Kew College Prep Director of Studies Juliet Tovey and Head of Pastoral Care Robyn Hodgson discuss the school’s well-rounded approach to supporting 11+ preparation

In the competitive landscape of education, the 11+ exam looms as a significant milestone for students and parents alike. While the 11+ exam process is often viewed as a stepping stone to academic success, it carries with it a significant influence on the wellbeing of students. The intricate web of expectation, competition, and preparation can place a unique strain on young minds, raising concerns about the broader impact on their mental health.

At Kew College Prep, we have created a nurturing and personalised 11+ programme for our Year 5 and 6 pupils, which is designed to support and guide them through exam preparation and interviews, as well as ensuring they are well prepared for life at senior school. This is led by an experienced team who get to know each pupil and understand their strengths, offering them tailored support and helping them reach their full potential. This not only eases the stress associated with exam preparation but also allows students to develop a genuine love for learning.

Alongside a tailored learning programme, each pupil receives pastoral support and is encouraged to understand that they may receive positive or negative news on the back of exams. Staff reassure children that they can speak to a teacher if they want to share their feelings around results. They also encourage them to be mindful of friends who may not have positive news. Our knowledgeable team also work alongside families to help with the selection of the right senior school to suit each child’s talents.

“We encourage children to continue with activities that they enjoy. These give children a way to take a break from exam and interview preparation”

The focus on wellbeing and resilience doesn’t just happen in the older years. Conversations around emotions and feelings are encouraged from Nursery and Reception at Kew College Prep, with all classrooms equipped with worry monsters and worry boxes where pupils are encouraged to share their feelings.

Children have lessons in PSHE to support their understanding of emotional regulation and are taught mindfulness and grounding techniques. Each classroom is equipped with a calm-kit and children are encouraged to use the Zones or Regulation to help identify how they feel. There is an open dialogue between pupils and staff – laying a firm foundation for mutual respect between staff and pupils and an environment where all pupils are listened to and feel valued.

By the time the children reach Years 5 and 6, they are well equipped with the skills and vocabulary to discuss their feelings and concerns. During 11+ exam preparation, some children can find that hobbies or activities fall by the wayside. At Kew College Prep, we encourage children to continue with the sports, music, art or drama activities that they enjoy. These not only help to form well-rounded pupils, but also give children a way to release any stress or anxiety and take a break from exam and interview preparation.

The results of our 11+ programme speak for themselves, with our 2022-2023 Year 6 pupils receiving offers from 28 selective independent and grammar schools and 27 scholarships. Overall, the most important measure of success for us is the happy, accomplished and balanced pupils that leave, well prepared for life at senior school, and we have those in abundance.

Kew College Prep kewcollegeprep.com

Further reading: Teaching tomorrow’s skills

11+ Feature Featured Kew College Prep Pastoral Care prep