summer holidays learning

Can my child still enjoy summer holidays while preparing for the 11 Plus ?

The 11 Plus exam for grammar schools takes place in September. The summer holidays in July and August are the best time to balance 11 Plus preparation and effectively revise for the 11 Plus exam. Summer holidays are a time for students to relax, so parents look for a balanced approach and a preparation plan for their children, allowing them to enjoy themselves and prepare for the 11 Plus exams.

Yes, children can still enjoy summer holidays while preparing for the 11 Plus exam by creating an effective study schedule, including breaks in their 11 Plus study sessions, and making effective revision and preparation plans. This blog explores the effective strategies for enjoying summer holidays while preparing for the 11 Plus exams. 

Why are the summer holidays an Important time for 11 Plus preparation?

Summer holidays are considered a golden time for 11 Plus preparation and revision due to the following reasons:

  • No school homework, so children have more free time
  • No academic pressure
  • Freedom to build a custom study routine
  • No school distractions 

How to Enjoy Summer Holidays while Preparing for the 11 Plus?

The following are the effective techniques to help your child not miss out on the fun while preparing for the 11 Plus exam in the summer holidays. 

  1. Create a Flexible Summer Study Time Table

Make a fun light study schedule. Do not go for long study sessions. They are exhausting. Study for a half hour, then take a small break where your child enjoys their favourite activity. 

  • Create a study schedule based on your child’s preferences.
  • Add breaks to the study schedule to relax your child’s mind and fresh.
  • Include mock exams and practice tests in your child’s study schedule for effective 11 Plus revision. 
  • No study on Sunday.
  1. Use Effective 11 Plus Revision Resources 

Instead of using many resources and prolonging 11 Plus preparation and revision, use fewer but effective resources to help your child prepare for the grammar school entrance exam. 

  • Mock Exams: Mock exams are a highly effective resource. Taking mock exams familiarises your child with the exam format and boosts confidence. 
  • Practice Tests: Practice is the key to success. Practice tests provide your child with unlimited practice and boost their confidence, which can eventually lead to improved 11 Plus scores. 
  • Online Tutoring: Online 11 Plus tutoring platforms offer intensive summer booster courses for quick and effective 11 Plus revision. Enrol your child in the best online summer holiday course for 11 Plus led by experts, which includes daily live mock tests with instant checking and feedback.
  • Past Papers: You must have heard from a tutor or fellow parent that past papers are your child’s best friends when preparing for 11 Plus exams. They are highly effective in preparing for the exam. 
  1. Make Learning Fun

We live in the age of technology, and with the advent of so many engaging tools and technologies, learning no longer has to be boring. This summer, make your child’s 11 Plus revision sessions fun and engaging using the following resources: 

  • Video tutorials
  • Flashcards
  • Colourful notes
  • Maths games
  1. Incorporate Learning into Daily Life

Another effective way to enjoy summer holidays while preparing for the 11 Plus exams is to incorporate study into your daily fun activities. 

For example, you can boost your child’s 11 Plus Maths skills by asking them to measure ingredients for a recipe, calculate the total amount for groceries, etc.

After coming from a summer vacation adventure, ask your child to pen down their whole experience to boost their English comprehension skills. 

  1. Prioritise Rest

Summer holidays are for relaxation and getting ready for the post-vacation academic challenges, so encourage your child to prioritise rest along with 11 Plus preparation and revision.

  • Sleep 6-8 hours daily
  • Go for outdoor adventures
  • Read your favourite book
  • Play with your friends
  • Spend time with your family 

Conclusion

The 11 Plus exam for grammar school entry takes place around September every year. Summer holidays, which are a time for relaxation, are considered a golden time for effective 11 Plus revision for students aiming to secure positions in their dream grammar schools. Your child can enjoy summer holidays while preparing for the 11 Plus exams by making a balanced study schedule, taking regular breaks, using quick, effective 11 Plus revision strategies and incorporating learning into daily life. 

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