The Best Board Games to Support Maths Learning

The Key Stage 2 (KS2) SATs are an important milestone for Year 6 pupils in England. These tests, taken in May, assess children’s skills in English (reading, grammar, punctuation, and spelling) and mathematics . While the tests are important, they should not be a source of stress. With the right preparation, students can approach their SATs with confidence. Here’s a helpful guide for both students and parents. 1. Understanding the KS2 SATs The KS2 SATs are divided into the following papers: English Reading – Comprehension questions based on different texts. English Grammar, Punctuation, and Spelling (GPS) – A test covering grammar and punctuation, plus a spelling section. Mathematics – Two arithmetic and two reasoning papers. Although schools prepare students thoroughly, extra support at home can make a big difference. 2. Creating a Study Plan A structured approach is key. Parents and students should work together to create a revision timetable , ensuring each subject gets attention without overwhelming the child. Break study sessions into short, focused periods (e.g., 20, 30 or 40 minutes max). Prioritise weaker areas but maintain a balanced approach . Include regular breaks and fun activities to keep motivation high. 3. Using Past Papers and Practice Questions Practising with past SATs papers helps students become familiar with the format and question styles - these can be downloaded free online here . Set realistic time limits to improve time management. Review mistakes to understand concepts better. Use online resources and workbooks for additional practice. 4. Strengthening English Skills For the reading test : Encourage daily reading of different texts (fiction, non-fiction, poetry). Ask questions about what they read to check understanding BBC Bitesize Reading has some useful resources around reading and discussing reading. For grammar and punctuation : Use online quizzes and games, for example BBC bitesize has some great resources Revise key grammar rules (e.g., sentence structure, verb tenses). For spelling : Practise common spelling lists used in KS2 SATs. Use fun activities like spelling games and flashcards. Try this online spelling activity from Spelling Ninja . 5. Mastering Maths Practise mental arithmetic daily (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division). CGP Books have some free online 10 minute maths tests Focus on key areas like fractions, decimals, and percentages. Solve real-world maths problems (e.g., budgeting pocket money, measuring ingredients in recipes). 6. Staying Positive and Managing Stress Encourage a growth mindset : Mistakes help us learn. Ensure they get plenty of sleep and regular exercise . Use breathing exercises and relaxation techniques to ease anxiety. Celebrate progress, not just results. 7. Practical Tips for SATs Week Ensure your child gets a good night’s sleep before each test. Provide a healthy breakfast for energy and focus. Arrive at school on time and with the right equipment . Encourage a calm and positive attitude . Final Thoughts Preparing for KS2 SATs doesn’t have to be stressful. With a structured approach, regular practice, and a positive mindset , students can feel ready to tackle their exams with confidence. Remember: SATs are just one part of a child’s learning journey, and doing their best is what truly matters! Good luck from Empower Tutoring to all the Year 6 students taking their SATs this year!

As parents, we all want the best for our children and their education. However, it can sometimes be challenging to determine if your child is struggling academically and might benefit from additional support. Whether they're falling behind in class, feeling overwhelmed, or losing confidence, early intervention can make a significant difference. Here are some key signs to watch out for that might indicate your child needs extra academic support. Declining Grades One of the most obvious indicators that your child may need additional support is a noticeable decline in their grades. If their performance has dropped over several terms or they struggle with specific subjects consistently, it may be time to consider additional tutoring to help bridge any learning gaps. Lack of Enthusiasm for Learning If your child once enjoyed school but now dreads it, it could be a sign that they are finding certain aspects challenging. A loss of enthusiasm for learning, especially in previously enjoyed subjects, might indicate that they need extra support to regain their confidence and interest. Struggling with Homework If completing homework is becoming a daily battle, with your child spending excessive amounts of time on tasks or avoiding them altogether, it could signal that they are having difficulties understanding the material. This is a clear sign they might benefit from extra guidance outside of school hours. Low Self-Esteem and Confidence A noticeable dip in self-confidence or frequent expressions of frustration about their abilities can indicate academic struggles. If your child frequently says things like "I'm not good at this" or "I can't do it," it may be time to provide additional support to help them rebuild their self-esteem. Teacher Feedback Teachers spend a significant amount of time with your child and can provide valuable insights into their academic progress. If their teacher has expressed concerns about their performance, concentration, or participation in class, it might be worth considering extra academic support to address these issues. Difficulty Keeping Up with Peers If your child finds it challenging to keep up with their classmates, it can lead to feelings of frustration and isolation. Falling behind can often go unnoticed until a child expresses feelings of being "left out" or struggles to complete tasks that others find easy. Behavioural Changes Academic struggles can sometimes manifest in behavioural changes such as increased irritability, avoidance of school-related discussions, or even acting out in class. If you notice changes in your child’s behaviour that seem linked to schoolwork, it may be a sign they need additional support. Struggles with Basic Skills Difficulties with core skills such as reading, writing, or numeracy, even after repeated efforts, can indicate a need for targeted support. These foundational skills are crucial for academic success, and additional tutoring can provide focused intervention. Lack of Organisation and Time Management If your child regularly forgets assignments, struggles to manage their time, or finds it hard to stay organised, they may be overwhelmed by their workload. Tutoring can help them develop better study habits and organisational skills. Physical Signs of Stress Headaches, stomach aches, and trouble sleeping can sometimes be linked to academic stress. If your child frequently complains of these symptoms around school-related tasks, it might be time to explore additional academic support. What to Do Next If you've noticed any of these signs in your child, it's important to address them early. Start by having an open conversation with your child about their challenges and concerns. Speak with their teachers to gain a better understanding of their academic progress and consider seeking professional tutoring support tailored to their needs. At Empower Tutoring, we provide personalised tutoring programmes designed to help children overcome their challenges and thrive academically. Get in touch with us today if you would like to find out how we can support your child’s learning journey.  Supporting your child’s education is one of the best investments you can make in their future.

As the New Year begins, many students and parents set ambitious academic goals to ensure a successful school year. While striving for the very best academic progress and achievement is important, it’s equally vital to maintain a healthy balance between studying and well-being. Neglecting self-care can lead to burnout, stress, and a decline in performance. Here we share some practical strategies to help students thrive academically while also prioritising their mental and physical health in the year ahead. 1. Set Realistic Goals Begin the year by setting achievable academic goals. Break larger objectives, such as improving grades or acing an assessment or exam, into smaller, manageable tasks. This approach reduces overwhelm and creates a clear path to success. Celebrate small wins along the way to stay motivated and build confidence. 2. Create a Balanced Schedule A well-structured schedule is key to balancing academics and well-being. Allocate specific times for studying, extracurricular activities, and relaxation. Make sure your timetable includes breaks between study sessions to recharge your mind. Using tools like planners or time-management apps can help keep you organized. 3. Prioritize Sleep Quality sleep is essential for optimal learning and mental health. Studies show that students who get enough sleep perform better academically and are more emotionally resilient. Aim for 8-10 hours of sleep each night and establish a consistent bedtime routine to support a healthy sleep cycle. 4. Stay Physically Active Physical activity is not just good for the body but also for the mind. Regular exercise can reduce stress, improve concentration, and boost energy levels. Even a 20-minute walk, yoga session, or team sport can make a significant difference. Encourage movement during study breaks to stay refreshed. 5. Practice Mindfulness and Stress Management Mindfulness techniques, such as meditation, deep breathing, or journaling, can help students manage stress and maintain focus. Encourage setting aside a few minutes each day for mindfulness practices to cultivate a sense of calm and clarity. Additionally, learning how to manage time effectively can alleviate the pressure of tight deadlines. 6. Maintain a Healthy Diet What you eat has a direct impact on your cognitive function and energy levels. Incorporate a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein. Avoid excessive caffeine and sugary snacks, which can lead to energy crashes. Staying hydrated is equally important. 7. Seek Support When Needed It’s important to know when to ask for help. Whether it’s academic challenges or personal issues, reaching out to teachers, tutors, family members, or friends can provide valuable support. Professional resources, such as school counsellors or therapists, are also available for more serious concerns. 8. Make Time for Hobbies and Interests Engaging in hobbies or creative activities is a great way to relax and recharge. Whether it’s painting, playing an instrument, or reading for pleasure, these activities provide a much-needed break from academic demands and contribute to overall happiness. 9. Reflect and Adjust Regularly Life is dynamic, and so are your priorities. Take time to reflect on what’s working and what isn’t. Adjust your routine and goals as needed to maintain balance. Flexibility is key to navigating the challenges of school life while staying healthy and focused. Final Thoughts Balancing academic learning and well-being is not a one-time resolution but an ongoing process. By adopting these strategies, students can build a sustainable routine that supports both their educational aspirations and overall happiness. Remember, success isn’t just about grades—it’s also about feeling fulfilled, healthy, and ready to tackle whatever challenges come your way. Here’s to a balanced, productive, and joyful New Year!

Christmas is a wonderful time to bring the family together, and there’s no better way to create laughter and memories than with a few festive games. If you’re looking for simple, low-cost activities that everyone can enjoy, we’ve got you covered. These games don’t require fancy equipment—just a little creativity, a sprinkle of Christmas spirit, and plenty of enthusiasm. 1. Christmas Charades A classic game that never fails to bring laughter! With no props needed, it’s all about using your acting skills to mime festive phrases. How to Play: Write down Christmas-themed ideas on slips of paper (like “building a snowman” or “decorating a Christmas tree”) and take turns acting them out while the rest of the family guesses. Why It’s Great: It’s completely free and fun for all ages. Plus, it encourages everyone to get involved, even the shyest family members. 2. 20 Questions: Christmas Edition A simple guessing game that only requires quick thinking. How to Play: One player thinks of a Christmas-related item, like “reindeer” or “mince pie,” and others take turns asking yes/no questions to figure it out. They have 20 questions to guess correctly! Why It’s Great: This game sparks curiosity and problem-solving skills while being easy to play anywhere. 3. Who Am I? (Christmas Style) This game guarantees giggles and works perfectly around the dinner table. How to Play: Write the names of Christmas characters (e.g., Santa Claus, The Grinch, or Frosty the Snowman) on sticky notes or scraps of paper. Each person sticks one to their forehead without looking, and they must ask yes/no questions to figure out who they are. Why It’s Great: It’s silly, requires no setup, and encourages creativity and interaction. 4. Christmas Scavenger Hunt Turn your home into a festive treasure hunt! How to Play: Hide small Christmas-related items (like baubles, candy canes, or tinsel) around the house. Create a list of items for everyone to find. You can even add clues or riddles for extra fun. Why It’s Great: It’s active, adaptable for all ages, and gets the kids moving before they settle in for a Christmas feast. 5. The Drawing Game Perfect for families who love to laugh at their artistic (or not-so-artistic!) skills. How to Play: Give each player a piece of paper and a pencil. Call out a festive item (like “Christmas tree” or “snowman”) for everyone to draw—without looking at their paper! Reveal the masterpieces at the end for a good laugh. Why It’s Great: This game is free, quick to set up, and always delivers funny results. 6. Pass the Parcel (Budget-Friendly Version) A childhood favourite with a festive twist! How to Play: Wrap a small item in layers of newspaper or wrapping paper. For each layer, add a challenge or forfeit (e.g., “sing a carol” or “name three Christmas films”). Pass the parcel around to music, and when it stops, the person holding it unwraps a layer. Why It’s Great: It’s nostalgic, fun, and can be done on a shoestring budget using items you already have at home. 7. The Name Game (Festive Twist) A quick-thinking game that’s perfect for all ages. How to Play: Choose a category (e.g., Christmas songs, films, or characters). Each player takes turns naming something in that category without repeating. If someone hesitates too long, they’re out! Why It’s Great: It’s simple, free, and encourages everyone to stay sharp. 8. Christmas Simon Says A festive spin on the classic Simon Says. How to Play: The leader gives instructions, such as “Simon says, pretend to wrap a gift” or “Simon says, act like a reindeer.” If the leader doesn’t say “Simon says” before the instruction, players who follow it are out. Why It’s Great: This game is active, perfect for younger children, and requires no materials. 9. Snowball Toss Bring the winter fun indoors with this energetic game. How to Play: Crumple up pieces of white paper to create “snowballs.” Set up a bucket or bowl as a target, and take turns throwing snowballs into the container from a distance. Why It’s Great: It’s simple, free, and great for burning off extra energy after all those mince pies. 10. Christmas Story Round A creative storytelling game that sparks the imagination. How to Play: Start a festive story with one sentence, like “It was Christmas Eve, and Santa’s sleigh broke down.” Each person adds one sentence to continue the story. Keep going until you’ve crafted a wild and funny tale! Why It’s Great: It’s free, encourages teamwork, and is perfect for showcasing your family’s sense of humour. The best Christmas games are the ones that bring people together. With these simple and free ideas, you can fill your home with joy and laughter without spending a penny. So, gather around, let the festive fun begin, and make this Christmas one to remember! What’s your favourite family game to play at Christmas? Share your ideas in the comments or on social media—we’d love to hear them! Wishing you all a very Merry Holiday Season and a Happy New Year!

A quick guide to Emotional Intelligence and why it is important for children

Advantages of Learning a Second Language for Children

As we begin the new academic year, it is a good time to think about the area your child will use at home when they need to study and/or complete their homework tasks. Creating the perfect study environment at home involves several key factors that can support focus, comfort, and productivity. Here are some quick ideas and tips to help you set up an ideal study space for your child: Choose the Right Location Select a quiet area away from high-traffic zones and distractions like TV and kitchen noise. Ensure your study space has plenty of natural light or invest in good quality, adjustable lighting to reduce eye strain. Furnish for Comfort and Functionality Use a comfortable chair and a desk at the right height to maintain good posture. Consider an adjustable chair and desk if possible. Ensure your desk has enough space for your computer, books, and other study materials without feeling cramped. Minimize Distractions Keep your phone and other non-essential devices out of reach or turned off to avoid distractions. Keep your study area tidy and organized. Remove unnecessary items to create a clean and focused environment. Organize Study Materials Use shelves, drawers, or organizers to keep books, papers, and supplies in order. Keep all necessary tools like pens, notebooks, and chargers within easy reach to avoid disruptions. Personalize Your Space Decorate with motivational quotes, a calendar, or a whiteboard to keep track of deadlines and tasks. Add a few personal touches like a plant, a comfortable blanket, or a favourite picture to make the space inviting. Control the Environment Ensure the room is at a comfortable temperature. Use fans or heaters if necessary. Use noise-cancelling headphones, white noise machines, or calming background music to block out distracting sounds. Establish a Routine Regular Schedule: Set regular study hours to build a routine and signal to others that you are in study mode. Breaks: Schedule short breaks to rest and recharge. Follow techniques like the Pomodoro Technique (25 mins of focused work followed by a 5-min break). Ensure Connectivity Reliable Internet: Make sure you have a stable internet connection for accessing online resources and communicating with classmates or teachers. Set Clear Goals Write down what you aim to achieve each day to stay focused and motivated. Use a planner or digital calendar to map out long-term assignments and study plans. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle Keep a water bottle and healthy snacks nearby to stay hydrated and maintain energy levels. Incorporate regular physical activity into your routine to boost concentration and relieve stress. By implementing these strategies, you can create a study environment at home that maximizes productivity and comfort, helping your child to stay focused for longer and achieve their best work.

As education continues to evolve, tutoring has become an integral part of many students' academic lives. With the rise of digital technology, parents and students now have the option to choose between face-to-face and online tutoring. Both methods offer unique benefits and come with their own set of challenges. In this blog, we'll explore some of the pros and cons of both face-to-face and online tutoring to help you decide which option is best suited to you and your child's needs. Face-to-Face Tutoring Pros Personal Interaction Immediate Feedback: In-person sessions allow for instant feedback and clarification of doubts. Non-Verbal Cues: Tutors can read body language and facial expressions to gauge understanding and engagement. Stronger Rapport: Face-to-face interactions often lead to a stronger personal connection between the tutor and student. Structured Environment Fewer Distractions: A dedicated tutoring space can provide a structured environment conducive to learning. Consistency: Regular in-person meetings can help establish a routine and discipline. Hands-On Learning Interactive Tools: Tutors can use physical tools, such as textbooks, whiteboards, and educational materials, to enhance learning. Kinaesthetic Learning: Students who benefit from hands-on activities and movement can have a more effective learning experience. Cons Limited Flexibility Scheduling Conflicts: Coordinating schedules can be challenging, especially for busy families and tutors. Fixed Location: Both parties need to be in the same place, which can be inconvenient. Higher Costs Travel Expenses: Costs associated with travel can add up, whether it's the tutor or student commuting. Hourly Rates: Face-to-face tutoring can be more expensive due to additional logistics. Geographical Constraints Limited Tutor Availability: Finding a qualified tutor in a specific location can be difficult, especially in rural or remote areas. Specialized Subjects: It might be challenging to find local tutors with expertise in less common subjects. Online Tutoring Pros Flexibility and Convenience Anywhere, Anytime: Sessions can be conducted from any location with internet access, offering greater flexibility. Convenient Scheduling: Easier to find mutually convenient times without the need for travel. Access to a Wider Pool of Tutors Specialized Expertise: Students can find tutors with specific expertise, regardless of geographical location. Diverse Options: Greater choice in terms of tutors' teaching styles, backgrounds, and specialties. Cost-Effective No Travel Costs: Eliminates the need for travel, saving time and money. Competitive Rates: Online tutoring can sometimes be more affordable due to reduced overheads. Technological Tools Interactive Platforms: Utilisation of digital tools like interactive whiteboards, screen sharing, and multimedia resources can enhance the learning experience. Recorded Sessions: Ability to record sessions for later review and reinforcement. Cons Technical Issues Connectivity Problems: Poor internet connection can disrupt sessions. Technical Difficulties: Challenges with software, hardware, or digital platforms can cause frustration. Lack of Personal Interaction Limited Non-Verbal Cues: Difficult to read body language and facial expressions, which are important for communication. Reduced Engagement: Some students may find it harder to stay engaged in a virtual environment. Distractions at Home Home Environment: Distractions from family members, pets, or household noise can hinder concentration. Lack of Structure: The informal setting might not provide the same level of discipline as a traditional learning environment. Conclusion Both face-to-face and online tutoring have their distinct advantages and disadvantages. Face-to-face tutoring offers personal interaction, a structured environment, and hands-on learning, but comes with limitations in flexibility, higher costs, and some geographical constraints. Online tutoring provides greater flexibility, access to a wider pool of tutors, cost-effectiveness, and technological tools, but may suffer from technical issues, lack of personal interaction and home distractions. When deciding between the two, consider your child's specific needs, learning style, and circumstances. By weighing the pros and cons, you can make an informed decision that will best support you and your child's educational goals and preferences.

If your child is in Year 6 they will be getting excited, nervous or probably a little of both for the start of Year 7 and the move to Secondary School. They have probably had a taster day (or have one very soon) and so have a little idea of what to expect. Helping prepare your child for secondary school is a significant step that involves academic, emotional, and social readiness - read on to discover some of the best ways to help ensure a smooth transition: 1. Academic Preparation Review Basic Skills: Ensure your child is comfortable with the foundational skills in math, reading, and writing. Summer review books or educational apps can be helpful. Organizational Skills: Teach your child how to organize their study materials, manage time effectively, and create a study schedule. Homework Routine: Establish a consistent homework routine to build discipline and responsibility. 2. Emotional Readiness Discuss Changes: Talk about the differences between primary and secondary school, such as multiple teachers, larger school buildings, and increased expectations and responsibilities. Build Confidence: Encourage your child to ask questions and express their feelings about the transition. Reassure them that it's normal to feel anxious and excited. Role-Playing: Practice new scenarios like navigating the school, meeting new teachers, or dealing with peer pressure through role-playing. 3. Social Skills Development Encourage Independence: Give your child opportunities to make decisions and solve problems independently to build confidence. Friendship Skills: Discuss the importance of making new friends, being a good friend, and handling conflicts. Extracurricular Activities: Encourage participation in clubs, sports, or other activities to help them develop social skills and interests. 4. Familiarise with the New Environment (most schools offer this to new students) School Visit: Arrange a visit to the new school, if possible, to familiarise your child with the layout, classrooms, extra-curricular opportunities and facilities. Orientation Programs: Always attend any orientation sessions offered by the school. These can provide valuable information and help your child feel more comfortable. 5. Health and Well-being Healthy Habits: Promote a balanced diet, regular exercise, and sufficient sleep to ensure your child is physically prepared for the demands of secondary school. Stress Management: Teach your child techniques for managing stress, such as deep breathing, mindfulness, or journaling. 6. Practical Skills Commute Practice: If your child will be traveling independently, practice the route to and from school several times. Uniform and Supplies: Make sure your child has the required school uniform and supplies well in advance to avoid last-minute stress. Time Management: Teach your child to use a planner or calendar to keep track of assignments, tests, and activities. Their new school will be likely to make use of apps or planners to help with this so ensure they are downloaded in good time and they have sign-in details 7. Communication Open Dialogue: Regularly check in with your child about their experiences and feelings. Talk about their day, what they liked, what was new, are they prepared for tomorrow? Try to ask questions that can't be answered with just a 'yes' or 'no'. School Involvement: Stay involved with the school community by attending parent-teacher meetings and staying informed about school policies and events. 8. Set Realistic Expectations Discuss Goals: Set realistic academic and personal goals with your child. Emphasise effort and improvement over perfection. Adjust Expectations: Be prepared for an adjustment period. It's normal for children to take some time to adapt to their new environment and expectations. By focusing on these areas, you can help your child transition smoothly to secondary school, setting the stage for a successful and fulfilling educational journey. If you have any questions, please do get in touch and Good Luck to all Year 7 in September