Starting 11+ preparation in Year 4 does not mean doing full mock exams every week. For many families, Year 4 is a good time to build strong foundations without turning preparation into a stressful routine.
What to focus on in Year 4
- Reading: read a wide range of fiction and non-fiction and discuss unfamiliar words.
- Vocabulary: learn synonyms, antonyms, precise adjectives and words in context.
- Maths: secure fractions, decimals, percentages, problem solving and mental arithmetic.
- Reasoning: introduce verbal and non-verbal reasoning gradually if relevant to the target schools.
- Study habits: practise little and often and learn to check answers.
How much practice?
Short, regular sessions are usually easier to sustain than long sessions. The aim at this stage is confidence and breadth. Timed work can be introduced later once the child is comfortable with the underlying skills.
Avoid the biggest mistake
Do not let practice become a race for higher scores. Strong reading, accurate arithmetic, vocabulary and reasoning habits provide a better base for more focused Year 5 preparation.