At this point, this is the most asked question related to the 11 Plus exam. Parents are often concerned about when their children should start 11 Plus exam preparation so they can achieve the desired grades and secure positions in the top grammar schools.
This blog explores in detail when your child should start preparing for the 11 Plus exam and the pros and cons of starting the preparation in Years 3, 4, 5 and 6.
When is the Right Time to Start Preparing for the 11 Plus Exam?
- Generally, Year 5 is a good time to start the 11 Plus exam preparation, as it gives students enough time to cover the entire 11 Plus syllabus and do effective revision.
- With highly qualified, DBS-checked tutors and regular mock exams, 11 Plus online tuition services prepare students in years 3, 4, and 5 for the 11 Plus exam.
Year 3
If your child starts in Year 3, they will have enough time to:
- Cover all key subjects, including Maths, English, Verbal Reasoning and Non-verbal Reasoning, without rushing.
- Develop exam techniques such as stress management, time management, problem-solving and logical thinking.
- Take unlimited practice tests and mock exams.
- Your child can even make use of engaging and interactive methods, because they will have substantial amount of time.
Year 4
It is a great idea to start 11 Plus exam preparation in Year 4 because it gives your child enough time to:
- Cover all key 11 Plus subjects including Maths, English, Verbal and Nonverbal Reasoning.
- Focus on developing exam techniques.
- Another benefit is that starting preparation in Year 4 is balanced, giving children enough time to learn without the risk of burnout.
Year 5
Some parents might think starting in Year 5 is late. No, it’s not the perfect time to start the 11 Plus preparation.
- Starting in Year 5 is beneficial for quick and focused learners.
- In year 5, children are mature enough to understand the complex concepts
Year 6
- It is not advisable to start preparation in Year 6. Your children have less than a year in Year 6 to prepare for the highly competitive 11 Plus exam.
- This is the time for last-minute revision and not for the complete 11 Plus exam preparation.
Benefits of Starting 11 Plus Preparation Early
The following are the top benefits of starting 11 Plus exam preparation early:
Master Key Subjects: Not all core subjects are easy. Starting 11 Plus exam preparation soon allows your child to master complex Maths, English, Verbal and Nonverbal Reasoning topics.
Gives Your Child Time to Master Exam Techniques: Mastering exam techniques is crucial to excelling in the 11 Plus exam for grammar schools. Starting 11 Plus exam preparation soon allows your child to master key exam techniques.
Reduces Last-minute Stress and Anxiety: Starting 11 Plus exam preparation early gives your children enough time to prepare effectively, which reduces exam stress and anxiety.
Take Practice Tests and Mock Exams: When your child starts 11 Plus exam preparation early, they have enough time to take unlimited practice tests and mock exams.
Boost Confidence: Children who start preparation early are generally well prepared, so it boosts their confidence.
Conclusion
When Should My Child Start Preparing for the 11 Plus Exam? It depends on your child’s learning abilities, style, and goals. Starting the 11 Plus exam studying early in Year 3 or 4 gives your child a competitive edge and enough time to cover all key subjects and develop exam techniques like time and stress management.
