How can I prepare my child for entering Key Stage 2?

[Updated in 2020]

A child's educational journey is full of new experiences, excitement, and a fair amount of nerves. No matter how much your child loves school, there are still some fairly daunting moments along the way.

One of the most intimidating times of a child's school life is when they move into a new key stage. This can be starting in reception, right through to entering secondary school.

While these are often thought of as two of the most daunting times for a child, the move from infant to junior school can also be a big change.

While infant school does involve schoolwork and tests, Year 3 onwards sees children given a lot more responsibility, and a greater challenge.

So how can you help your child prepare for Key Stage 2?

Prepare them for homework
If your child's school introduces homework at Key Stage 2, it is a good idea to make sure your child is well-prepared to manage the extra work.

The idea of doing schoolwork at home can become a stressful task, so sit down with them at first to help them through it, and establish a regular homework time so it becomes routine.

Get them used to tests
Key Stage 2 will be the second time that your child will be tested in exam conditions, the first time being in Year 2. Year 6 SATs may create more pressure for your child, since they may need certain results to get into their secondary school of choice.

So to prepare your child for sitting their SATs in Year 6, make sure they are accustomed to answering questions in silent exam conditions.

Your child's school is likely to do this in the run-up to the SATs too, but it always helps to make sure they are as comfortable as possible when they take their SATs.

Lots of encouragement
Making the transition to Key Stage 2 is a big leap for children, ensure they know how well they are doing by giving them plenty of encouragement.

By reassuring them that they are doing well, you will incresase the child's self-confidence and help them to face new challenges head-on.