11+ tutoring in Milton Keynes: what you need to know about the Buckinghamshire grammar schools

If you live in Milton Keynes and you are considering grammar school for your child, Buckinghamshire is the most likely route. Schools like Aylesbury Grammar, Chesham Grammar, and Royal Latin in Buckingham are within reach for MK families and are among the most sought after state schools in the region.

Here is a practical guide to how it works and what preparation looks like.

The exam

All thirteen Buckinghamshire grammar schools use the same test, called the Secondary Transfer Test, provided by GL Assessment. Your child only needs to sit it once regardless of how many schools you apply to. The exam covers four areas across two papers: Verbal Reasoning and English in Paper 1, and Maths and Non-Verbal Reasoning including Spatial Reasoning in Paper 2. Both papers are multiple choice and each is around 45 minutes long.

The qualifying score is 121. Children who reach this score are considered suitable for grammar school. Places are then allocated based on distance, so living in Milton Keynes rather than within the county is worth factoring into your planning.

When to register and sit

Registration typically opens in May of Year 5 and closes in June. The exam itself is in September of Year 5, with results in October. This means preparation needs to be well underway by the summer term at the latest.

What preparation looks like

Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning are not taught in primary school, so most children need to learn the question formats from scratch. This is not about intelligence, it is about familiarity. Children who have seen the question types before and practised working under timed conditions perform significantly better than those who have not.

I have been preparing Milton Keynes children for the Buckinghamshire 11+ since 2020 and every child I have worked with has passed. If you would like to talk through whether grammar school is the right path for your child and what preparation would look like, I am happy to have that conversation for free.

📞 07523 434161 tom@tomsandersontutoring.com

The one habit that makes the biggest difference in 11+ preparation

After years of preparing children for the 11+, if I had to name the single habit that separates children who perform well on the day from those who underperform, it would be this: reading the question twice before answering.

It sounds obvious. It is not obvious to a ten year old sitting in an exam hall trying to work quickly through 80 questions in 40 minutes.

The 11+ is designed to catch children who rush. Questions are carefully worded to trip up pupils who skim read. In Verbal Reasoning especially, the difference between the right answer and a convincing wrong answer is often one word in the question.

Here is how I build this habit in sessions:

First, we slow right down. Before speed comes accuracy. There is no point completing 80 questions quickly if 30 of them are wrong because the child misread what was being asked.

Second, we practise underlining the key instruction in each question. What is it actually asking? Which word? Which number? Which shape comes next?

Third, once accuracy is consistent, we introduce timing. At that point speed tends to come naturally because the child is no longer second guessing themselves.

If your child is in Year 5 and already doing practice papers, check their working. Are they rushing? Are they making careless errors on questions they actually know how to do? That is the habit to fix before exam season.

Feel free to get in touch if you want to talk through where your child is with their preparation.

📞 07523 434161 tom@tomsandersontutoring.com

Is my child right for grammar school? Questions every parent asks

If you have a child in Year 3 or Year 4 and grammar school has started appearing on your radar, you are probably asking yourself the same questions most parents ask at this stage.

Is my child clever enough? Will the pressure be too much? How do I even know if it is worth trying?

Here is what I tell parents honestly, having prepared children for the 11+ since 2020.

Grammar school is not just for the top 1% of children. It is for children who are curious, who enjoy a challenge, and who, with the right preparation, can demonstrate their ability on the day. Many children who pass would not have passed without preparation. Many children who do not sit would have sailed through with a bit of support.

The 11+ tests four areas: Verbal Reasoning, Non-Verbal Reasoning, Maths, and English. None of these is beyond a bright, motivated Year 5 child. But most of them, especially Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning, are not taught in primary school. Children need to learn the format before they can perform in it.

The best thing you can do at this stage is not panic, not start drilling your child with practice papers, and not write it off before you have explored it. Have a conversation with someone who knows the exam and can give you an honest assessment of where your child is and what is realistic.

That conversation is free with me. No pressure, no obligation, just a straightforward chat.

📞 07523 434161 | tom@tomsandersontutoring.com

What is Verbal Reasoning and why does my child need it for the 11+?

If your child is preparing for a grammar school entrance exam, you have probably seen the words Verbal Reasoning on the syllabus and wondered what on earth it actually means.

Verbal Reasoning is essentially the ability to understand and reason using words. The 11+ tests it because grammar schools want to see how well a child can think with language, not just how much they have memorised.

In practice, the questions look at things like: finding words with similar meanings, spotting patterns in letter sequences, working out which word completes a sentence, or identifying the odd one out in a group of words.

The tricky part is that most children do not encounter this style of question in school at all. That is why so many children find it unfamiliar at first, even very bright ones. It is not that they cannot do it. They just have not seen it before.

The good news is that Verbal Reasoning is very learnable. With the right practice and a bit of time, most children pick it up quickly and start to enjoy the puzzle-like nature of the questions.

