Preparing for KS1 and KS2 SATs can feel overwhelming for both children and parents. With the right approach, however, SATs preparation does not have to be stressful. A structured revision plan, regular practice, and the right support can make a significant difference in your child’s confidence and performance.
In this guide, we share practical and effective SATs preparation tips for 2026, designed to help both KS1 and KS2 pupils revise efficiently, reduce exam stress, and perform at their best in the SATs exams.
What are the KS1 and KS2 SATs in the UK?
SATs are national assessments that pupils take twice during primary school: first at the end of Key Stage 1 (KS1) in Year 2, and then again at the end of Key Stage 2 (KS2) in Year 6. Officially, these are called End of Key Stage Tests and Assessments, but they are more commonly known as SATs.
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How to Prepare Your Child for SATs Effectively
Making sure your child is ready for SATs does not have to be difficult. By focusing on the essentials such as regular revision, practising past papers, and building strong Maths and English skills, you can help your child feel more confident and fully prepared for the exams. Parents can read the guide on primary KS1 and KS2 SATs.
Below are some simple and effective SATs revision tips to help your child prepare successfully.
How to prepare for SATs effectively:
- Create a study timetable.
- Revise Maths and English regularly.
- Practise past SATs papers.
- Focus on weak topics.
- Keep revision sessions short and regular.
- Encourage and motivate your child.
- Make revision part of the daily routine
Top 7 SATs Exams Preparation Tips for 2026
Students sit their SATs exams in Years 2 and 6. They are tested on important subjects, including Reading, Spelling, Punctuation, Grammar, Maths, and Reasoning. Therefore, they need additional help and expert techniques to get optimal preparation.
Students take SATs in Year 2 (KS1) and Year 6 (KS2). These exams assess key subjects such as Reading, Spelling, Punctuation and Grammar (SPaG), Maths, and Reasoning. To help children perform well, it is important to use the right preparation techniques, maintain a consistent routine, and provide the right support at home.
Below are some of the most effective SATs preparation tips for 2026.
1. Stay Encouraging and Consistent
Children respond strongly to the attitude of their parents and teachers. A calm, positive, and consistent approach helps children feel more confident and less stressed about SATs. Try to maintain a regular study routine, offer encouragement, and celebrate small progress. Confidence plays a huge role in SATs success.
2. Create a Clear Study Plan
Without a proper plan, SATs revision can quickly become unorganised and stressful. Creating a clear and realistic study plan helps children cover all topics before the exams.
KS2 SATs (Year 6) are more formal and require a more detailed revision plan compared to KS1 SATs (Year 2). A good study plan should include:
- Weekly revision topics
- Practice papers
- Reading time
- Maths practice
- Grammar and spelling practice
You can use a wall planner so children can tick off completed tasks, which helps them stay motivated. Some children prefer using a spreadsheet or revision tracker to monitor their progress and identify areas that need more practice.
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3- Keep Patience and Stay Calm
Preparing for SATs can be stressful for both children and parents, especially when juggling busy schedules. Maintaining patience and keeping your focus on your child’s success is key. A calm, supportive environment allows your child to explore their skills confidently and retain lessons more effectively.
Tip from our experts: Before revision sessions, take a few minutes to practice deep breathing or mindfulness to stay composed. This creates a positive atmosphere for learning and reduces exam-related stress.
Watch the video for 2026 SATs online tuition offers.
4. Develop a Strong Reading Habit
Reading is a vital part of SATs preparation, particularly at the KS2 level. Children need to be confident in understanding and analysing texts, including more challenging passages. Encouraging regular reading, both independently and together, improves comprehension, vocabulary, and listening skills—key abilities for SATs success.
Practical Tip: If your child isn’t naturally drawn to reading, try offering small rewards or making storytime interactive. Even reading a short story together daily can make a big difference in confidence and skill development.
5. Plan a Dynamic Revision Strategy
Regular revision helps keep learned material fresh and improves memory retention. A well-structured SATs revision plan should include:
- Detailed revision aids and notes
- Online SATs practice tests
- Short quizzes and interactive exercises
In our live SATs tuition sessions, tutors use fun activities like quizzes, riddles, and mini challenges to make revision engaging and effective. Parents can also use weekly revision schedules to track progress and read our guide on how to help a child pass their SATs exams.
6- Use SATs Practice Papers
Regular practice is one of the most effective ways for children to prepare for SATs. Solving past SATs papers familiarises pupils with the exam format, types of questions, and time management skills. It also builds confidence and reduces exam-day anxiety.
Pro Tip: Integrate practice papers into your child’s revision schedule. Start with timed sessions and gradually increase difficulty to simulate real SATs conditions. Combining practice papers with a structured revision plan ensures your child covers all topics efficiently.
7- Reach Out for Expert SATs Guidance
Even the most supportive parents can benefit from expert guidance. Experienced SATs tutors provide insights, targeted strategies, and personalised support that help children maximise their potential.
At Adnan Khan Tutoring, we offer tailored 2026 SATs online tuition for KS1 and KS2 students. Our sessions cover:
- Maths practice and problem-solving
- Reading comprehension and critical analysis
- Spelling, Punctuation, and Grammar (SPaG)
- Effective exam strategies and revision techniques
Parents can also join guidance sessions to better support their child at home, ensuring a confident and well-prepared approach to SATs.
When Are KS2 SATs 2026?
The KS2 SATs week 2026 schedule is out now!
| DATE | TEST | TIME |
| Monday, 11th May 2026 | Grammar & Punctuation Test | 45 minutes |
| Monday, 11th May 2026 | Spelling Test | 20 minutes |
| Tuesday, 12th May 2026 | English Reading Paper | 60 minutes |
| Wednesday, 13th May 2026 | Maths Paper 1 (Arithmetic) | 30 minutes |
| Wednesday, 13th May 2026 | Maths Paper 2 (Reasoning) | 40 minutes |
| Thursday, 14th May 2026 | Maths Paper 3 (Reasoning) | 40 minutes |
Conclusion
Start preparing your child for SATs exams with these practical tips. For optimal preparation, access the best SATs preparation resources for both KS1 and KS2 with experienced SATs online tutors at Adnan Khan Tutoring. Enrol now!