Upcoming changes to entrance exams
Creativity has always had its place in learning, but it’s becoming a core skill being assessed in students. It’s now a formal part of some Year 7 Entrance Exams and it’s catching parents off guard. Schools are introducing tasks that test imaginative thinking, clear communication and original problem-solving. These new tasks aren’t just about writing stories. They ask children to think on their feet, use language purposefully and respond to unusual prompts in thoughtful, original ways.
But don’t panic - this is a real opportunity for children to shine - especially those who enjoy thinking differently. Success in these tasks comes down to clear ideas, confident expression and the ability to show your thinking on the page.
They’ll need to:
Express ideas clearly and vividly
Adapt language to suit purpose and audience
Generate fresh, imaginative responses
Solve unusual problems in unique ways
Plan, organise and communicate ideas in a short window of time
Supporting Your Child’s Creative Thinking
1. Creativity doesn’t need to be forced, performed or added in as an extra. It’s already present in the way children think, question, solve problems and express themselves. The key is recognising those moments and giving children the tools to build on them with confidence.
2. Rather than asking children to be ‘creative’ on command, find opportunities for originality within the tasks they’re already doing. Whether they’re writing, discussing, exploring ideas or responding to new challenges, creative thinking can be encouraged through structure, support and space to experiment.
3. When children are shown how to adapt their thinking, shape their ideas clearly and find their own voice, creativity becomes a natural part of the process rather than an added pressure. With the right balance of guidance and freedom, children can develop flexible thinking, thoughtful expression and the confidence to respond to unfamiliar tasks in original ways.
Final Thought:
Remember, creativity isn’t about performance; it’s about growth, curiosity and learning to think in bold, imaginative and purposeful ways. If you’d like to discuss how we can advise you or support your child, please email us at info@linkythinks.com.