How to Best Support Your Child During Selective School Preparation: Expert Tips for Parents

As a parent, you’re probably feeling the pressure of helping your child prepare for the selective school exam. You’re not alone. Many parents in Sydney feel anxious, especially when the competition is fierce and the stakes are high. But here’s the thing—your support can be the game-changer in your child’s journey.

At James An College Eastwood, we’ve helped countless students excel in selective school exams by empowering both students and their families. Here’s how you can offer maximum support without overwhelming yourself or your child.

1. Create a Structured Study Routine

It’s easy to get lost in endless hours of study, but what your child really needs is structured learning. Break down their study time into manageable chunks, focusing on one subject at a time. Effective planning is half the battle won.

Tip: Use a Study Planner to allocate specific time for practice tests, reviewing weak areas, and working on timed sections like verbal reasoning and math problems.

2. Focus on Practice with Purpose

When it comes to selective schools, it’s not just about knowledge—it’s about how efficiently your child applies that knowledge under pressure. Get them practicing under exam conditions, not just casually working through problems.

At James An College Eastwood, we provide mock tests that replicate the exam experience to build confidence and familiarity with selective school test formats. Learn more about our selective school trial test courses here.

3. Manage Anxiety – Yours and Theirs

It’s normal for both parents and children to feel anxious, but how you manage it makes all the difference. Encourage breaks, physical activities, and remind your child that the test is just one step in their academic journey and not the destination.

“A calm parent equals a calm child.” Your anxiety can easily become theirs. Stay supportive without pushing too hard, and remember, your child’s well being is the priority.

4. Enlist Expert Help When Needed

Selective school preparation can be tough to navigate on your own. That’s why expert guidance can lighten the load for both you and your child. Our personalised programs at James An College Eastwood are designed to target the exact areas where your child needs the most help, ensuring they’re exam-ready.

Here’s what a parent had to say:

"Cannot recommend these guys highly enough. We had only 9 months to get our daughter ready for the HS selective exam. Came in and met with Michelle, who was very upfront with our expectations. We worked hard together and she got into her selective school of choice! Credits to Michelle, Jason, and the teaching team at James An Eastwood." 

• Lisa : Google review 

5. Stay Informed and Involved

Stay in the loop with your child’s progress, but don’t micromanage. Celebrate small wins, and keep the focus on learning rather than just results. Positive reinforcement builds confidence over time.

Here’s another testimonial from a happy parent:

"My daughter started at JAC Eastwood in Year 5. Now she is studying at her target selective school in Year 8. She really enjoyed her time at James An. Thanks to her tutors, Michelle and Jason, for making learning attractive and giving her more opportunities."

•  Yoji: Google review

Ready to Help Your Child Excel?

At James An College Eastwood, we take the guesswork out of selective school preparation. With tailored programs and a proven track record, we guide your child to success while giving you peace of mind.

 "A very nice place for learning. Teachers are incredibly patient and care for all students; parents always receive prompt feedback from the center. Thumbs up for the staff in JAC Eastwood!" 

• Jerry Wang - Google review

Book a free assessment today and discover how we can tailor a plan that works for your child. Learn more about our personalised tutoring services here.