Blog - Top Tips from Tracey Phelps

Top Tips from Tracey Phelps

Our Pass Your 11+ series was edited by Tracey Phelps, an established 11+ tutor. Tracey has helped hundreds of children prepare for the 11+ exam. Here are some top tips from Tracey to help parents prepare their child.

1. As part of the long-term strategy, and from an early age, I would strongly recommend encouraging your child to read. I believe that this advice applies to every child, whether they are hoping to go to grammar school or not, but it becomes especially important regarding the 11 Plus.

2. Reading allows your child to expand his or her vocabulary beyond the typical range of topics; as the adage goes, reading truly does broaden the mind. In general, it is better to allow your child to choose his or her own reading material, as it will ultimately become frustrating if they come to see reading as a chore.

3. I encourage all the parents I work with to play word games on the school run and make learning entertaining through using engaging workbooks. As a rule, I don’t advise on making the sessions too arduous. Try to make learning fun and sit with your child whilst they work.

4. Ensure tuition and learning times suit your child; aim for a time when they are not tired or over excited about some activity that they might be doing later in the day. Create a positive learning environment by getting into a routine where children actively want to learn. Too much pressure and not enough encouragement may mean children view 11 Plus practice as a chore.

5. Switch up learning by using different methods or short diversions to help embed learning and make practice less monotonous.