The Ultimate Guide for Selective Test

• Reading – Measures comprehension, analytical thinking, and inference based on a variety of written texts.
• Mathematical Reasoning – Assesses problem-solving abilities using numbers, patterns, and real-world math scenarios.
• Thinking Skills – Focuses on logical reasoning, pattern recognition, and critical thinking.
• Writing – Requires students to compose an original written response, testing their ability to express ideas clearly and coherently.

• Advanced Curriculum: Exposure to higher-level concepts in core subjects.
• Peer-to-Peer Learning: Collaborating with like-minded students who share a passion for learning. Pathways to
• Excellence: Higher success rates in university placements and scholarships.

Braintree Coaching specializes in preparing students for the selective test, offering personalized study plans, mock tests, and expert coaching that replicates the actual test environment.

Selective high schools offer a challenging academic environment designed for high-achieving students. These schools are known for their enriched curriculum, focusing on advanced subjects, problem-solving skills, and critical thinking, ensuring students are always engaged and motivated to perform at their best.

• Tailored Learning Opportunities: Advanced-level classes in English, Mathematics, and Science.
• Focus on STEM and Innovation: Programs encouraging creativity and technological skills.
• Exposure to Advanced Projects: Research opportunities, coding programs, and robotics.

Students develop skills essential for success in higher education and future careers, such as critical thinking, creativity, and independent learning.

One of the key advantages of selective high schools is the opportunity for students to be part of a community of like-minded peers. This creates an environment that fosters collaboration, innovation, and academic growth.

• Learning culture: Being around other motivated students encourages higher performance.
• Healthy competition: Boosts academic performance while teaching resilience and adaptability .
• Networking and friendships: Lifelong connections with driven and ambitious peers.

This unique environment often brings out the best in students, encouraging them to aim higher and broaden their horizons.

• Year Level: Your child must be in Year 5 when applying for Year 7 placement.
• Residency: You must live in NSW or plan to move there before school starts.
• Participation: Your child must sit for the Selective High School Placement Test.

Confirming eligibility early will save you time and stress later in the process.

• Register Online:
  • Visit the NSW Department of Education website and complete the online application.
  • Ensure all personal information is correct.
  
  
• Submit Supporting Documents:
  • Proof of residency
  • Recent school reports
  • Other relevant documents if required


• Receive Confirmation:
  • After submission, you’ll receive a confirmation email. Keep the reference number handy.


• Download the Test Admission Ticket:
  • This will be available closer to the test date. Ensure you print it out and bring it on test day.

• Test Admission Ticket: Issued a few weeks before the test. Keep it safe and review test details carefully.
• Preparation: This is a great time to help your child prepare for the test. Regular practice and familiarization with the test format will build confidence.
• Mock Tests: These are invaluable for understanding test pressure and improving time management.

The test is divided into multiple sections, each focusing on different skills. It’s not a test of curriculum knowledge but rather a measure of a student’s ability to think critically and solve problems.

• Reading Comprehension: Focuses on understanding and interpreting texts from various genres.
• Mathematical Reasoning: Evaluates problem-solving and numerical reasoning abilities.
• Thinking Skills: Tests logical reasoning, pattern recognition, and critical thinking.
• Writing Task: A short writing task to assess creativity, coherence, and written expression.

• Reading Comprehension ensures students can interpret and analyze complex texts, which is essential for academic success.
• Mathematical Reasoning challenges students to think logically and apply mathematical concepts in unfamiliar situations.
• Thinking Skills emphasizes problem-solving and lateral thinking, reflecting real-life decision-making processes.
• Writing Task showcases a student’s ability to communicate effectively and present cohesive arguments.

• Computer-Based Format: All answers are submitted digitally, so basic computer skills are essential.
• Strict Time Limits: Time is allocated per section, and students must manage it wisely.
• No Negative Marking: It’s always better to make an educated guess than leave an answer blank.

Make sure your child is familiar with the digital interface to avoid surprises during the test.

Knowing the structure and types of questions in the test is the first step toward effective preparation. Each section has its own set of challenges, and understanding them can help in better time management and confidence building.

• Reading Comprehension: Practice comprehension skills by reading a variety of texts—fiction, non-fiction, and persuasive pieces.
• Mathematical Reasoning: Focus on problem-solving and application-based questions rather than rote memorization of formulas.
• Thinking Skills: Solve puzzles and practice logical reasoning exercises to develop lateral thinking.
• Writing Task: Encourage creative and persuasive writing practice on diverse topics with time constraints.

• 6–12 Months Before the Test: Build foundational skills in math, reading, and critical thinking. Start practicing question types gradually.
• 3–6 Months Before the Test: Increase practice frequency. Begin mock tests and focus on improving speed and accuracy.
• 1–3 Months: Take full-length mock tests under timed conditions to simulate real test day scenarios. Identify weak areas and focus on quick improvements.

• Time Management is Critical: – Each section is strictly timed. Teach your child to move on if they’re stuck and return later if time permits.
• Read Instructions Carefully: Misunderstanding the question can cost marks. Encourage your child to read instructions twice before answering.
• No Penalty for Wrong Answers: Remind your child to attempt every question—there’s no deduction for incorrect answers.
• Stay Focused & Positive: – If they start feeling anxious, a few deep breaths can help them regain focus.

• Avoid Overanalyzing: Don’t press your child for details about how they performed. Focus on celebrating their effort and hard work.
• Discuss the Experience: Ask open-ended questions like, “How did you feel about the test?”
• Stay Informed: Keep an eye on key dates for the Selective Test Results and Placement Offers.

• Stay Calm & Encouraging: Avoid adding pressure, and remind your child that their best effort is enough.
• Breathing Techniques: Slow, deep breathing can reduce anxiety.
• Positive Affirmations: Encourage your child to say, “I’m prepared, and I’ve got this!”

• Test Components: The test includes Reading, Mathematical Reasoning, Thinking Skills, and Writing sections.
• Weightage: Different sections contribute proportionally to the total score. The results are scaled to ensure consistency across test versions.
• Final Score: The score is scaled out of 300 and is used to rank applicants for selective school offers.

Knowing what qualifies as a competitive score can help you understand your child’s chances. While the cutoff scores vary by school and year, here’s a rough estimate:

• Highly Competitive Schools: Require scores above 250+
• Moderately Competitive Schools: Range between 220–249
• Less Competitive Schools: Usually accept scores between 200–219

Your child’s test performance and school preferences play a critical role in determining the outcome.