Our latest education related articles

Many independent senior schools have incorporated ‘Pre-Tests’ as an initial entry assessment for Year 7 and 9 entry. Pre-Tests commonly form the first stage of the admissions process, and schools use them to identify the students who are most suitable to proceed to the next stage. Pre-Tests can be administered in written form or on a computer, with the ISEB Common Pre-Test being one of the most common assessments.

The ISEB Common Pre-Test is used by a range of independent schools in the UK including Eton College, Harrow School, Westminster School and St Paul’s School to assess children before the 13+ entrance exams and at a handful of schools as a pre-test to 11+ entry.

For international students applying to study at UK independent schools, the UKiset (UK Independent Schools’ Entry Test) is a crucial step in the admissions process. Designed for students aged 9 to 18, the test helps schools assess academic potential and English language skills before inviting applicants to sit their own entrance exams. Some schools may even offer places based solely on UKiset results combined with school reports.

What is the UKiset Test?

The UKiset is an adaptive, computer-based assessment used to evaluate a candidate’s academic abilities and English proficiency. It acts as a pre-test for UK independent schools, helping them identify the most suitable students from overseas. The test also provides insight into a candidate’s strengths, weaknesses, and learning preferences.

UKiset is particularly valuable for international students because it provides a standardised way for schools to compare applicants from different educational backgrounds.

In our modern world there are so many different ways to access information, from reading, to websites, to YouTube videos. A growing way to learn nowadays is through the use of podcasts and these are becoming increasingly popular within the realm of homeschooling. They are a fantastic resource due to the fact that they don’t involve staring at a screen, they can be used on the move, and they are accessible to everyone.

The 13+ interview is a crucial component of the admissions process for many independent schools in the UK. It provides schools with an opportunity to assess a candidate's personality, interests, and suitability for their academic environment. 

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the 13+ interview; from interview types and sample questions to expert tips from our 13+ tutor Ben.

In this guide, Keystone's experienced 7 plus tutor, Kathleen, outlines some key factors to consider when looking for a prep school at 7 plus entry. From school ethos to academic outcomes, Kathleen's advice will help you make an informed choice on the ‘right’ prep school for your child.

Parents are often thinking and planning far in advance for their child’s future. This sometimes involves a move at the 7 plus entry point to a prep school with the intention of the ‘right’ school being able to build the child up for the usual 11 plus transition point.

So how do you find the ‘right’ school? What is the ‘right’ pathway?

There is no simple answer to this question as what might greatly benefit one child could be a real struggle for another child. It is so important for parents to consider their child’s unique qualities when looking for what school is ‘right’ for them. This can be both a daunting and exciting decision to make.

Preparing for the 7 plus interview and assessment day can be a daunting process for both parents and children, but with the right guidance, it becomes an opportunity for children to showcase their potential. In this article, Keystone's 7 plus tutor Kathleen, shares her insights into typical 7+ interview questions and the format of assessment days, offering practical advice to help families navigate this important stage of prep school admissions. process. 

What happens after the 7 plus exams?

The 7 plus process is different for each school. If children are successful in getting through the examination stage, they are often invited for a follow-up assessment day. This may be for an extended half or full day of activities or a shorter interview session. Interviews can be done one-to-one or with a small group of children. As part of the selection process, the school is trying to build a holistic picture of your child. This is done through observations throughout their time at the school alongside interviews.

In this guide, Keystone's experienced 7 plus tutor Kathleen, breaks down everything you need to know about the 7 plus exam, from exam structure to key preparation tips based on your child's age, so your child can approach the exam with confidence.

What is the 7 Plus Exam?

The 7 plus exam is designed for children who are in Year 2, typically around the age of six or seven. These exams are usually held in the January of their Year 2 school year and are used to assess the readiness and suitability of students for admission in Year 3 to their chosen school. 

The 7 plus entry assessments will vary from school to school so it is important to find out how your chosen school will conduct their assessments. Most schools, however, will evaluate children based on their fundamental skills in reading, writing, and maths, typically through English and Maths papers. While some schools may incorporate assessments in verbal and non-verbal reasoning, these are less common.  

The 13 Plus Common Entrance (or CE) Exam is crucial in securing a place for your child at your chosen independent school. A good set of exam results will confirm school places – most CE candidates will have been offered a space at their choice of senior school already (by pre-test in year 7 or even year 6) – but subject to them achieving a pass in the 13 Plus exams - and be the final piece in the sometimes complex and nerve-wracking process! For an overview of how the 13 Plus fits within different entry points, see our Guide to UK School Entrance Exams.

