11+ Preparation in Year 3 and Year 4

Build strong foundations early without pressure. Focus on skills, confidence, and consistent learning habits.

Early preparation is about building skills — not exam pressure.

When Should Children Start?

Preparation can begin in Years 3 and 4, but it should not involve formal tutoring or intensive exam practice.

The focus should be on developing strong foundations in English and Maths.

Build strong academic foundations
Keep learning stress-free
Focus on long-term confidence

Core Skills for Future 11+ Success

Vocabulary & reading comprehension

Accurate spelling

Writing ability

Grammar & punctuation

Basic maths operations

Logical reasoning & patterns

Building Vocabulary Through Reading

Reading is the most powerful way to improve vocabulary.
Fiction books
Non-fiction
Magazines
Online reading

Improving Spelling Skills

Understand tricky word differences like: Wales vs whales, their / there / they’re

Encouraging Creative Writing

Use interesting vocabulary
Add descriptive language
Structure (beginning-middle-end)

Maths Foundations

Number Bonds

Build quick mental maths skills

Times Tables

Master up to 12 × 12 by Year 4

Logical Thinking

Symmetry
Rotation
Spatial awareness
3D shapes

Building Positive Study Habits

Show interest in learning

Talk about school daily

Praise effort

Celebrate progress

Strong foundations in Years 3 & 4 lead to confident 11+ success in Year 5.