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

How to prepare your child for interview at 7+ and 8+

In this blog, Hannah sets out five activities which can help your child to prepare for their 7 Plus or 8 Plus school entrance interview. Using these five activities as part of a long-term strategy will build your child's confidence in speaking and ensure their personality shines through on the day.

Hannah February, 2017 2 Comments

How to help your child write a great start to their story

Many entrance exams at 7+, 8+ and 11+ ask children to write a story – usually giving around half an hour for this part of the assessment. In such a short time, the beginning of the story should be captivating! In this blog, Hannah sets out how you can help your child to develop their story writing skills and grab the attention of the examiner.

Hannah November, 2016

Technology to help with School Entrance tuition

Parents often ask what I think about children and their use of technology at home. Should I let my child read a book on the Kindle? Are learning apps any good? My child spends a large amount of time watching videos on YouTube, should I be concerned?

Sarah August, 2016

Eight top tips for home schooling Primary-aged children

Home-schooling is becoming an increasingly popular choice for parents all over the UK and internationally, and having worked both in schools and with children in their own homes, it is clear that children are able to access a well-rounded education whatever the setting! These tips aim to give some practical advice to those who are either currently, or considering, home-schooling their children.

Judith July, 2016

What are the differences between the 7+ and 8+ exam?

Sitting the 7+ and 8+ exam can be a daunting prospect, so it is important that children become familiar with working under strict time constraints before the exam. There is significant competition for entry into schools at both 7+ and 8+. For example, for every one place at Westminster Under or Colet Court, 8 or more boys sit the entrance exam.

Judith December, 2015