In the article, Keystone's 13 Plus tutors have gathered together a range of helpful information and strategies for passing the 13 Plus Common Entrance Exam, based on their experience of successfully guiding hundreds of students through this demanding exam. For subject-specific advice, our 13 Plus English Preparation Guide and 13 Plus Maths Preparation Guide break down the key skills examiners look for.

The 13+ Common Entrance English exam is a key milestone for students applying to top independent schools. It assesses reading comprehension, creative writing and analytical skills. In this guide, Keystone's experienced 13+ Common Entrance tutor, Ben, breaks down the exam’s key components and shares his preparation strategies and top tips to help students feel confident approaching the exam. 

Primary enrichment enhances learning by fostering curiosity, confidence and critical thinking beyond the curriculum by helping children explore subjects in greater depth. In this guide, our primary tutors explore the benefits of enrichment activities and recommend some of their favourite resources.

The creative writing section of the 11+ exam is often one of the most daunting parts of the assessment. Examiners look for originality, structure, and engaging storytelling—skills that don’t always come naturally. 

In this article, we’ll explore key strategies to help your child succeed in 11+ creative writing, answering some frequently asked questions and then sharing insights from Cameron, an experienced 11+ Creative Writing tutor. With years of expertise preparing students for competitive entrance exams, Cameron shares his advice on planning stories, improving descriptive language, and mastering exam techniques.

Highgate School is one of the leading co-ed independent schools in the country. Situated a short distance from central London and adjacent to leafy Hampstead Heath, the school boasts an enviable location and is home to some best-in-class facilities among London schools, including a newly-opened Junior School building and an excellently equipped Art and Design Centre. Founded in 1595, Highgate is a school with a rich history paired with a modern and socially-minded outlook. Students are encouraged to take responsibility for themselves and for their role in society, practiced through initiatives such as community action groups and volunteering programmes.  

Highgate offers a rigorous, academically-minded education with a focus on scholarship and a belief in the enjoyment of learning for its own sake. It aims to cultivate curiosity and nurture confidence in its pupils, and equip them with the resilience, creativity and risk-taking needed for participation in higher education and the world of work.  

Deciding whether to pursue postgraduate study is a significant step, with many factors to consider - from choosing the right course to navigating applications and funding. In this article, Jenny McGowan, one of Keystone's experienced University Consultants, shares her insights on the benefits of further study, application strategies and key tips for making an informed decision. 

Country & Town House features Will Orr-Ewing in its Spring/Summer 2025 edition, where he discusses the impact of smartphones in schools. As the founder of Keystone Tutors, he highlights their effect on learning and advocates for stricter policies and legislation, including the Safer Phone Bill, to curb digital distractions and protect children.

Understanding the GCSE grading system is essential for parents supporting their child’s education, especially with the shift from the traditional letter (A*- G) grades to the numerical 9-1 scale. This article, written by Ben, one of Keystone's experienced GCSE tutors, simplifies the grading structure, explains its significance and highlights how GCSE results, along with predicted grades, can impact university applications. Whether you’re navigating grade boundaries, planning resits or considering university applications, this article provides the key information you need.

When it comes to deciding on the best educational path for students post GCSE, the choice between A Levels and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme is a topic of debate for many families. Both qualifications offer unique approaches to learning and present opportunities for children to excel academically at school and beyond.

In this article, Ed Richardson, Keystone's Managing Director explores some of the key differences between A Levels and the IB Diploma, looking at their structures, grading systems, and overall impact on university admissions. Whether you are a student considering your options or a parent seeking guidance, this article aims to provide valuable insights to help you make an informed decision on the right educational qualification for you. .

What is the IB Diploma?

The IB (formerly known as The International Baccalaureate Organization or IBO) was founded in 1968 and offers international recognised qualifications for students from 3 to 18.

The Diploma Programme, aimed at students between the ages of 16-18, was devised to "provide an internationally acceptable university admissions qualification suitable for the growing mobile population of young people whose parents were part of the world of diplomacy, international and multinational organizations." 

Whilst A Levels are typically sat by most sixth formers at UK schools, some schools (such as Sevenoaks and King’s College Wimbledon) offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) either alongside or instead of A Levels.

Despite being first taught in a UK school in 1971, the IBDP is currently available in 91 schools [link here https://www.ibyb.org/ib-world-schools-in-the-uk] – though the number grows each year. Nevertheless, it offers students and their parents a choice when it comes to their sixth form study options..

How is the IB structured?

IB students are required to select six subject courses to study. Students select their six subject courses from the following groups:

1. Studies in Language and Literature
2. Language Acquisition
3. Individuals and Societies
4. Sciences
5. Mathematics
6. Arts

Whilst students must study at least one subject from groups 1 to 5 they can opt to study an additional Sciences, Individuals and Societies, or Language Acquisition course instead of a course in the Arts.

