SEAG Transfer Test revision is entering its final and most important stage as the first exam approaches in just under two weeks. Across Northern Ireland, pupils and parents are working hard to stay focused and calm in the lead-up to the big day. After months of preparation, the goal now is not to learn new material but to refine, review, and maintain confidence. As a tutor who has guided many children through this process, I know how vital these final weeks can be in helping pupils perform at their best.
This guide will help you support your child through the final weeks of SEAG Transfer Test revision, combining effective strategies with a calm approach that promotes both well-being and success.
Maintain Balance Through Routin
At this stage, the goal is not to introduce new material, but to consolidate learning and maintain structure. Encourage your child to balance revision with rest and relaxation. Activities such as sports, reading for pleasure, or creative hobbies are not distractions—they are essential recovery time.
A short walk, a kickabout in the garden, or drawing for half an hour gives children space to process what they’ve learned. When children feel happy and relaxed, they remember information better and approach their studies with a clearer mind. Creating a simple, realistic schedule with regular breaks can make revision feel achievable rather than overwhelming.
Positivity Builds Confidence
Children perform best when they believe they can succeed. Confidence comes from consistent encouragement and celebrating progress. As a parent, it helps to focus on what your child can do rather than what they can’t. Recognise small victories—improved times on a practice test, fewer mistakes in fractions, or more detailed comprehension answers.
Remind them that mistakes are part of learning. Rather than saying “you must get this right,” try “look how much better you’ve become at this.” When children see their growth, they approach the exam with calm confidence rather than fear of failure.
The Role of Sleep and Nutrition
Good sleep and healthy eating habits have a direct effect on focus, stamina, and performance. In the final weeks, a consistent bedtime routine is one of the best supports you can provide. Aim for a full night’s rest, as tiredness can lead to simple mistakes and lower concentration.
A balanced diet with plenty of fruit, vegetables, and whole grains helps maintain energy levels. Limit sugary snacks that can cause dips in focus. Encourage your child to drink water regularly throughout the day to stay hydrated. These small adjustments can make a noticeable difference in their ability to stay calm and think clearly during revision and on exam day.
Practising Under Real Exam Conditions
SEAG Transfer Test revision should include timed practice papers, but they need to be used wisely. One paper each week is plenty at this stage. Sitting practice tests under realistic conditions—quiet environment, limited distractions, and timed—is invaluable.
The best time to do this is on a Saturday morning to mimic the actual test day. This helps children adjust to the timing and pressure so that the real exam feels familiar rather than intimidating. After each test, review the answers together. Instead of just checking which ones were wrong, discuss why they were wrong. Did they misread the question? Was it a careless mistake? Did they rush? Understanding the reason helps prevent repeat errors.
Building Stamina and Focus
The SEAG Transfer Test lasts over an hour, which can feel long for many pupils. Mental stamina can be developed gradually. Encourage your child to complete small timed tasks and gradually extend the duration. Reading longer passages, completing short problem sets, or solving puzzles without breaks all help build endurance.
Simple breathing exercises also help improve focus. Before beginning a practice paper, try a calm breathing pattern: breathe in for four seconds, hold for two, and exhale for six. This quick routine reduces anxiety and helps children start with a steady mindset
The Night Before the Exam
Preparation before exam day is just as important as revision. Help your child pack and lay out everything they need the evening before—highlighter, uniform, pupil ID card, etc. Plan a healthy breakfast, and aim for an early night.
A calm morning routine sets the tone for the day. Avoid cramming; instead, offer quiet encouragement and reassurance. Remind your child that they are ready and capable. Confidence, not panic, is what will see them through.
Keeping Perspective
The SEAG Transfer Test is important, but it is only one step in a much longer journey. What matters most is that your child does their best and feels proud of their effort. The skills they have built—resilience, critical thinking, and focus—will serve them well beyond this test.
As both a teacher and a parent, I understand how much this time means to families. The nerves are real, but so is the potential. In these final weeks, keep revision steady, celebrate effort, and encourage calm confidence. With balance, rest, and positivity, your child will walk into the SEAG Transfer Test ready to show what they can do.