Have I left it too late to start 11+ prep?

[LawyerMumAsia]

My child is going into year 5 in September and we didn’t do any 11+ prep this summer - partly because I started a new job over the summer which has been quite intense and the children have been put into various (fun and sporty and stimulating) camps. Feeling v guilty for not prioritising education. They have had maths tutor lessons weekly but that’s about it..

In Kent most start beginning of year 5. That's still a whole year before the test.

You’re right, I should have been more specific in my comment. CEM no longer do 11+ but some schools have chosen to write their own and emulate the style so the CEM resources are still the most suitable.

My niece started with her tutor in Year 4, working towards grammar schools, but on seeing her potential and due to a change in circumstances, my brother and his wife decided to apply and start the private school prep in Year 5. She got in to 2 grammar and 2 private schools and we are super pleased with her! Did miss the mark with 1 but was waitlisted and you can't have it all.

Happy to speak to my brother about the prep they did if that helps anyone - can also find out the tutor details too so PM me if interested.

It depends on intended school/ area/ age and ability of child. I’ve been tutoring for all the ‘+ ‘ exams for years ..too many variables.

Starting in Year 5 is fine. You wouldn't believe the number that leave it until about a month before the exams!

Definitely not too late. We started tutoring after Christmas in Year 5 and first exams were quite early in Y6 - October? State primary school so some topics to cover from scratch. We were offered all 3 private schools (including a good scholarship at one) and a very selective grammar. Obviously it depends on the starting point and reaction to exams etc. tutoring helped fill in gaps, and with speed which was a key component for some exams. Helps if you have a tutor who is familiar with the specific exams to focus learning in the right direction. We found individual tutors more effective than group.