Cambridge Starters, Movers, and Flyers

The Cambridge Starters, Movers, and Flyers exams, also known as the Young Learners English (YLE) tests, are a series of English language proficiency assessments designed for children. The exams are part of the Cambridge English Qualifications and are recognized internationally. They’re designed to make language learning enjoyable for children by incorporating age-appropriate content, colourful visuals, and interactive elements. The progression from Starters to Movers to Flyers provides a structured pathway for young learners to develop their English skills in a fun and engaging way.

Linked to the CEFR, Can Do statements show what a learner can do at each level. Read the Can Do statements for Starters, Movers and Flyers.
A Cambridge exam for Young Learners just starting out on their English language journey.Cambridge Pre A1 Starters

Sample Pre A1 Starters Listening Test

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Part 4

What is Pre A1 Starters?

Pre A1 Starters, formerly known as Cambridge English: Starters (YLE Starters), is the first of three Cambridge English Qualifications. It is the start of a child’s language learning journey.

Pre A1 Starters is the first of three Cambridge English Qualifications designed for young learners. These tests introduce children to everyday written and spoken English and are an excellent way for them to gain confidence and improve their English.

The tests are written around familiar topics and focus on the skills needed to communicate effectively in English through listening, speaking, reading and writing.

One  World Learning uses Pre-school ‘Let’s Begin’ for Cambridge Starters and Movers and ‘Let’s Go’ for Cambridge Flyers. We supplement the coursebook with a variety of material from various sources. Students can access copies of materials from their online folder.

What is included in an Exam course?

  • 60-minute class.

  • Because there’s no pass or fail, lessons are light and friendly.

  • The classes cover all major varieties of English (e.g. British English, American English).

  • All class materials are accessible from online folders.

What’s in the Starters exam?

The test has three sections and lasts about 45 minutes.  CEFR Scale Score: 80-100 (CEFR is the Common European Framework Reference). Find out more about the CEFR here.

Brief content of the Starters exam.
Pre-A1 Starters Paper ContentMarks
Listening (about 20 minutes)4 parts/ 20 questionsa maximum of five shields
Reading and Writing (20 minutes)5 parts/ 25 questionsa maximum of five shields
Speaking (3-5 minutes)4 partsa maximum of five shields
Details showing the format, content and timings for each section of the Cambridge exams.

Some frequently asked questions about the exam

  • There are over 2,800 centres in 130 countries around the world. All of them are inspected by Cambridge English and meet our high standards. Contact One World Learning to arrange a test date and to check prices and booking fees.

  • One World Learning can arrange with your nearest test centre. There are frequent dates with over 20 tests a year. Contact One World Learning for this year’s dates.

  •  Unfortunately, this test is paper-based only.

  • Children take all their test papers within a period of five days.

  • The Listening paper is always taken before the Reading and Writing paper.

  • Contact One World Learning or your agent for information on your local test centre and fees.

What materials do I need?

One World Learning provide you with an online folder with your course material available for download. However, there are several essential requirements to ensure a smooth and effective learning experience.

  • A personal computer or laptop with up-to-date hardware and software is necessary.

  • Classes contain video and audio playback so a stable and high-speed internet connection is recommended for attending online classes.

  • A webcam and microphone are essential for participating in virtual classes and discussions. Most computers come equipped with built in webcams and mics.

  • Headphones or earphones can help reduce background noise and provide a better audio experience during online classes.

  • Set up a dedicated and quiet study space where you can focus on your online classes without distractions.

  • Have digital or physical note-taking tools ready. This could be a notebook, digital note-taking app, or any other method you find effective.

By ensuring that you have these essentials, you’ll be well-prepared for a positive and productive online learning experience.