My lads finally moved onto 11 a sides at the age of 11, 2 years after his coaches judged him to be ready to step up. Daft rules like forcing those of a certain age to stay with 7 a sides hold boys back as well.
Done well in his first few games, played in a few different positions to give him a feel for the problems posed all over the pitch. There is no set pattern for success, has to be tailored to individuals and that's where good coaches come into it. If they see a boy ready to step up they promote him, not some stupid age rule.