.
The 11+ journey is as much about the process as it is about the result. With careful planning, consistent effort, and unwavering support all provided by KSOL, you can guide your child through this significant milestone with confidence.
!