If you would like to find out how your child is getting on with Verbal Reasoning, I offer a free, no obligation first conversation.

📞 07523 434161 tom@tomsandersontutoring.com

When should you start preparing for the 11+?

It is one of the most common questions I get from parents in Milton Keynes. The answer depends on your child, but here is what I have found works well after years of supporting families through the process.

Most children benefit from starting preparation around Year 4, so roughly 12 to 18 months before the exam. It is about giving them enough time to get comfortable with the style of questions, especially Verbal Reasoning and Non-Verbal Reasoning, which most children have never seen before in school.

Starting too late is the biggest mistake I see. Families sometimes come to me in Year 5 with only a few months to go and while we can absolutely still make progress, it puts unnecessary pressure on the child. The 11+ rewards familiarity and calm, not panic.

Here is a rough guide to what each stage looks like:

Year 4: Introduction to the format, building confidence, identifying strengths and gaps with no pressure.

Early Year 5: Regular practice, working through past papers, building stamina for timed conditions.

Late Year 5: Focused exam technique, working under timed conditions, addressing any remaining weak spots.

If your child is already in Year 5 and you have not started yet, do not panic. Get in touch, and we will figure out the best plan for where they are right now.

📞 07523 434161 tom@tomsandersontutoring.com

Correcting mirrored numbers: Tips and Techniques

I’ve noticed that some children write their numbers mirrored. From research and experience supporting children, here are a few tips that might help. It can be frustrating to see, particularly if a child’s peers don’t appear to have this problem. However, it’s important to remember that most children grow out of this phase. Be patient and gently remind them of the correct way to write numbers.

1. Use Multi-Sensory Techniques

Encourage your child to trace numbers in sand, shaving cream, or with their finger in the air. This helps reinforce the correct formation through tactile and kinesthetic feedback. It’s a fun and engaging way for them to learn, and it can make a big difference in how they remember the shapes of the numbers.

2. Provide Visual Aids

Display number charts and posters where your child can easily see them. This constant visual reinforcement can help them remember the correct orientation of numbers. You can even make it a creative activity by letting them help decorate the charts, making it a part of their learning environment.

3. Practice with Large Movements

Have your child write numbers on a large surface, like a whiteboard or chalkboard. Larger movements can help them understand the correct direction and shape of the numbers This can be especially helpful for young children who are still developing their fine motor skills.

4. Use Dot-to-Dot Activities

Provide worksheets where your child can connect dots to form numbers. This can guide them in the correct formation and orientation. It’s like a puzzle for them to solve, which can make the learning process more enjoyable and less stressful.

5. Mirror Writing Awareness

Explain and show your child what mirror writing looks like compared to the correct way. Sometimes, simply making them aware of the difference can help them self-correct. You can turn it into a game where they spot the differences between correctly written numbers and mirrored ones.

It’s important to highlight that seeing your child struggle can be frustrating for some parents. However, remember that children are learning to be human and mastering all the skills humans possess from scratch. They’ll get there in their own time.

6. Consistent Practice

Regular, short practice sessions are more effective than infrequent, longer ones. Consistency helps reinforce learning and correct habits. Try to incorporate these practice sessions into their daily routine, but keep them short and sweet to maintain their interest.

7. Positive Reinforcement

Praise your child for their efforts and improvements, no matter how small.  Positive reinforcement can boost their confidence and motivation to keep practicing. Celebrate their successes with stickers, a small treat, or simply a big hug and words of encouragement.

8. Use Technology

There are educational apps and games designed to help children practice writing numbers correctly. These can make learning fun and engaging. Look for apps that are interactive and provide instant feedback, which can help them learn more effectively.

9. Handwriting Programs

Consider using structured handwriting programs that provide step-by-step instructions and practice for writing numbers and letters. These programs often come with workbooks and guides that can be very helpful in providing a consistent approach to learning.

10. Professional Support

If the issue persists, consulting with an occupational therapist or a specialist in handwriting can provide tailored strategies and support. These professionals can offer specific exercises and techniques that are designed to address your child’s unique needs.

Remember, most children do grow out of writing numbers mirrored. Patience and gentle reminders are key. Celebrate their progress and continue to support them with these techniques.

URLs Referenced on This Page

  1. https://theconversation.com/understanding-childrens-mirror-writing-87948
  2. https://parentry.com/what-is-mirror-writing-in-children-and-what-to-do-with-this
  3. https://www.teachstarter.com/gb/blog/why-students-reverse-letters-a-guide-for-teachers-mirror-writing-au-2/
  4. https://psychology-spot.com/mirror-writing/
  5. https://www.teachstarter.com/us/blog/why-students-reverse-letters-a-guide-for-teachers-mirror-writing-2/
  6. https://exploringyourmind.com/mirror-writing-causes-and-solutions/
  7. https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20230405-why-do-some-people-mirror-write

New Resources for Parents on Tom Sanderson Tutoring!

