11+ Parents Guide
A comprehensive guide to supporting your child through the 11+ journey. From preparation strategies to emotional support, everything you need to know.
Core Principles for Success
Supportive Environment
Create a positive, stress-free learning atmosphere at home
- Celebrate small wins and progress
- Maintain regular study routines
- Provide a quiet, dedicated study space
- Show interest in their learning
Balanced Approach
Balance academic preparation with play and relaxation
- Limit study time to avoid burnout
- Include physical activities and hobbies
- Ensure adequate sleep and nutrition
- Plan regular family time
Growth Mindset
Foster resilience and a love of learning
- Praise effort over natural ability
- Treat mistakes as learning opportunities
- Encourage curiosity and questions
- Model lifelong learning yourself
Communication
Maintain open dialogue about feelings and progress
- Listen to their concerns and worries
- Discuss goals and expectations together
- Communicate with teachers regularly
- Be honest about the process
11+ Preparation Timeline
Early Preparation (Year 4)
12-18 months before exams
Structured Learning (Year 5)
6-12 months before exams
Intensive Practice (Year 6)
3-6 months before exams
Final Preparation
1-3 months before exams
How to Support Your Child
Academic Support
- Help with homework organization
- Review practice test results together
- Explain difficult concepts in simple terms
- Connect learning to real-world examples
- Use educational games and apps
- Read together daily
Emotional Support
- Acknowledge their feelings and concerns
- Share stories of your own challenges
- Teach relaxation and breathing techniques
- Maintain perspective on outcomes
- Celebrate effort and improvement
- Plan fun activities as rewards
Practical Support
- Create a consistent daily routine
- Organize study materials and resources
- Manage exam registrations and deadlines
- Arrange transport to test centers
- Prepare healthy snacks and meals
- Research backup school options
Motivation Support
- Set achievable short-term goals
- Track progress visually with charts
- Connect with other parents
- Focus on personal best, not comparisons
- Remind them of their strengths
- Keep the bigger picture in mind
Recommended Study Schedule
A balanced approach to daily and weekly preparation
Morning (30-45 mins)
Subjects: Mathematics, English
Benefits: Fresh mind, better concentration
Tips: After breakfast, before school activities
After School (20-30 mins)
Subjects: Verbal Reasoning, Practice Questions
Benefits: Reinforces daily learning
Tips: After snack and short break
Early Evening (30 mins)
Subjects: Non-Verbal Reasoning, Reading
Benefits: Relaxed pace, family support
Tips: Before dinner, with parent help
Weekend (60-90 mins)
Subjects: Practice Tests, Review Week's Work
Benefits: Longer focus periods
Tips: Morning sessions work best
Overcoming Common Challenges
Test Anxiety
Solutions:
- Practice relaxation techniques together
- Simulate exam conditions at home
- Focus on preparation rather than outcomes
- Teach positive self-talk strategies
- Consider professional support if severe
Loss of Motivation
Solutions:
- Vary study methods and materials
- Take regular breaks and holidays
- Connect learning to their interests
- Adjust goals and expectations
- Consider if the pressure is too high
Peer Pressure
Solutions:
- Discuss different paths to success
- Focus on their individual journey
- Limit comparisons with other children
- Emphasize their unique strengths
- Build confidence in other areas
Time Management
Solutions:
- Create visual schedules and routines
- Break study sessions into smaller chunks
- Use timers for focused work periods
- Balance study with other activities
- Teach prioritization skills
Choosing the Right School
Key factors to consider when selecting schools
Academic Standards
- Exam results and league tables
- Teaching quality and methods
- Class sizes and teacher ratios
- Range of subjects offered
School Culture
- Values and ethos alignment
- Pastoral care quality
- Diversity and inclusivity
- Discipline and behavior policies
Practical Factors
- Location and transport links
- School fees and additional costs
- Uniform and equipment requirements
- After-school care options
Child's Fit
- Learning style compatibility
- Social and emotional needs
- Extracurricular interests
- Future aspirations alignment
Recommended Resources
Books & Materials
- CGP 11+ practice books
- Bond Assessment Papers
- GL and CEM past papers
- Subject-specific workbooks
- Mental math apps and games
Online Resources
- Academy11 practice platform
- BBC Bitesize KS2 content
- 11+ online practice tests
- Educational YouTube channels
- School-specific preparation sites
Professional Support
- Private tutoring
- Small group classes
- Educational consultants
- Mock exam services
- Interview coaching
Frequently Asked Questions
When should we start preparing?
Most experts recommend starting preparation 12-18 months before the exam, typically in Year 4. This allows for gradual skill building without overwhelming your child.
How much study time is appropriate?
For Year 5 students, 30-45 minutes daily is sufficient. Year 6 students might need 45-60 minutes, but quality is more important than quantity.
Should we hire a tutor?
Tutoring can be beneficial, especially for specific weak areas or exam technique. However, parental support and quality resources are often sufficient for motivated children.
What if my child isn't enjoying the process?
Consider reducing pressure, varying study methods, or taking a break. The 11+ should enhance your child's education, not cause significant stress.
How do we handle exam day nerves?
Practice relaxation techniques, ensure a good night's sleep, arrive early, and remind your child that you're proud regardless of the outcome.