Advice needed for DS sitting Year 8 Entrance Exams whilst overseas

[Doryzurich]

Hello all - my DS needs to sit an entrance exam in 2 weeks time to get into boarding school for Yr 8 (this September), and I would love to help him prepare as he's never sat a test like this before. We're still living overseas and his school CV is looking a bit chequered...the last year has been in an International School, before that a German school for 3 years - so he (and I) have had no exposure to UK syllabus or 11+ exams.

School has said that he will need to write an english essay and sit a maths paper 'for his age group' - but I'm not sure what level this would be in the UK. I've found what looks like a great revision website by the BBC called 'Bitesize', but not sure if he should be doing KS3 questions or KS2..? The school isn't 'selective', but you need to get a minimum mark to get in (don't know what this is)

Can anyone please throw some light on how we could prepare for this? My DS really wants to get into this school, so is willing to put some work into it (for a change ).

Year 7 is the first year of KS3 so he should concentrate on that level.

However, it might be useful for him to try some 11+ papers and see how he gets on as they are typically the benchmark for entrance into private schools at year 7.
I would suggest you also post your question on the elevenplusexams.co.uk website on the Independents section. There will be plenty of parents there who can help you as well as mumsnetters.

Thanks Thenevernever - I'll do that

Something like this?

Thanks Bonsoir - unfortunately I'm going to need something on-line though as the exams are only in 2 weeks and it'll take over a week for the book to be sent to Switzerland (where we currently live).

Is it the Common Entrance he's sitting?

He should be easily doing 11+ papers, so all the KS2 questions, and a few things from KS3. You can look up the NC requirements online, or PM me.

English essay do you have any clue on the content? Different types of essay have different expectations on style.

IMO if he's been in a German school the maths is unlikely to be an issue but the English might be.

You could ask the publisher to send it by courier (DHL). It would be worth paying for, IMO, given what is at stake.

SFP - I don't think he's doing CE...think he's the year too early. No idea what the english essay will entail - but I'll call the school on monday and find out....didn't even think to ask, so thanks for that.

Bonsoir - you have a good point and the book looks great. Thanks again.

Ah sorry you said for Y8. My mistake! Same advice on the maths - all of KS2 and some KS3, but less than I initially thought because he's only halfway through Y7.