Top Tips from ‘Demystifying the 11+, 13+ and Pre-tests’

We would like to share some exclusive insights with you from our fantastic ‘Demystifying the 11+, 13+ and Pre-tests’ event.

How to choose the right school:

• Go with your gut instinct and ask yourself if you would be happy there as a parent.
• Consider the importance of the location and travel logistics.
• Look for a school that suits your child now, don’t start from an imagined future.
• When choosing between co-educational and single-sex schools, the differences are often exaggerated. It is more important to look for a school that is well-run.
• When considering the right entry point, if there is a healthy number of places available, 13+ is recommended for preparatory school pupils to flourish and take up responsibilities such as being a prefect.

Interview advice:

• Children should voice their enthusiasm to get involved in all areas of school life.
• It’s normal for children to be shy at interview but being kind, keen and polite are the key attributes that interviewers will be looking for.

How to support your child’s well-rounded education:

• Read stories as often as possible
• Encourage regular family meals
• Ensure the youngest is heard as much as oldest
• Praise effort as much as outcome
• Notice their interests and encourage hobbies
• Know the names of your child’s friends
• Be consistent
• Plan simple outings – for example, visiting one painting in one gallery
• Encourage experiences of the natural world – a walk by the sea
• Love them unconditionally and tell them so often

Don’t ‘chase the brand’ of a school

Mr Pettitt expressed his intentions to ‘detoxify’ the 11+ and advised parents to ‘retain perspective’. Mr Thomas echoed this sentiment and advised parents to look for a nurturing environment that would meet the needs and interests of their children now and not to ‘chase the brand’ of a school. Dr Ricks reassured parents that their children will be happy if they ‘go with their gut instinct’ when selecting a senior school.

The overarching message of the event highlighted that successful preparation goes beyond practising exam technique. The key lies in finding a healthy balance in order to prepare, but not overwhelm, your child when applying for senior schools.