CAMBRIDGE EXAMS FOR CHILDREN

This is a blog where you can find detailed information about the YLE (Young Learners English Tests).
Here, you will find out about what is in the exams and what a student needs to do to prepare for them. There is also some advice on how to study for the exam and tips for exam day.

There are five different exams that have been designed for children. They are the so-called: Pre A1 Starters, A1 Movers, A2 Flyers, KET for Schools (Key English Test) and PET for Schools (Preliminary English Test).

In the following video you will find more detailed information about these English language examinations specially designed for children in primary and lower-secondary school:

All of these exams follow the levels of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages:

The Council of Europe’s Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is the system that defines and explains the different levels of oral and written expression and comprehension for any language. These descriptors can be used to set clear targets for achievements within language learning, to help define language proficiency levels and to interpret language qualifications. This standard is used mainly in Europe, though there are other countries that also take it as a reference.

Cambridge Assessment English was involved in the early development of this standard and all of its examinations are aligned with the levels described by the CEFR. The levels certified in Cambridge English Qualifications for children and adults, mapped to the [CEFR levels], can be found in the following table:

Now, let us talk about every test

Pre A1 Starters is the first of the three Cambridge English Qualifications designed for young learners. This test introduces children to everyday written and spoken English and is a perfect way for them to improve their English.

A1 Movers is the second of the three Cambridge English Qualifications and is very similar to the previous one. The A1 Movers test is an excellent way for children to gain confidence and improve their English skills.

A2 Flyers is the third of the three Cambridge English Qualifications. This test is written around familiar topics and focus on the skills needed to communicate effectively in English through listening, speaking, reading and writing.

A2 Key for Schools shows how a student can use English to communicate in simple situations. It is a logical next step after the Cambridge English Qualifications designed for young learners and a good place for older children to start learning English too. The exam gives students the confidence to go on to study for higher-level English exams, such as B1 Preliminary for Schools.

B1 Preliminary for Schools shows that a student has mastered the basics of English and has practical language skills for everyday use. This exam is the logical step in a student’s language learning journey between A2 Key for Schools and B2 First for Schools.

B1 Preliminary for Schools is targeted at the same CEFR level as B1 Preliminary but with content aimed at school-age learners rather than adults.