Cambridge English Qualifications for young learners

A child's first steps in English

Cambridge English Qualifications for young learners help children around the world achieve their first steps towards learning English.

Backed by extensive research into how children develop language skills, our exams are designed to make learning English fun at the beginning of the journey, motivating children and building their confidence.

How do exams benefit and motivate young learners?

Young learner exams lay the foundation for future success in English.

• They make progressing in English fun: preparing for and taking these exams helps children develop and prove their ability through enjoyable tasks, such as colouring, finding differences and matching exercises.
• They help them develop key communication skills: preparing for young learner exams ensures children's learning is focused appropriately on the key communication skills - reading, writing, listening and speaking.
• They demonstrate progress to learners and parents: exam results include strengths and improvement areas, so everyone understands how far children have progressed and what they need to do next.
• They give clear milestones to reach step by step: exam levels are linked to the international standard of the CEFR and give precise evidence of candidates' skills, along with clear objectives.
• They celebrate what each child can do: every child receives a certificate to recognise their individual achievement.
• They grow their confidence for future exams: taking exams as young learners helps children become familiar and comfortable with the experience.

Pre A1 Starters, A1 Movers and A2 Flyers

Discover more about our exams for children aged 6-12, including details about the tests, results and how to prepare. For parents and teachers, we have lots of fun activities and free resources to help you support your children as they learn.

Official exam preparation series

Pre A1 Starters, A1 Movers and A2 Flyers exams are accompanied by official 'Fun' preparation material, to ensure young learners develop the skills they need in ways they enjoy.