Transfer Test – How to make sure my child is getting the right preparation

This year’s Primary 6 children who wish to gain entry to one of Northern Ireland’s 65 selective grammar schools are already well into their preparations for the November transfer tests. As any parent who has already been through the process will tell you it is often a stressful experience for children. From the point of view of a teacher who has been helping parents and children negotiate the transfer minefield for the past 18 years, I would say that if your child is able and willing and you plan carefully to make sure you have given them ample opportunity to learn the curriculum and practise their exam technique, then you can get through the process without heartache.

How do schools teach the Transfer Test?

Schools do not have a uniform approach to the tests. The Department of Education does not provide guidance on what should be taught and how much time should be spent on it. The Department of Education instructs schools to teach the Key Stage 2 curriculum. The approach varies widely between schools. While some schools may provide children with practice papers and spend time in class sitting, marking and going over as many as two tests per week, many others do not. SEAG, who administers the tests, state that the tests follow the Key Stage 2 curriculum.

Schools also have to consider the children who do not wish to sit the transfer test. Parents whose children aren’t sitting the tests have every right to feel concerned about the teaching and learning their children are receiving during test preparation time and schools have to consider this very carefully. Some schools get around this by offering after-school classes for those sitting the test.

Should I get a tutor for my child?

Whatever your child’s school is doing it is important to consider your options. They will need practice in exam technique. This instruction is going to come from either, the class teacher, a parent/guardian or a private tutor. Consider whether you are able to help your child prepare yourself. Order some practice papers from our website. Are you able to answer the maths and English questions correctly? Can you explain how to get the answers to your child? Make sure you are up to date with current maths teaching methods. Many things have changed since you were at school! If you are in any doubt then consider getting a private tutor to take the stress away.

On Target Resources Transfer Test Practice Papers

On Target SEAG Transfer Test Practice Papers are designed to mirror the actual tests your child will sit in November 2025 in Northern Ireland. We provide: