The control test in the canton of Bern: The comprehensive guide for parents and students
The transition from primary level to lower secondary level represents a decisive turning point in the educational career of every pupil. In the canton of Bern, this transition takes place at the end of the 6th grade, and the control test plays an important role if there is no agreement on the assignment. In this blog post, you will learn everything you need to know about this important step.
The path to the control test
Ideally, the decision on the future school type or level is made jointly by teachers, parents and pupils. This decision is based on various factors, including school performance in Year 5 and the first semester of Year 6, the so-called observation period. The assessment also includes an evaluation of the child's potential performance development and personal skills, such as independence.
The control test only comes into play if no mutual agreement can be reached between parents and teacher despite mutual efforts. In this case, the parents receive the transfer protocol and can decide for themselves whether they would like their child to take the control test Register .
Exam structure and requirements
The control test is a standardized and uniform cantonal performance test that is carried out in all three subjects relevant for transfer. There are 90-minute written tests in mathematics and German. French comprises both a written and an oral part, which together also last 90 minutes.
It is particularly important to know that the examination result replaces the allocation recommendation of the class teacher and becomes the sole basis for the allocation decision. From 55 points per subject, students are assigned to secondary school level. In municipalities with special secondary school classes, a higher requirement applies: at least 75 points per subject must be achieved in order to be assigned to the special secondary school level.
Organizational details
The Registration for the control test must be submitted by February 20 at the latest. This includes the signed transfer record and a photo of the child. The exam itself takes place at various locations in the canton, with all pupils completing the same tasks at the same time under identical conditions.
Special examination conditions can be requested for certain groups of pupils. This applies, for example, to foreign-language children, newly arrived children, pupils with health restrictions or learning difficulties such as dyslexia or ADHD. It is important to note that the adjustments only affect the modalities, not the examination requirements themselves.
Control test preparation - the path to success
Systematic preparation is the decisive factor for passing the inspection test. With our specialized control test courses at MyTutor-Bern we prepare your child specifically and effectively for this important exam.
Our control test preparation courses in detail
The control test course can be taken as individual lessons or in small groups. In individual one-to-one lessons, our experienced teachers focus specifically on the needs of your child. The cost of this intensive exam preparation course is between CHF 30 and CHF 59 per lesson, depending on the chosen scope and combination of subjects.
Particularly popular is our Control exam course in small groupsHere, students not only benefit from the low price of CHF 33 per lesson, but also from learning together. When booking two subjects, the price is even reduced to CHF 29 per lesson. The group dynamic has an additional motivating effect and promotes learning success.
All our Control Exam Preparation Courses are strictly based on the current examination requirements and are taught by teachers who are very familiar with the Bernese school system and the specific requirements of the control examination.
Exam contents and aids
The examination tasks are based on Curriculum 21 and the binding teaching materials of the Canton of Bern. The following aids are permitted in the mathematics examination:
- A protractor or ruler
- A pocket calculator (without programming function)
- Writing utensils
For the French section, the oral examinations are conducted in groups of two, with the groups being formed by the examination supervisor. The students have the opportunity to demonstrate their language skills in various communication situations.
Special regulations for special cases
Special provisions apply to pupils who have recently moved to the Canton of Bern. If they have had less than two years of French lessons, they can be exempted from the French exam. In this case, the average of the results in German and mathematics is used for the allocation.
If you are unable to attend due to illness, you must cancel your registration at least 24 hours before the start of the examination. A medical certificate is required. The re-examination takes place approximately two weeks after the regular examination date.
Examination procedure and timetable
The exam day is clearly structured:
- The exams start punctually in the morning
- There are appropriate breaks between the exams
- Pupils must be at the examination venue 15 minutes before the start of the examination
- Personal documents and the approved aids must be brought along
The examination rooms are quiet and bright to ensure optimal conditions for concentration. An invigilator is present during the exam to ensure that everything runs smoothly.
Tips for the exam day
To be as well prepared as possible on the day of the exam, we recommend:
- Sufficient sleep the night before the exam
- A balanced breakfast
- Arrive at the examination venue on time
- Provide all necessary documents and aids
- Approach tasks calmly and with concentration
After the test
Once the examination has been completed, parents are informed of the result by the primary school management. It is important to know that it is still possible to transfer to the lower secondary level after the transfer. A promotion to the next higher school type or level is possible at any time if there is a reasonable assumption that the pupil will meet the requirements.
Conclusion
The control test is undoubtedly an important milestone in your child's school career. However, with the right preparation and support, this challenge can be mastered well. MyTutor-Bern is at your side as an experienced partner and offers the right support for your child.
Would you like to find out more about our preparation courses or do you have any questions about the control test? Contact us - we will be happy to advise you personally and find the best solution for your child together.
