Practice papers: how many is too many

Parents often ask how many practice papers is enough. The honest answer: as many as your child can review properly.

The review rule

Every paper should take as long to review as to sit. If that is not happening, the paper is being wasted.

A sensible pattern

One paper a fortnight from January of Year 5, rising to one a week from the summer term. Short topic practice fills the other days.

Signs of too much

• Reluctance that was not there before.
• Scores falling despite more practice.
• Tears or stomach aches before sessions.

The aim

A child should arrive at the exam having done enough to feel familiar, not so much that they are exhausted. Confidence is worth more marks than an extra ten papers.