Grammar schools are a type of selective secondary school in the United Kingdom that focuses on academic achievement and ability.
There are around 163 grammar schools across the UK located in England. To get into a grammar school, children have to pass the 11-plus. The 11-plus is a test covering various topics, including English, maths, verbal reasoning, and non-verbal reasoning. The test is sat by children in Year 6 (the last year of primary school), and the results determine whether they will attend the grammar school or the secondary modern school.
There are a few things that you can do to help your child prepare for the 11-plus and get into a grammar school. If you are a parent with a child looking to enter UK grammar schools, you may find these tips helpful.
Do Some Research About the Entry Tests
The first thing that you need to do is find out which type of entry test your child will be taking. There are two main types of tests: the CEM (center for evaluation and monitoring) and the GL (general ability) tests. The CEM test is used by around 60% of grammar schools, while the other 40% use the GLtest. Once you know which test your child will be taking, you can start to look at practice papers and work out a study plan.
Start Preparing Early
It is never too early to start preparing for the 11-plus. There are several ways that you can help your child get ready for the test, even if they are still in primary school. One way to help them is to buy practice papers and work through them together. This will give them an idea of what the test will be like and help them identify areas they need to work on. You can also encourage them to read as much as possible, which will help with their vocabulary and comprehension skills.
Talk to the School
If you are worried about your child’s chances of getting into a grammar school, talking to the school is a good idea. They will be able to give you advice on how to help a child and also provide necessary materials for preparing for the Eleven Plus exam. These papers are created by experts and have been used by many to achieve their goals across the country. Therefore, you can rest assured knowing your child is only getting the best. It is also worth talking to other parents who have children taking the 11-plus. They can share their experiences and give you advice on what has worked for them.
Use a Tutor
If your child is struggling to prepare for the 11-plus independently, you may want to consider getting a tutor. A tutor can help them understand the material and give them one-on-one support. Several tutoring companies offer 11-plus tuition, so you will need to research and find one right for your child.
When choosing a tutor for your child, it is vital to ensure that they are experienced in teaching the 11-plus. It would be best if you also asked for a free trial lesson to see how your child responds to the tutor and their teaching style.
Do Some Practice Tests
Practice tests are a great way to help your child prepare for the 11-plus. There are several different practice tests available, both online and in books. Doing practice tests will help your child get used to the test format and identify any areas they need to work on. It is essential to make sure that you use practice tests similar to the 11-plus, giving your child the best chance of success.
Help Your Child Relax
One of the most important things that you can do to help your child is to help them to relax. The 11-plus can be a stressful experience, so it is crucial to ensure that your child is as relaxed as possible. You can do this in different ways. The most effective option is helping them get a good night’s sleep and ensuring that they eat a healthy diet. You should also avoid putting any pressure on them, making the situation worse.
Help Them Take Advantage of Any Available Programs
Several programs can help your child get ready for the 11-plus. These programs are usually run by the local authority or the grammar school itself. They typically offer classes that go over the examinable content.
If your child is eligible, it is worth taking advantage of any available programs. These programs can help your child familiarize themself with the exam content associated with the 11-plus and give them the best chance of success.
Prepare Them Mentally and Emotionally
As well as preparing your child academically, it is also essential to prepare them mentally and emotionally for the 11-plus. Most students preparing for the test often suffer mental and emotional stress, which is normal with any exam. It is your duty as a parent to ensure that they are as relaxed as possible by ensuring that they get enough sleep and eat a proper diet. It would be best if you also resisted the urge to put your child under pressure.
Seek Professional Test Prep Services
Using professional test preparation services is another option for parents with children looking to join a grammar school in the United Kingdom. These services usually involve a series of classes that teach the material covered in the test.
Your child also benefits from practice tests, which help them get ready for the tests and improve their chances of joining grammar school. Test prep services can be expensive, so it is essential to do your research to find one that is right for you.
You can do several things to help your child prepare for the 11-plus. These include doing practice tests, allowing them to relax, and talking to the school. You should also seek out any available programs and services to help your child. Finally, it is crucial to prepare your child mentally and emotionally for the test. By following these tips, you can give your child the best chance of success in the 11-plus.
