Preparing for the 11+ exams can be a challenging experience for both parents and children. At Dukes Tutoring, we frequently receive questions about the best way to prepare children for these important exams.
In this guide, we’ll cover effective strategies and practical tips to ensure your child is fully prepared for the 11+ exams, from practice to mindset.
1. Practice with Past Paper
One of the most effective ways to prepare for the 11+ exams is through practice. Familiarising your child with past papers helps them understand the exam format and the types of questions they will encounter. Practising timing is equally important as it ensures your child spends the appropriate amount of time on each section.
2. Take an 11+ Mock Exam
To simulate the exam experience, taking an 11+ mock exam is crucial. Our successful 11+ mock exam is designed specifically for Year 5 students preparing for their 11+ secondary school entrance exams in Year 6. The mock exam consists of four key areas: verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, maths, and English. By sitting all four tests in one day, students develop essential time-management skills and learn to stay calm even if they face unfamiliar question types.
The mock exams are carefully crafted by 11+ experts and teachers with experience creating official exam papers. These exams mimic the challenges and standards that children will face in the actual 11+ selective secondary school exams.
After the mock exam, your child will receive a detailed report on their performance, along with recommendations for revision and areas that need improvement.
3. Create a Study Routine
Every child is different, so it’s essential to tailor the study routine to fit your child’s natural rhythm. If your child is more focused in the morning, consider starting study sessions early with a lunch break in between. Alternatively, if they work better in the evening, a larger break during the day followed by focused study in the evening can be effective. Regular breaks and time for recreation should also be included to avoid burnout.
4. Build Confidence with Consistent Revision
To optimise revision, focus on varying subjects each evening. Begin with subjects your child finds most challenging and finish with those they enjoy. This method helps ensure that the more difficult topics are tackled first, followed by the ones your child feels more confident about. Regular revision across all subjects is key to strengthening their understanding and retaining important concepts.
5. Prepare for Exam Day in Advance
On the day before the exam, make sure everything is organised. Plan the route to the exam centre, and if possible, do a test run to gauge travel time. Ensure your child knows exactly what to bring and check the rules and requirements for the exam. If you’re unable to visit the exam centre beforehand, write down clear directions and add extra time to account for any potential delays.
6. Proper Nutrition and Hydration
Your child’s nutrition plays a key role in maintaining energy and focus during the 11+ exams. Choose nutritious foods that support brain function, such as fish, nuts, seeds, yogurt, and blueberries. On the day of the exam, encourage a slow-release energy meal before the test to keep their energy levels stable throughout the day. Avoid sugary foods, which may cause a sudden energy crash.
Additionally, staying hydrated is essential for cognitive function, so make sure your child drinks plenty of water during both their revision and the exam day itself.
7. Mindset and Relaxation
Encourage your child to practice relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, to calm any nerves before the exam begins. Help them understand that some anxiety is normal and can even be helpful in keeping them focused and sharp during the test. Reassure them that it’s okay to feel anxious and that many students experience the same emotions.
8. Special Consideration for Illness
If your child feels unwell during the exam, remind them to notify the teacher in charge. In many cases, students experiencing legitimate illness may be granted special consideration or additional support during the exam.
9. Additional Support for Your Child
If you feel your child would benefit from extra help, our 11+ tutoring services are designed to support students in preparing for the 11+ exams. Our expert tutors will work with your child to strengthen their exam techniques, boost their confidence, and ensure they are fully prepared for the challenges ahead.
For more information on how our 11+ tutoring services can benefit your child, contact us today. Let us help your child succeed in their 11+ exams with tailored support and expert guidance.
If you’d like additional support for your child, contact us about our 11+ tutoring services today.