Getting your child into an independent school can appear challenging at first, but with the right approach and preparation, it can be the route to academic and personal success. In this guide, we offer ten useful tips and hints to help you understand the admissions process, ranging from choosing the right school through to ensuring your child is properly prepared.
AuthorHollyRead4 minutes
Choosing the right prep school for your child is a crucial part of their educational journey to future success. With so many areas to consider, from admissions and entrance exams to safeguarding and pastoral care, it's essential to make the right choice. This short guide will help you understand the process, ensuring you find a prep school that aligns with you and your child's needs and future aspirations.
AuthorHollyRead3 minutes
In this blog post, Meredith explains the different types of reading comprehension questions you can expect in the ‘comprehension’ part of an entrance exam, with examples and tips for answering each. This is a must-read if your child will be sitting the 7 Plus or 8 Plus entrance exam.
AuthorMeredithRead6 minutes
In this article, experienced teacher and school entrance tutor, Katherine, outlines the format and top tips for the new Alleyn's 11+ assessments.
AuthorKatherineRead7 minutes
Preparing for the Tiffin Girls School Stage 2 test following the arrival of Stage 1 results has to be completed in a short time frame. How can you prepare your child for the Stage 2 tests? Read on to find out more about the process, including dates and the examination itself.
AuthorHollyRead2 minutes
Are you considering a boarding education for your UK-based child due to family circumstances? Does your child need to live away from home during term time? State boarding schools might be one solution. This blog explains more about state boarding schools and why they could be the right choice for your family.
How does handwriting impact performance at 7+, 8+ and beyond? If your child is preparing for a handwriting assessment such as that expected for St Paul's School as part of the English test, handwriting practice is essential. Read on to discover why this skill forms an essential component of your child's progress towards success at entrance examinations.
Parents and guardians considering whether or not their child should sit school entrance exams in the UK will hear of two main testing providers: CEM and GL Assessment. This article explores the differences between CEM and GL Assessment, and provides an overview of how they can be used to assess potential.
Looking for an occasional place at a grammar school? If your child was unsuccessful at 11+ for a grammar school or if you have recently moved to a new area, you may be considering an "occasional place". This blog explains what these are, how to apply and, most importantly, how to maximise your chances of success.
Grammar school exams vary considerably. In this blog, we aim to explain how the examination process works at 11+, including content, types of exams and preparation.
If you decide to apply for grammar school, this forms a crucial stage in your child's educational journey. Knowing the key dates and expectations for the process is important. Read on to learn more about the process of applying for a grammar school place.
Are you looking at grammar schools and aren't sure where to start?
Parents looking into private schooling for their children often have many questions about the costs involved. From tuition fees to additional expenses for boarding and day schools, understanding the financial commitment is essential. This guide breaks down the various factors and ranges to help you make an informed decision.
AuthorOwl TutorsRead3 minutes
In this blog, Holly explores why schools use CAT4 testing, the different elements of the test, what the results of the CAT4 test mean and how you can help your child to tackle the tests.
With spring finally on its way and longer days ahead, this selection of seasonal classics will keep young minds engaged, offering a sugar-free indulgence in between the Easter eggs! Rather than focusing on contemporary works, we've suggested some classic stories which are so important for 11+ candidates to read!
AuthorHollie-LouiseRead2 minutes
Hollie suggests some festive fables which 11 Plus Candidates should be able to tackle in Year 5 ahead of their exams. Our take on "The 12 Days of Christmas"... "The 12 books of Christmas!"
In this blog, Caroline sets out the importance of children having a broad vocabulary and how this can strengthen their 11 plus English and Verbal Reasoning preparation. Using her 8 Top Tips, over time, your child's language and communication skills will be supported and enriched.
AuthorOwl TutorsRead5 minutes
In this blog, Hollie suggests six spooky stories that 11 Plus candidates should be able to tackle in Year 5 ahead of their exams.
The UK has a great reputation for top-quality schooling and attracts a number of international students every year. Moving to a new school can be challenging, but moving to an entirely new school system can feel overwhelming. Chloe, a qualified teacher with experience teaching in the UK and overseas, shares her thoughts on the key differences.
AuthorChloeRead8 minutes
In this blog, experienced teacher and tutor Alison, explores the best way to support your child with a school move. Whether you are moving locally or internationally, Alison sets out how to handle an important change sensitively.
AuthorAlisonRead10 minutes
In this article Holly provides a comprehensive guide to the Kent test and the best way to prepare for it. An experienced and qualified teacher, Holly has taught and tutored in Kent for a number of years.
AuthorOwl TutorsRead7 minutes
In this blog, school entrance expert and teacher, Holly, outlines top tips to tackle reasoning tests. Verbal and Non-verbal reasoning tests are used by most independent and grammar schools to help with their selection process. These handy hints should help your child tackle what can be quite challenging questions.
AuthorHollyRead7 minutes
In the final part of the ‘Types of’ 7 Plus preparation series, Meredith describes some of the different interview questions that could come up and offers some tips to prepare for them.
AuthorMeredithRead4 minutes
In this blog, the second in a series of 'Types of...' 7 Plus preparation posts, Meredith outlines a range of different creative writing prompts that can appear in the English paper and offers some useful insight and handy tips for preparing for each one.
In this blog, Alexandra outlines the necessary steps in preparing your child for a move from a state school to an independent school. Whilst this can be a daunting process, there are also many exciting opportunities that shouldn't be forgotten!
AuthorAlexRead6 minutes
In this blog, Emily offers some suggested reading matter for those students embarking on their 11+ journey. There are many more to come so keep an eye on the blog for any reluctant readers out there!
AuthorOwl TutorsRead2 minutes
Four simple steps to staying 'match fit' for the upcoming 11+ season. With children having to cope with the stresses of lockdown and school closures, Ally provides some valuable advice on how to stay on track with 11 Plus preparation.
AuthorAllyRead3 minutes
Josephine is an experienced English teacher and school entrance tutor. Here, she provides 6 clear steps that will allow pupils to breakdown the complex language of the 19th Century novel, which will stand 13 Plus scholarship candidates in good stead.
AuthorJosephineRead3 minutes
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.
AuthorJudithRead5 minutes
In this blog, Sophie, a qualified English Teacher and Owl Tutor, has compiled a list of websites which offer resources for 11 Plus preparation. Focusing on the 11+ English and Reasoning papers, these free resources are great practice for any budding school entrance exam candidates.
In this blog, our lead 13 Plus Science tutor Phil uses "Pokemon Go" to explain the difference between fair testing and repeated tests. Knowing the difference could help secure top marks at Common Entrance.
AuthorPhilRead5 minutes
In this blog, Sobia takes an in-depth look at the 13+ Harrow and Eton scholarship papers in English, Maths and Science, and offers some useful tips to keep in mind.
AuthorSobiaRead4 minutes
Wondering if your child’s special educational needs (SENs) will be taken into consideration during school entrance exams? This blog outlines who may be eligible for exam concessions, which arrangements can be made to assist your child in their exams and how to get your child the best support available for them to succeed.
Everything you need to know about the Alleyn's School 11 Plus application process and entrance exams, including 11 Plus Maths and English sample papers.
AuthorFinnianRead5 minutes
Are you considering applying to City of London School for 11 Plus entry? If so, here's everything you need to know about the application process and entrance exams.
AuthorFinnianRead4 minutes
Are you hoping for your son to win a place at Dulwich College at 11 Plus? We've set out what to expect from the process.
In this blog Holly sets out some clear solutions to the issues posed by the unseen poetry question in the 13+ English exam, alongside some tips for those aiming for Scholarship. Understanding some of the easier ways to approach poetry will give your child a chance to shine in this component of the exam.
AuthorHollyRead5 minutes
In this blog, Sobia - an experienced school entrance tutor - explains the Eton College admissions procedure for 13+ candidates, and provides a clear step-by-step guide of what to expect at the different stages.
AuthorSobiaRead3 minutes
When preparing students for the 9 Plus school entrance exams, you may find that there aren't a great number of resources out there (especially compared with the 7 or 8 Plus). This blog suggests a few resources which can be used by students as a starting point for 9 Plus preparation.
Is your child worried about an upcoming interview at 11 or 13 Plus? Finnian, one of our most experienced school entrance tutors, gives a valuable set of tips and hints for both parents and students in how to succeed at this tricky point in the process.
In this blog, Claire gives you some guidance on how best to manage your child's 11+ preparation in the final month leading up to their entrance exams.
AuthorClaireRead4 minutes
In this blog, Hannah shares her top lessons learned from the 2018/2019 round of 7 Plus and 8 Plus exams. If you are entering your child for the 7+ or 8+ in the next couple of months, 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.
AuthorOwl TutorsRead6 minutes
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.
In this blog, professional tutor Sobia outlines the benefits of having an all-round tutor who can teach all subjects tested at 11+ and 13+ level.
This year, St Paul’s School are changing things up for the 7 and 8 Plus entrance exams, and the English paper will now include a dictation rather than a creative writing task (composition). It is worth considering that other schools may follow suit, and in this blog, Meredith sets out how best to prepare for this exam format.
The Common Entrance exam has been used since 1904 to select pupils for entry to private schools. The i Newspaper took a look at sample questions written by Owl Tutors to see just how hard the exams can be.
AuthorOwl TutorsRead1 minute
In this blog Sobia discusses the daunting process of interviewing for a school place, and outlines possible questions asked as well as tips and techniques for success.
AuthorSobiaRead5 minutes
In this blog, Claire (a professional tutor) discusses the benefits of having specialist subject tutors for 11+ English and Maths.
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.
AuthorRosieRead4 minutes
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.
AuthorOwl TutorsRead4 minutes
In this blog, Sobia gives you an idea of what to expect in 16+ Biology, Chemistry and Physics entrance exams. While knowledge recall is important, schools will be looking for candidates who illustrate strong analytical skills and a real understanding of key scientific concepts.
