What is the Common Pre-Test?
School admissions can be daunting with the multitude of tests and timescales, especially for families based overseas. If you are seeking a place at a UK independent school, your child may need to take the Common Pre-Test. This test is increasingly being used for 11 plus and 13 plus admissions and is usually taken in Year 6.
Here is my 1-minute guide for busy parents who are getting to grips with the Pre-Test.
The test includes Maths, English, and Reasoning. It takes around 2 and a half hours to complete (Mathematics 50 minutes, English 25 minutes, Non-verbal reasoning 32 minutes, Verbal reasoning 36 minutes). Although Mathematics and English are based on the Year 5 National Curriculum, the most challenging questions require higher levels of problem-solving and analytical skills. Mathematics takes up a sizeable proportion of the test so a strong foundation in this subject is essential. Reasoning tests draw on skills that are not taught explicitly at school however these skills can be nurtured in a variety of ways.
The test is completed online and is adaptive. Students start with medium-level questions and depending on their response, the questions become more challenging or easier. Students are not allowed to go back to previous questions. Guided practice and good exam technique can help students perform at their very best.
This age-standardised test can be taken overseas at the British Council or at your child’s school if arranged in advance with the senior school. It can only be taken once per academic year and the results are shared between all the schools that you have registered with.
Some schools may require additional assessments such as written papers in Maths and English as well as an interview.
School entrance exams can be stressful so we provide positive, engaging learning so students flourish and even enjoy the challenge with of course lots of support for parents! If you would like a helping hand with the Pre-Test or any other entrance exam, contact me for a free consultation.