Preparing for the 7 Plus composition paper: Using ‘wow’ words in writing

In addition to structure and content, the writing composition section of the 7 plus exam is designed to test a candidate's use of interesting vocabulary in their writing. This blog - written by Meredith, a professional school entrance tutor - explains how ‘wow’ words can enhance a piece of writing and sets out five ways to generate them.

Meredith September, 2019

Coping with 7 Plus exam stress: 5 mindful moments to help

Seven plus entrance exam preparation can be a stressful experience for both parents and students. This blog post outlines 5 mindfulness techniques to add some calm and joy to the process. It has been written by Meredith, an Owl Tutor with a background in psychology and counselling.

Meredith September, 2019

How to teach Phonics: A Step-by-Step Guide

In this blog, Rosie sets out a step-by-step guide to phonics: a method which teaches children to read by identifying the individual sounds in a word and blending them together.

Rosie May, 2019

Demystifying Phonics: A Parents’ Guide

In this blog, Rosie talks all things "Phonics", and sheds light on key terminology used by teachers, which some parents may find unfamiliar.

Rosie May, 2019

Preparing for the 7 Plus and 8 Plus: top tips to take away from the 2018/2019 exams

In this blog, Hannah shares her top lessons learned from 2018/2019 round of 7 Plus and 8 Plus exams. If you are considering entering your child for the 7+ or 8+, these helpful tips and observations from a full-time, professional tutor will give you a flavour of the kinds of things to expect from these assessments.

Hannah February, 2019 2 Comments

How to get into St Paul’s Junior School at 8+

Are you hoping for your son to win one of the places at St Paul's Junior School at 8+? Read on! This blog tells you everything you need to know about the application process: from registering your son, to pre-tests, exams and the interview.

Hannah July, 2018 2 Comments

How to get into Kings College Wimbledon at 8+

Are you hoping for your son to win one of the places at Kings College Wimbledon at 8+? This blog tells you everything you need to know about the application process, from registration to the assessment day itself.

Hannah July, 2018

10 recommended reads for 6 to 8 year olds

Finding high-quality books which your child enjoys reading is the first step to ensuring they become good readers and writers.
This blog gives some 'must reads' for children aged 6 to 8. The books listed are both good quality texts and highly popular with children of this age group.

Rosie December, 2017 2 Comments

Making exam preparation fun

Children are naturally curious and inquisitive creatures who love to learn. However, the high expectations set by schools and the pressures created by exams can often lead children to see their learning as a chore. This post gives some tips and advice on how to foster a child’s natural enthusiasm for learning and keep exam preparation fun.

Rosie December, 2017

Preparing for the 7 Plus composition paper: A Picture is worth a thousand words

As both a teacher and a tutor, Hannah has worked with many children who present as reluctant writers or who appear to not have many ideas to begin a story. "Talking Pictures" is a simple yet highly effective 4 step strategy to get your child’s creative juices flowing and to kick-start the story writing process.

Hannah August, 2017

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