08/09/2026
I’ve shared a few academic and topic-based 11+ tips this week, but I wanted to do one last one for parents too.
Here are three things I think they really need to hear:
1. “Feeling nervous doesn’t mean you’re not ready.”
It simply means that this matters to them. They can feel nervous and still do brilliantly. Channel those nerves into focus.
2. “You don’t need to get every question right.”
Some questions will feel difficult, and that is completely normal - it’s a really hard exam. If they get stuck, remind them to take a breath, make their best choice and move on. One tricky question doesn’t mean the rest of the exam is going badly.
3. And most importantly: “We’re proud of all the effort you’ve put in, whatever the result.”
I say this a lot but make sure they know that your love, pride and belief in them will never depend on a score.
At this stage, calm, confidence and reassurance are far more valuable than last-minute cramming. They’ve already worked hard and should feel proud of themselves.
And finally, well done to parents if your child is taking it this week!
Navigating the 11+ can be really tough, and I know how much goes into supporting a child through it. Whatever the result, you will deal with it together. It won’t define your child or your parenting.
Lots of luck to every child taking the exam this week, and thank you so much to everyone who has followed my posts along the way this year. If you’ve found them helpful, please share them with another parent. If you’re thinking about the 11+ for a future year, you can find details of my course through the link in my bio.
Kate x