I’m excited to share that I’ve added a new section to my website specifically for parents! This section is designed to provide you with valuable information and support to help you navigate various aspects of parenting.

You can explore the new resources here: https://tomsandersontutoring.com/resources-for-parents/

Here’s a sneak peek at what you’ll find:

  1. Universal Credit Information for Parents: This resource provides essential information on how Universal Credit can assist you and your family. Whether you’re new to Universal Credit or looking for updates, this guide will help you understand the benefits and how to access them.
  2. What to Do If Your Child Is Ill and You Have a Tutoring Session: Life happens, and sometimes your child might fall ill on the day of a tutoring session. This resource offers practical advice on how to handle such situations, ensuring that your child’s education remains a priority without compromising their health.

I hope you find these resources helpful and supportive. Feel free to share them with other parents who might benefit from this information!

Let me know what other resources you’d like to see by leaving a comment below.

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Why a Personal Tutor Might Be Right for You!

Choosing the right support for your child’s education is crucial. Here’s why Tom Sanderson Tutoring could be the perfect fit for you:

Personalized Attention
A personal tutor tailors lessons to your child’s specific needs, ensuring they get the most out of every session.

Strong Relationship
Building a one-on-one relationship helps your child feel supported and motivated, making learning more enjoyable.

Flexibility
Personal tutors can adapt their teaching methods to suit your child’s learning style, whether they need more visual aids or hands-on activities.

Immediate Feedback
With a personal tutor, your child gets instant feedback, helping them understand and learn from their mistakes right away.

Love of Learning
A personal tutor can make lessons engaging and fun, fostering a genuine love of learning in your child.

Consistency
Having a dedicated tutor means consistent support and accountability, leading to better study habits and academic performance.

Conclusion
Investing in a personal tutor is an investment in your child’s future, providing the focused attention and care they need to thrive academically.

Why not book your first session today? Email me at tom@sandersontutoring, or call me on 07731 662675

http://www.tomsandersontutoring.com

Why a Personal Tutor is Better Than a High Street Tutoring Centre!

When it comes to your child’s education, choosing the right support can make all the difference. While group tutoring sessions have their place, a personal tutor offers a unique and highly effective approach that can truly benefit your child. Here’s why:

Personalized Attention

One of the most significant advantages of hiring a personal tutor is the individualized attention your child receives. In a one-on-one setting, the tutor can tailor lessons specifically to your child’s needs, strengths, and weaknesses. This personalized approach ensures that your child is not just another face in the crowd but the focal point of every session.

Building a Strong Relationship

A personal tutor has the opportunity to build a strong, trusting relationship with your child. This connection can make a huge difference in your child’s learning experience. When a tutor genuinely cares about your child’s progress, it fosters a positive learning environment where your child feels supported and motivated to succeed.

Flexibility and Adaptability

Personal tutors can adapt their teaching methods and materials to suit your child’s learning style. Whether your child is a visual learner, prefers hands-on activities, or needs extra time to grasp certain concepts, a personal tutor can adjust their approach accordingly. This flexibility is often lacking in group sessions, where the pace and style are set to accommodate multiple students.

Avoiding the “One-Size-Fits-All” Approach

In some high street tutoring centres, students are often given workbooks or standard materials that may not address their specific needs. Unfortunately, this “one-size-fits-all” approach can leave some students struggling or bored. A personal tutor, on the other hand, can create customized lesson plans and activities that engage your child and target their unique challenges.

Immediate Feedback and Support

With a personal tutor, your child receives immediate feedback on their work, allowing them to understand mistakes and learn from them right away. This instant support helps reinforce learning and build confidence. In group sessions, the tutor’s attention is divided, and students may have to wait for feedback, which can hinder their progress.

Encouraging a Love of Learning

A personal tutor can inspire a genuine love of learning in your child. By making lessons enjoyable and relevant, a tutor can help your child see the value in their education and develop a lifelong passion for knowledge. This is often more challenging to achieve in a group setting, where the tutor must cater to a diverse range of interests and abilities.

Accountability and Consistency

Having a personal tutor means there is someone consistently monitoring your child’s progress and holding them accountable. This consistent support can lead to better study habits, increased motivation, and improved academic performance. In contrast, group sessions may lack this level of accountability, as the tutor’s attention is spread across multiple students.

Conclusion

While group tutoring sessions can be beneficial, the personalized approach of a personal tutor offers distinct advantages that can significantly enhance your child’s learning experience. From tailored lessons and immediate feedback to building a strong, supportive relationship, a personal tutor can provide the focused attention and care your child needs to thrive academically.

Investing in a personal tutor is an investment in your child’s future, ensuring they receive the best possible support to reach their full potential.