The best things you can do to help your child succeed at school

10 Proven Ways to Help Your Child Succeed at School

Every parent wants their child to thrive at school – but success isn’t just about grades. It’s about confidence, curiosity, and consistency. Whether your child is in Year 1 or preparing for secondary school, there are practical things you can do at home that can make all the difference. Here are 10 parent-approved strategies to help your child succeed at school – and how Bright Light Education can support that journey.

1. Show Interest in Their Learning

Children are more likely to stay motivated when they know you care. Ask questions about their day, look at homework together, and celebrate effort, not just results. Showing interest helps learning feel valued.

2. Encourage a Love of Reading

Reading is the foundation of academic success. Whether it’s bedtime stories or a weekend reading challenge, building reading habits improves vocabulary, imagination, and comprehension.

Explore our Book Clubs for Children – a fun and interactive way to boost reading skills and confidence.

3. Support Homework Without Taking Over

Creating a quiet space, offering structure, and setting routines are powerful ways to help children stay on track. But resist the urge to correct every mistake – independence is a skill too.

4. Provide Academic Enrichment Opportunities

Sometimes school alone isn’t enough. Enrichment activities outside of school can unlock new passions and give children a real academic edge.

Our English Courses are led by qualified teachers and designed to inspire, challenge, and stretch young learners.

5. Prepare for Milestones Like the 11+

Entrance exams like the 11+ can be a big leap. With the right guidance, children can approach them with confidence and composure.

Our 11+ Interview Preparation programme provides structured, supportive coaching including mock interviews and feedback.

6. Build Healthy Study Habits at Home

Teaching time management, goal setting, and revision strategies early can help children become independent learners. These are skills that last long beyond school.

Our Home-Education Classes support parents and children with structured, engaging learning from home.

7. Make the Most of School Holidays

School holidays don’t have to mean learning stops. A little structure during breaks can prevent learning loss – and even give your child a head start for the next term.

Check out our Holiday English Courses for fun, impactful learning over the school holidays.

8. Encourage Positive Mindsets

Growth mindset – the belief that ability improves with effort – has been linked to greater academic performance. Praise persistence, not perfection.

9. Don’t Underestimate Routine

Consistent sleep, screen time limits, and balanced meals all play a quiet but crucial role in how children learn. Brain fuel matters!

10. Ask for Help When Needed

Some children benefit most from 1:1 attention. Whether it’s catching up or stretching ahead, personalised tutoring can make a huge difference.

Bright Light Education’s 1:1 Tutoring connects children with experienced, qualified teachers for focused learning support.

At a Glance: Parental Support and Its Impact

Support Strategy Positive Outcome
Daily reading practice Improved vocabulary and comprehension
Enrichment courses Higher academic performance and curiosity
Home routines and structure Better focus and time management
1:1 tutoring Targeted support and faster progress
Book clubs and group learning Greater confidence, social learning and love of reading

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the most important thing I can do to help my child at school?
Parental involvement is key. Encouraging reading, helping with homework, and showing interest in learning can significantly improve academic success.
How do book clubs help children academically?
Book clubs build vocabulary, improve comprehension, and boost communication skills. They also make reading fun, which is vital for long-term academic growth. Discover our Book Clubs.
What age should I consider tutoring for my child?
Tutoring can benefit children at any age — whether it’s to catch up, boost confidence, or prepare for exams. Our qualified 1:1 tutors tailor lessons to each child’s needs.
Are holiday courses worth it?
Yes! They help keep children engaged during breaks, reduce learning loss, and can introduce new skills. Check out our Holiday English Courses.
How can I prepare my child for the 11+ interview?
Practice makes perfect. Our 11+ Interview Preparation offers mock interviews and expert coaching to help children feel calm and confident.

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Explore Bright Light Education’s Programmes

Every child learns differently, but with the right support, every child can succeed. Bright Light Education is here to help make that happen.

Are you looking for a tutor?

Bright Light Education offers a range of tutors who tutor both online and face-to-face. All tutors are qualified teachers. 

Are you looking for a small group course?

Bright Light Education offers creative writing, comprehension and 11+ interviews, as well as online book clubs.

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