In this blog - the second of a two-part series - Science tutor Phil provides advice on revision methods and exam technique for students sitting 13 Plus Common entrance Science. Once the basics have been mastered, a thorough revision plan and knowing what to expect in the exam will set students up for success.
AuthorPhilRead6 minutes
In this blog, Phil, an experienced school entrance tutor, sets out how students can ensure success at 13 Plus Common entrance Science. Mastering the basic theories, equations and laws is essential and Phil provides a helpful list of topics which simply must be memorised by 13 Plus candidates. This is the first of a two part series.
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.
AuthorMeredithRead5 minutes
Eton is arguably the most famous boarding school in the world. In this blog, Ed sets out the main aspects of the Eton admissions procedure with hints and tips that might maximise your son's chances.
Are you hoping for your child to win one of the places at University College School at 7+? Read on! This blog tells you everything you need to know about the application process: from registering your child to applying, exams and the interview process.
AuthorRosieRead2 minutes
Are you hoping for your child to win one of the places at Haberdashers’ Aske’s Girls’ School at 7+? Read on! This blog tells you everything you need to know about the application process: from registering your child to applying, exams and the interview process.
AuthorRosieRead3 minutes
Are you hoping for your child to win one of the places at Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys’ School at 7+? Read on! This blog tells you everything you need to know about the application process: from registering your child to applying, exams and the interview process.
Are you hoping for your child to win one of the places at South Hampstead at 7+? Read on! This blog tells you everything you need to know about the application process: from registering your child to applying, exams and the interview process.
Are you hoping for your child to win one of the places at North London Collegiate School at 7+? This guide tells you everything you need to know about the application process: from registering your child, to pre-tests, exams and the interview.
Are you hoping for your daughter to win one of the places at JAGS at 7+? This guide tells you everything you need to know about the application process: from registering your child, to pre-tests, exams and the interview.
Are you hoping for your child to win one of the places at Forest School at 7+? Read on! This guide tells you everything you need to know about the application process: from registering your child, to pre-tests, exams and the interview.
Are you hoping for your child to win one of the places at Chepstow House at 7+? Read on! This blog tells you everything you need to know about the application process: from registering your child, to pre-tests, exams and the interview.
Are you hoping for your son to win one of the places at Westminster Under School at 7+? 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.
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.
Are you hoping for your son to win one of the places at St Paul's Junior School at 7+? 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.
Are you considering Latymer Prep for 7+? Hopefully this will help!
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.
Are you hoping for your son to win one of the places at Kings College Wimbledon at 7+? This blog tells you everything you need to know about the application process: from registration to exams and the interview.
Are you hoping for your child to win one of the places at Highgate at 7+? Read on! This blog tells you everything you need to know about the application process: from registration to exams and the interview.
Are you hoping for your son to win one of the places at Dulwich Prep at 7+? 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.
In this blog, Emma discusses the skills needed to successfully approach the Radley 13+ Maths Scholarship papers.
In this blog, Pamela explores the process of applying to secondary school. Having a thorough understanding of the admissions criteria and application process can help make the process stress-free.
AuthorPamelaRead4 minutes
In this blog, Pamela explores Independent Secondary Schools in Oxfordshire and talks you through the registration and application process. Pamela also provides a handy "Timeline for Year 6" and a list of Independent Secondary Schools in the county.
AuthorPamelaRead3 minutes
In this blog, Pamela talks you through the application process for Buckinghamshire grammar schools. Here you will find everything you need to know, including: a list of Grammar schools in Bucks, a handy checklist of things to research or consider, information regarding the Transfer Test and key dates for 2018 admissions.
In this open letter to Bob Dylan, Finnian challenges the winner of the 2016 Nobel Prize in Literature to sit an 11 Plus paper. He may have a way with words, but would the famous song writer's performance in a comprehension or composition exam secure him a place at Emanuel School or Wycombe Abbey?!
AuthorFinnianRead3 minutes
Are you hoping for your daughter to win one of the 120 places at JAGS at 11+? Read on!
An overwhelming educational concern among parents/guardians of secondary school students is that their child does not read enough and that they may struggle with the English Language GCSE. This blog sets out five easy things you can do at home to help improve your child’s English Language skills.
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, Cecilia sets out how you can help your child to develop their story writing skills and grab the attention of the examiner.
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?
AuthorSarahRead4 minutes
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.
AuthorJudithRead7 minutes
Every year in late November or early December, thousands of students in London sit the Wandsworth Test. Although no school in the borough is fully selective, some do hold back a significant portion of their places for students scoring the highest grades on the test.
AuthorFinnianRead12 minutes
AuthorJudithRead8 minutes
All 4+ exams are based on active learning, engagement in tasks and an ability to show co-operation, manners and tact in social environments. These are all skills which can be developed at home by parents or with a tutor. Judith, an experienced teacher, shows us how
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