Three subjects will be studied at Standard Level (SL) and three at Higher Level (HL). SL courses require up to 150 hours of teaching whereas HL courses comprise of 250 teaching hours. Consequently, HL study requires students to demonstrate a greater level of subject understanding and skill. 

In addition to the six subjects IB students must complete and pass the DP Core which is composed of 3 parts:

• Theory of Knowledge (TOK): in which students reflect on the nature of knowledge and on how we know what we claim to know.
• Extended Essay (EE): in which is an independent, self-directed piece of research, finishing with a 4,000-word paper.
• Creativity, activity and Service (CAS): in which students complete a project related to those three concepts.

How is the IB graded?

Students studying the DP receive grades between 7 and 1 for their six subject courses, with 7 being the highest score. Furthermore, theory of knowledge (TOK) and extended essay (EE) components are awarded individual grades and, collectively, can contribute a further 3 additional points towards the overall diploma score. Thus, the IB is out of 45 overall and students have to score 24 or more to pass.

How are the IB subjects assessed?

Each subject will have a combination of externally marked examinations and internally marked assessments, often called IAs. The percentage weighting of each of these components depends on the subject. The nature of internal assessments means that students are often working on assignments throughout the two years. 

What are A Levels?

A Level stands for ‘Advanced Level’ and they were introduced in 1951. A Levels are the nationally standardised qualification most UK educated students complete in Years 12 and 13, i.e., the final two years of school. There are International A Levels offered by exam boards for students studying outside of the UK.

How are A Levels structured?

Typically, students select 3 or 4 A Levels to focus on during their sixth form (i.e. Years 12 and 13). There are over 80+ subjects to study at A Level and no one subject is compulsory. Each A Level course is discrete and the breadth of subjects on offer will vary from school to school. Typically, students will be able to choose from:

• Those subjects they have studied before (e.g. Biology)
• Variations of subjects they have studied before (e.g. Further Maths)
• Completely new subjects (e.g. Psychology)

Students will often select A Level subjects which relate to or prepare them for what they wish to study at university. For example, students wishing to study Medicine at university will often choose Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Maths or a combination of.

How are A Levels graded?

A Levels are graded A* to E, although it is possible to receive a U, which stands for ungraded or unclassified. Although grade boundaries are liable to move year on year the correlation between % mark and overall is approximately as follows:

• A* 90%+
• A 80% -89%
• B 70% - 79%
• C 60% - 69%
• D 50% - 59%
• E 40% - 49%

How are A Levels assessed?

Most A Levels are assessed by externally set examinations at the end of the two year course. Some subjects will also have coursework components and the percentage weighting will vary by subject. This tends to be higher for practical subjects such as Art or Design and Technology whereas for subjects like Maths the final exams will account for 100% of the grade.

What are the differences between the IB and A Levels?

• The IB Diploma offers students a broader education than A Levels requiring them to study 6 subjects from across the subject range (Language and literature, Language acquisition, Individuals and Societies, Sciences, Mathematics, Arts).
• A Levels offer students the opportunity to choose the 3 or 4 subjects they wish to study without restriction.
• The IB’s more holistic approach also requires students to complete the DP core (Extended Essay, Theory of Knowledge and Creativity, Activity and Service) alongside their chosen subjects.
• Studying A Levels does not require this of students, although they may wish to complete an Extended Project Qualification, which is much like the Extended Essay.

Do universities prefer A-Levels or IB?

UK universities recognise both A Levels and IB qualifications equally. Whilst the A Level may be more common in UK schools, UK universities appreciate the depth of study, development of independent research skills and academic rigor of the IB Diploma. Looking further afield, European and American universities also recognise both qualifications.

Many parents are often stuck between choosing A-Levels or IB for their child. Here is a nifty table that clarifies the key differences.

If you want to find out more about A Levels and IB, watch our webinar below.

For parents and students navigating the UK education system, understanding the differences between IGCSEs and GCSEs is crucial when making an informed decision about which option to choose. Both qualifications have distinct structures, assessment methods and suitability depending on a child's learning style and future aspirations.

In this article, Ed Richardson, Managing Director of Keystone Tutors, breaks down the key differences between these two qualifications. With extensive experience in teaching and education consultancy, Ed provides insights to help families determine which pathway best suits their needs.

If you are looking for extra academic support, explore Keystone’s GCSE tutors and IGCSE tutors.

Preparing for exams across so many different GCSE subjects can feel overwhelming. Success at GCSE level starts with a well-structured study plan, consistent revision and mastering exam techniques. Top-performing students focus on understanding the subject material in depth, practicing past papers regularly, and refining their time management skills under exam conditions. In this blog, our GCSE tutors explore essential tips to those students hoping to achieve all 9s in their GCSEs.