If your child is sitting the 11+ in September, the summer holidays can feel like a ticking clock. Every parent at the school gate seems to have a different plan, and every one sounds more intense than yours.
Take a breath. A good 11+ summer is not about cramming. It is about steady practice, confidence and a well rested child on test day.
Start With Where Your Child Is Now
Before you plan anything, find out what your child already knows. A timed practice paper in each area tested by your local exam (often English, maths, verbal and non verbal reasoning) will show you their strengths and gaps.
Check which test format your area or school uses, as this varies. Practise with the right style of paper so there are no surprises.
A Simple Weekly Rhythm
Aim for about an hour a day, five days a week, with weekends mostly free. A balanced week might look like this:
| Day | Focus | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | Maths topic practice | 45 to 60 minutes |
| Tuesday | English comprehension and vocabulary | 45 to 60 minutes |
| Wednesday | Verbal and non verbal reasoning | 45 to 60 minutes |
| Thursday | Creative writing | 45 to 60 minutes |
| Friday | Timed mixed paper, then go through mistakes together | 60 minutes |
Keep sessions in the morning when energy is high, and finish on something your child can do well.
Do Not Forget Creative Writing
Many independent and some grammar schools include a creative writing task. It is often the area children practise least, yet it is one where steady practice shows real improvement. Encourage your child to write regularly about anything: holidays, days out, stories inspired by books they love.
Focus on a strong opening, vivid description and a clear ending, rather than length.
Build in Proper Rest
A tired child does not learn well. Protect at least one full week of holiday with no 11+ work at all. Plan days out, see friends, read for pleasure and let your child be ten.
Watch for signs of stress, such as tummy aches, poor sleep or tears over practice. If they appear, ease off. Confidence matters more than one extra paper.
The Final Weeks Before the Test
In the last two weeks, stop introducing new topics. Focus on timed papers, exam technique and keeping calm. Do a practice run of the test day morning, including the journey, so nothing feels unfamiliar.
What You Cannot Control
You cannot control the questions on the day, the pass mark, or how other children perform. You can control whether your child walks into that room feeling prepared, rested and loved.
Whatever the result, your child is so much more than one test. The work ethic and confidence they build this summer will serve them wherever they go to school.
Read next: How to Talk to Your Child About Their School Report and 11+ Test Season: How to Support Your Child in the Final Weeks.
Support for your child’s 11+ journey:
For children aged 7 to 13:
- Geek School Tutoring: small group and online 11+ tuition
- 11 Plus Essay: 11+ creative writing courses and marking
- Independent School Interview: interview preparation
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