Where Does Cambridge Flyers Sit on the CEFR Scale?
Cambridge Flyers corresponds to A2 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) โ described as "Basic User" level, with the ability to understand and communicate in familiar situations. It is a solid foundation โ but A2 is still the beginning of a longer journey towards B2 (equivalent to First Certificate) and C1 (Advanced) at secondary and university level.
The Cambridge Pathway After Flyers
| Exam | CEFR Level | Recommended Age | Step from Flyers |
|---|---|---|---|
| A2 Key for Schools (KET for Schools) | A2 | 11โ14 years | Natural next step |
| B1 Preliminary for Schools (PET for Schools) | B1 | 13โ16 years | After KET, or direct if level warrants |
| B2 First for Schools (FCE for Schools) | B2 | 15+ years | Secondary school target |
| C1 Advanced (CAE) | C1 | 17+ years | University or international study goal |
How Does KET for Schools Differ from Flyers?
| Criteria | Cambridge Flyers (A2 YLE) | A2 Key for Schools |
|---|---|---|
| CEFR Level | A2 | A2 |
| Exam duration | ~75 minutes | ~2 hours |
| Papers | 3 papers | 3 papers |
| Reading & Writing | 7 parts, picture-supported | 6 parts, longer texts |
| Scoring | Shields (1โ15, no pass/fail) | Percentage; Pass / Merit / Distinction |
| Target age | 6โ12 years | 11โ14 years |
When Is the Right Time to Take KET for Schools?
- 13โ15 shields in Flyers โ can begin KET preparation sooner
- 9โ12 shields in Flyers โ 6โ9 months of consolidation recommended before moving to KET
- Below 9 shields โ consider retaking Flyers or consolidating the Flyers foundation first
A Suggested Progression Timeline
| Stage | Exam | Cumulative Study Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Age 6โ7 | Starters (Pre-A1) | ~100 hours |
| Age 8โ9 | Movers (A1) | ~150 hours |
| Age 10โ11 | Flyers (A2) | ~200 hours |
| Age 11โ13 | A2 Key for Schools | ~300 hours |
| Age 13โ15 | B1 Preliminary for Schools | ~450 hours |
| Age 15โ17 | B2 First for Schools | ~600 hours |
Maintaining the Flyers Foundation in the Gap Period
The period between completing Flyers and beginning KET preparation often lasts 6โ12 months โ time that can easily become a gap in practice if there is no regular revision. Flyers English helps children maintain and strengthen the vocabulary, grammar and listening skills built at Flyers level โ ensuring a strong foundation is in place when KET preparation begins at the centre.
Summary
Cambridge Flyers is a genuinely impressive achievement โ and the best foundation for progressing to A2 Key for Schools. The right next step depends on shields achieved, age, and your child's longer-term English goals. Talk to your child's teacher or centre about the optimal timing โ and in the meantime, maintain consistent daily practice so the strong foundation built for Flyers is not lost.