If your child is in Year 4, the 11+ is still around two years away. That's not a reason to start drilling practice papers — but it is a golden opportunity. The skills that take longest to build, like vocabulary and reading stamina, grow best slowly, and Year 4 is the perfect time to start them gently.
Build foundations and habits, not exam technique. If it feels like hard work every night, you're doing too much.
What to focus on in Year 4
1. Reading — lots of it
The single best thing you can do. Aim for 20 minutes of reading most days, and gradually stretch the difficulty. Keep reading aloud together too — it lets your child enjoy books slightly above their own reading level. Our 11+ reading list has ideas to start with.
2. Vocabulary — a few words a day
Vocabulary is the slowest 11+ skill to build and the one that pays off everywhere. Five minutes a day with a spaced-repetition app, or a "word of the day" on the fridge, adds up to hundreds of words by Year 6. Talk about new words you meet in books and conversation.
3. Spelling and handwriting
Secure the Year 3 and 4 spelling patterns and statutory word lists from school. If your child's 11+ includes a writing task, neat, fluent handwriting will matter later — and it's far easier to improve now.
4. Times tables and mental arithmetic
Rapid, confident times-table recall is the foundation of 11+ maths — and of the number sequences and codes in verbal reasoning.
5. Grammar basics
Make sure word classes (nouns, verbs, adjectives, adverbs), capital letters, full stops, commas in lists and apostrophes feel secure. These underpin all the SPAG work that comes later.
6. Word games and puzzles
Word searches, crosswords, anagrams, Scrabble, "I spy", code-breaking puzzles — all quietly build the thinking skills of verbal reasoning without feeling like study.
7. A daily learning habit
A short, regular slot — after breakfast, say, or before screen time — makes the more structured work of Year 5 feel normal rather than a sudden new demand.
What not to do in Year 4
- Don't start timed practice papers. They test skills your child hasn't built yet and can knock confidence.
- Don't make it a battle. Negative feelings about learning now can last all the way to exam day.
- Don't cut out clubs, sport and play. They build confidence, resilience and — importantly — things to write about.
- Don't compare with other children. Every child develops at a different pace.
Things for parents to do in Year 4
- Research your options. Find out which grammar or independent schools are realistic, and which 11+ test they use. Our exam boards guide explains the differences.
- Visit open days to get a feel for schools — for you and your child.
- Note key dates: registration usually opens in the spring or summer of Year 5.
- Plan Year 5. Read when to start 11+ preparation for a month-by-month timeline.
A sample Year 4 week
| Day | Activity (10–15 min) | Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Mon | Vocabulary flashcards | Reading |
| Tue | Times tables | Reading |
| Wed | Vocabulary + spelling words | Reading |
| Thu | A word game or puzzle | Reading |
| Fri | Vocabulary flashcards | Reading together |
| Weekend | Free — library trip, board games | Reading for fun |
Elevenplus FC is built for Year 4 to Year 6. Younger children can start with the free vocabulary flashcards and games — short, fun daily sessions with streaks and badges — and grow into comprehension, SPAG and verbal reasoning in Year 5.
Frequently asked questions
Is Year 4 too early to start 11+ preparation?
It's too early for intensive practice papers, but it's an ideal time to build the foundations that matter most: reading, vocabulary, spelling, times tables and a daily learning habit.
How much time should a Year 4 child spend on 11+ preparation?
Keep it light — 10 to 15 minutes of focused practice a few times a week, plus daily reading for pleasure, is plenty. The goal is enjoyment and habit, not pressure.
Should I get an 11+ tutor in Year 4?
Most children don't need one in Year 4. Reading together, talking about words and light practice at home build the right foundations. If you do use a tutor, look for one who keeps it fun and skills-based.