Originally, the 7+ was designed for girls who traditionally mature quicker than boys, for whom the 8+ was designed. However, some boys’ schools now use both examinations. We would recommend opting for the 8+ if your child is a relatively slower developer, giving another year to grow in confidence and prepare for assessment. Remember that failure at this age can be damaging to confidence so, unless your child is a robust character, trying the 7+ first may not be wise.
Children typically sit the 7+ in January of Year 2 and the 8+ in January of Year 3 to join a prep school in the following September. However, it is important to note that the timings of the exams does differ from school to school, so do check the admissions page on their website! Many schools will also require a reference from your child’s current school.
It is often a daunting time for parents because pressure on children at this early age can be stressful and schools are protective about their selection process at this stage. Below, we have outlined the usual format of an assessment day but please note there are significant variations between schools. We also recommend what tutors should be doing and what your child can be doing for practice.
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Assessment Day Format
Most schools will invite students to sit paper-based assessments alongside a short interview and/or group activity. Only a small number of schools grant access to their past papers but it is worth using these for practice. Typically, students sit two exams, one in English and the other in Maths. Most 8+ English exams include English comprehension, a short creative writing piece as well as some grammar tasks. The Maths exam tends to focus on basic number operations. The tasks will have their roots in Key Stage 1 of the UK national curriculum. Some schools will also include a reasoning component.
Interviews at this stage will usually include a one on one chat with the member of staff and some group tasks. Generally, the tone of the interview will be relaxed and will cover topics such as a child’s hobbies and interests, both academic and extracurricular. With respect to the group tasks, they are typically classroom-based assessment activities. The aim of interviews and group activities at this stage is to see how your child structures and communicates their thoughts and interacts with adults as well as their peers.
Tutoring
We recommend that tutors start by reinforcing the primary literacy and numeracy curriculum being taught at school before looking to stretch students academically. Tutors should look to develop students’ abilities to sit examinations and the skills associated with being successful test takers during their lessons (e.g. time keeping, exam vocabulary and structuring their answers).
It is essential that tutoring at this level is carried out by someone with experience of the delivery and teaching methods of the primary curriculum as many of the foundations for future learning are laid during these ages.
Please don't hesitate to give us a call on 0207 602 5310 if you have any queries about the 7+ or 8+ or would like to arrange a tutor to provide some extra support.