I decided to pen down this article to share the tried-and-tested free 11+ resources that proved effective in preparing my daughter for the grammar school exam. These resources, not only free but also interactive, have left a significant impact on not just her exam readiness but also contributed to her overall development. Join me as I explore these invaluable tools that have made a real difference in our 11+ journey.
Our sights were set on Kendrick, and with the exam taking place in September 2023, the journey has been both exciting and challenging. I've navigated through various online tools, YouTube channels, and live sessions, seeking the most effective resources to empower my daughter's 11+ preparation.
Sheena Ager's free weekly online Vocabulary classes
Sheena Ager, the mastermind behind The Cadwaladr Chronicles/Quests, extends an invaluable resource for 11+ preparation through her free weekly vocabulary and comprehension sessions. Catering to Year 3-4 students every Saturday at 5 PM and Year 5 students every Sunday at 5 PM, Sheena's sessions provide an enriching learning experience.
To participate, children need the corresponding book for the chosen session, creating a focused and immersive environment. The session links, distributed on Sheena's Telegram group 30 minutes before the lesson, ensure easy access. With a requirement for cameras to be on for effective learning, these live sessions prioritise engagement and participation.
An exceptional feature is the non-recording policy, emphasising the live and interactive nature of the classes. My daughter attended Sheena's sessions for over a year and a half, and the impact on her vocabulary and comprehension skills has been remarkable. Sheena Ager's commitment to enhancing language skills is evident in these dynamic and rewarding sessions, making them a valuable asset in the 11+ preparation toolkit.
Robert Lomax's Live YouTube videos
Discovering Robert Lomax's free 11+ resources has been a game-changer in preparing my daughter for the challenging 11+ exams. His YouTube channel, Easy 11 Plus, is a treasure trove of educational content.
Every Tuesday at 6 pm, Robert goes live to guide students through meticulously crafted worksheets covering English, maths, creative writing, and non-verbal reasoning (NVR). The engaging sessions not only simplify complex topics but also provide valuable insights into exam strategies.
I've found the official Facebook page, RSL Educational, to be an excellent hub for staying updated on upcoming sessions and accessing additional materials. Robert's commitment to helping students excel in the 11+ exams is truly commendable, making Easy 11 Plus a must-follow resource for any parent navigating this crucial academic milestone.
The only drawback I've noticed in Robert Lomax's live sessions is the open chat feature, where unrelated comments, sometimes from poorly behaved individuals, can distract from the subject. To address this, I simply make the screen full to eliminate these distractions. On a positive note, recordings of the sessions are also available for offline viewing, ensuring a focused and interruption-free learning experience.
Exam Happy Mobile App
The Exam Happy App has proven to be an invaluable ally in my daughter's 11+ preparation journey. This free app, available for download, offers a range of resources that complement traditional study methods. The bi-weekly 11+ sheets covering Maths, English, VR, and NVR are a great way to reinforce key concepts.
The app's automatic marking feature, employing the same technology as real 11+ exams, not only saves time but also provides immediate feedback. I particularly appreciate the video explanations for incorrect answers, enhancing the learning experience.
While the free worksheets arrive every two weeks, the option to subscribe and unlock additional sheets allows for a more frequent practice schedule. The Exam Happy WhatsApp group fosters collaborative learning, offering a platform for in-depth discussions and providing a valuable benchmark to gauge your child's progress against peers. The app seamlessly combines convenience and effectiveness, making it an essential tool for any parent navigating the 11+ journey.
Empower Me 11Plus
Another invaluable free 11+ resource in our toolkit was the Empower Me 11plus platform, a specialised and comprehensive Verbal Reasoning (VR) Online Learning Platform designed to excel in 11+ VR exams. While the platform typically operates on a subscription basis, our experience stems from the free 11+ VR trial, which we utilized for a limited period. During the three-month trial, Patricia, my eldest, found the platform immensely helpful. Empower Me offers an extensive range of vocabulary, including synonyms and antonyms, along with well-structured tests. What stood out was the detailed explanations provided for incorrect answers, enhancing the learning experience and contributing significantly to Patricia's VR preparation.
I want to emphasise that my endorsement of these free 11+ resources is purely based on personal experience and preference. I am not affiliated with any of the mentioned platforms, nor have I been prompted to promote them.
The effectiveness of these resources for us stems from their alignment with my daughter's schedule – tuning in for Robert Lomax's live sessions on Tuesday evenings, practising vocabulary with Sheena every Saturday, incorporating Exam Happy's free worksheets into our Friday routine, and utilising various 11+ books throughout the week from different publications such as Bond, CGP, EEP, and more. These choices have been instrumental in our 11+ journey, and I share them with the sole intention of aiding fellow parents in their pursuit of effective exam preparation.
Having completed the 11+ journey with my eldest, Patricia, I am now embarking on the same path with my younger daughter, Selena. If you have come across any valuable resources that have aided your child's preparation, I would love to hear from you.
Feel free to drop your recommendations or share your experiences in the comments below. Together, we can make the 11+ preparation process a collaborative and enriching experience for all. Happy learning!