Preparing for the 11+
By Ann Francis, Drake Tutors
Preparing for the 11+ is an intense time, but a short time, which can feel never-ending and overwhelming.
We live in one of a few areas to provide the opportunity for Grammar school, selective education, in the country.
It takes talk, thought and stamina to support young people through to sitting the 11+. Some families decide to invest in group or individual tuition; others decide to pursue this journey on their own.
Although, quite rightly, Grammar schools would much prefer their prospective students not to be over-prepared for the 11+, the reality is, we all long for the best possible opportunities for our children. The transition from Primary to any Secondary education is a life change, a stepping stone to another educational journey and ultimately to fulfil life goals as thoughtful, confident and resilient adults.
How best to support your children leading up to the 11+
- Carefully choose and purchase a set of 11+ practice books for English and mathematics along with a practice paper pack.
- These materials will become the core for familiarization, along with a consistent approach to using them.
- Choose a quiet place with little disturbance or noise for a set time to focus on tasks set.
- How and when your child works best: two or three ‘sit down’ sessions a week to begin with, using the practice books. There is plenty of advice to accompany the books, but generally increasing the concentration and application time is good preparation for sitting the exam. The sessions and time spent could then increase.
- Using a have-a-go approach, with time to go through the completed tasks together, may suit your child best. Alternatively, sessions could start supportively, gradually moving to have-a-go.
There is plenty of good advice and guidance with the practice books.
The practice papers are best completed in pencil, so they can be repeated, to improve scores and familiarity. Once stamina and focus using the practice books has reached 1 hour, then the practice papers can be used and repeated.
You really do not want your child to peak too soon; start with small steps and increase time/sessions/independence gradually. After February half term is a good time to introduce the practice papers, whilst continuing to use the practice books.
About Easter time, keep an eye on Grammar schools websites for 11+ timescales and the opportunity to take part in mock papers. The 11+ will take place over two Saturday mornings, onsite, in the Autumn Term at the beginning of your child’s Year 6.
Giving this nurturing support will ease your child into a way of working and gently integrate an 11+ focus into their weekly routines.
Of course this is not a definitive approach, we are all individuals. However, the approach to 11+ practice will greatly support your child through the rest of their academic life, by providing appropriate time and space, increasing concentration and independent approaches to learning.
Having the opportunity to take the 11+ is a privilege, a challenge and should provide the opportunity for your child to approach learning as a breeze. The 11+ should not be onerous; please remember and repeat the mantra, 'learning is fun'! The rewards may be in the destination, but even if they are not, then the journey will be an adventure.