By Jess Bonfante, Tutor at Hyde Tutoring
Preparing your child for school entrance exams can feel daunting, particularly with so many different entry points (7+, 8+, 9+, 10+ and 11+) and varying expectations between schools. However, with the right approach, preparation can be calm, gradual, and a positive experience for both you and your child.
This guide outlines how to approach entrance exam preparation effectively, with a particular focus on the earlier stages (7+ to 9+), where building strong foundations is key.
When should you start preparing?
One of the most common questions parents ask is when to begin. The short answer is: earlier than you might think – but gently.
For younger entry points such as 7+ to 9+, preparation should focus on:
- developing strong core skills in reading, writing, and maths
- building familiarity with problem-solving
- gradually introducing children to the format of assessments
It is worth bearing in mind that entrance exams often assess skills beyond those covered in the national curriculum. Children are usually expected to demonstrate a higher level of understanding, particularly in comprehension, writing, and problem-solving.
Starting early allows your child to develop these skills naturally, without feeling rushed as exams approach. It also gives you the flexibility to move at a steady pace and consider sitting exams when your child is ready.
Choosing the right entry point
Deciding whether to aim for 7+, 8+, 9+, or later entry depends on both your child and the schools you are considering.
Earlier entry points can offer several advantages:
- a more gradual transition into the independent sector
- less intense competition compared to 11+ in some cases
- more time for your child to settle and build confidence in a new environment
Many families wisely choose to begin preparing early, even if they plan to sit exams at a later stage. The key is to consider your child’s readiness, confidence, and long-term school journey.
Different approaches to preparation
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to entrance exam preparation. Most families find that a combination of approaches works best:
- Supporting your child at home
Helping your child develop small, consistent habits can make a significant difference over time.
You can support your child by:
- encouraging regular reading and discussing texts together
- practising core maths skills little and often
- developing problem-solving skills through puzzles and games
- maintaining a calm, positive approach to learning
Focusing on a few key areas can also make a noticeable difference:
- reading widely to build vocabulary and comprehension
- securing core spelling and grammar foundations
- building fluency in times tables
- practising word problems, which are often the most challenging in exam settings
Useful resources include:
- Atom Learning and Century Tech for adaptive online learning
- BBC Bitesize, Topmarks, Anton and Spelling Shed for interactive activities and games
- Bond, CGP, and Schofield & Sims workbooks for structured written practice
Using a mix of interactive activities and more traditional, paper-based resources can be particularly effective, as it keeps children engaged and helps learning feel varied and enjoyable.
- 1:1 tutoring
Many families choose to include 1:1 tutoring as part of their child’s preparation, particularly as expectations increase.
Working with an experienced tutor can help to:
- identify and address gaps in understanding
- develop higher-level skills beyond the standard curriculum
- strengthen exam technique
- provide personalised guidance and reassurance
This can be especially valuable in the lead-up to exams, though starting earlier can help to build strong foundations over time.
- Group learning and holiday workshops
For many families, structured group learning – particularly in the form of holiday workshops – provides a helpful and reassuring starting point.
These sessions balance core skill development with an introduction to exam technique in a structured environment. Your child is gradually exposed to exam-style questions, helping them to become familiar with different formats and expectations.
They are led by experienced tutors with a strong track record of preparing children for entrance exams. The feedback provided offers valuable insight into your child’s current level, highlighting strengths, identifying gaps, and guiding next steps. It can also include informed guidance on suitable school choices and whether your child may benefit from aiming for a later entry point.
Workshops also include mock exams under timed conditions, helping children become comfortable with exam settings from an early stage.
Why mock exams matter
Mock exams play an important role in preparation, particularly as assessments approach. In fact, success in entrance exams is often as much about exam technique as it is about mastery of subject knowledge. Children may understand the material well, but still struggle without practice in timing, question interpretation, and structuring their responses.
Mock exams help your child to:
- become familiar with exam conditions
- practise managing their time effectively
- build resilience
- apply their knowledge in a structured setting
A balanced approach
Perhaps the most important thing to remember is that preparation should feel steady and manageable.
With the right balance of support – at home, through tailored guidance, and in structured group settings – you can help your child approach entrance exams with confidence and clarity. For many families, beginning with a well-structured holiday workshop provides a gentle and effective introduction to the skills required, even if exams are planned for a later stage.