Pre A1 Starters is the first of three Cambridge English Young Learners tests, designed to encourage a positive attitude toward English assessments and build foundational skills in a fun way.
This beginner level is perfect for children who are just getting started with English — maybe they’ve had around 100 hours of lessons or are building their first vocabulary. If they’re saying “hello,” naming colours, and recognising simple words, Starters is a great fit.
4 parts, 20 questions. Tasks like finding names in pictures and colouring objects based on instructions.
5 parts, 25 questions. Includes choices, one-word answers, and simple spelling.
4 activities. Children introduce themselves, follow instructions, name objects, and answer simple questions.
Starters isn’t just a test—it’s a confidence-builder. It taps into children’s natural curiosity while establishing a base for YLE exams, right up to proficiency levels.
*A gentle note to parents: While our age ranges offer a helpful starting point, they’re only guidelines. What truly matters is where your child feels confident and supported. That’s why we welcome learners of all ages based on their current English level and comfort.
At your placement assessment, we’ll take the time to understand your child’s needs and recommend the path that’ll allow them to grow best. Our priority is helping them feel empowered, encouraged, and excited to learn.
A1 Movers is the second step in your child’s Cambridge English journey. It builds on the basics learned in Pre A1 Starters, encouraging stronger language skills through fun, everyday use of English. At this stage, children grow more confident interacting with the world around them — in classrooms, playgroups, and beyond.
At this level, your child will begin to:
Movers is a great fit for young learners moving up from Starters, typically after around 175 hours of English exposure. Whether in school or a learning centre, this stage helps your child use English in both structured settings and everyday life.
Understanding instructions, words, sounds
Recognising words, writing simple answers
Describing, answering, and responding
*A gentle note to parents: While our age ranges offer a helpful starting point, they’re only guidelines. What truly matters is where your child feels confident and supported. That’s why we welcome learners of all ages based on their current English level and comfort.
At your placement assessment, we’ll take the time to understand your child’s needs and recommend the path that’ll allow them to grow best. Our priority is helping them feel empowered, encouraged, and excited to learn.
A2 Flyers is the final step in the Cambridge English Young Learners journey and a proud milestone for your child. At this stage, they begin using English with real independence. They can follow longer conversations, describe their thoughts clearly, and understand short stories. It’s a sign that their language skills are growing in depth and confidence.
As they progress through Flyers, your child will:
Flyers is ideal for children who have completed Movers or have around 250 hours of English learning. More importantly, it suits learners who are starting to think in English rather than translate and who want to express their thoughts more freely.
Age is just one part of the picture. We will help you figure out the best path forward.
Understand longer spoken English, including stories and conversations
Read short texts, answer questions, and write simple paragraphs
Talk about pictures, describe events, and respond naturally
*A gentle note to parents: While our age ranges offer a helpful starting point, they’re only guidelines. What truly matters is where your child feels confident and supported. That’s why we welcome learners of all ages based on their current English level and comfort.
At your placement assessment, we’ll take the time to understand your child’s needs and recommend the path that’ll allow them to grow best. Our priority is helping them feel empowered, encouraged, and excited to learn.
Yes, Cambridge qualifications are trusted around the world. Even at this early stage, your child is starting a path that leads to globally recognised achievements.
It depends on your child’s starting point, but on average, learners spend a year at each level. Our teachers will work with your child at their own pace — no rushing, no stress.
That’s totally fine. The age ranges are just a guide — what matters more is your child’s comfort level and current English ability. We offer a free placement assessment to help find the perfect fit.