Selective High School Entry Exams Decoded - All You Need to Know

What Parents Need to Know to Prepare Their Children for the Selective Exam

Preparing for the Selective Schools Entry Exam seems like a daunting journey, both for students and their parents. It’s not just about solving tricky math problems or acing reading comprehension—it’s about building confidence, fostering discipline, and creating a strategy that works for your child. Let us walk you through everything parents need to know to help their children succeed in this competitive exam.

Why Consider Selective Schools?

Let’s start with the "why." Why should you even consider selective schools?

The answer lies in the opportunities they offer. Selective schools are designed for high-achieving students who thrive in an academically challenging environment. They offer:

• Advanced Curricula: These schools often go beyond the standard syllabus, encouraging critical thinking and problem-solving.

• Like-Minded Peers: Students are surrounded by peers who are equally motivated, which can inspire healthy competition and collaboration.

• Pathways to Success: Many selective school graduates go on to excel in university and professional careers.

But it’s not just about academics. Selective schools often have excellent extracurricular programs, from music and sports to STEM clubs, giving students a well-rounded education.

When Should You Start Preparing?

The earlier, the better—but don’t panic if you haven’t started yet!

For most students, preparation begins at least 12–18 months before the exam. This gives them enough time to build foundational skills, identify weak areas, and practice under exam conditions. However, if your child is already in Year 5 or early Year 6, it’s not too late. A focused and consistent study plan can still make a big difference.

How to Assess Where Your Child Stands

Before diving into preparation, it’s important to understand your child’s current strengths and weaknesses. Here’s how you can do that:

1. Take a Diagnostic Test: Many online platforms offer free or paid diagnostic tests tailored to selective exams. These tests simulate the real exam and give you a clear picture of where your child stands.

2. Review School Performance: Look at their performance in subjects like English and mathematics at school. Are there any recurring challenges?

3. Talk to Your Child: Sometimes, kids know their own strengths better than anyone else. Ask them which areas they feel confident in and where they struggle.

This assessment will help you create a targeted preparation plan rather than wasting time on areas where your child is already strong.

Creating a Study Plan

A good study plan is the backbone of exam preparation. Here’s how you can create one:

1. Set Realistic Goals

Break down the preparation into smaller milestones:

• Month 1: Focus on building foundational skills (e.g., grammar rules, basic math concepts).

• Month 2–4: Dive into subject-specific practice (e.g., comprehension passages, essay writing).

• Month 5–6: Take mock tests and work on time management.

2. Balance Study with Breaks

Kids need downtime too! Make sure their schedule includes breaks for relaxation and hobbies.

3. Incorporate Variety

Mix up study methods—use practice books one day, online quizzes the next, and group discussions on another day.

4. Track Progress

Regularly review how your child is doing. Are they improving in weaker areas? If not, adjust the plan accordingly.

What Resources Should You Use?

Tutewiz offers specialised tutoring services for preparing for selective exams across Australia. More than 15 of our students have successfully qualified for a Selective School.

Typically engagements start an year in advance, at least, and we also have in-person Master Class sessions in Melbourne to handle last minute revision and doubt resolution.

Tutewiz has also created a Resource Centre for Selective Exam Preparation for the Victoria Selective Exams. In this Resource Centre, you will find a lot of relevant test practice materials and a premium test pack to power your preparation.

If your child needs extra help, consider hiring a Tutewiz tutor who specializes in selective exams.

Get a FREE Assessment and Join the Victoria Selective Exam Resource Centre today!

How Can Parents Support Their Child?

Your role as a parent goes beyond providing study materials—you’re also their cheerleader and emotional support system! Here are some ways you can help:

1. Create a Conducive Environment: Set up a quiet study space free from distractions like TV or loud noises.

2. Stay Positive: Encourage your child even when they struggle with tough questions. Remind them that mistakes are part of learning.

3. Teach Stress Management: Help them stay calm under pressure by practicing mindfulness techniques or simple breathing exercises.

4. Celebrate Small Wins: Did they finally crack that tricky math problem? Celebrate it! Small victories keep motivation high.

Common Challenges (and How to Overcome Them)

Here are some hurdles parents often face during preparation—and tips to tackle them:

1. Lack of Motivation

It’s normal for kids to feel unmotivated at times. Make study sessions fun by turning them into games or offering small rewards for completing tasks.

2. Time Management Issues

If your child struggles to balance schoolwork with exam prep, create a timetable that prioritizes both without overwhelming them.

3. Fear of Failure

Reassure your child that this exam is just one step in their journey—not the end-all-be-all of success.

Final Thoughts

Preparing for the Selective Schools Entry Exam is as much about mindset as it is about academics. Start early if possible, focus on consistent effort rather than cramming, and most importantly—support your child every step of the way.

Remember, every child is different. Some may breeze through practice tests while others need more time to build confidence—and that’s okay! With the right strategy and encouragement, your child can put their best foot forward on exam day.

Remember, you are not alone in this journey. Our expert team will assist you at each step.

Stay tuned for our next post where we’ll take a deep dive into each subject covered in the exam—starting with reading comprehension!