When should my child start preparing for the 11 plus?
For most children, somewhere between 12 and 18 months before the exam works well, which usually means the start of Year 5. That gives us enough time to build solid foundations without it ever feeling rushed. Every child is different though, and I've helped plenty of children make great progress in a shorter time too. The one thing I'd say is that the earlier we start, the calmer the whole process tends to be, and spaces do fill up as the exams get closer.
What if my child is behind or struggling in certain areas?
That's honestly what the free assessment is for. I'll find exactly where the gaps are and then we work through them together, step by step. A lot of the children I teach come to me feeling shaky about a particular area, and Non-Verbal Reasoning is a really common one, and it often ends up being one of their strongest. There's never any judgement here, just a clear way forward.
How do online lessons work?
Online lessons run on my own tutoring software, which I built specifically for 11 plus work rather than using a standard video call. It has a shared whiteboard and exam-style practice built in, so the lessons feel just as engaging as sitting together in person. All your child needs is a laptop or tablet and an internet connection. A lot of families actually come to prefer it, mainly for the flexibility and not having to travel anywhere.
Do you guarantee my child will pass or get into a specific school?
I'll be honest with you: no tutor can promise a place. So much depends on how a child does on the day and how competitive a school happens to be that year. What I can promise is that I'll prepare your child as well as I possibly can, with solid subject knowledge, sharp exam technique, and the confidence to show what they can do. I think my track record and the families who recommend me say the rest.
What's the difference between one-to-one and group sessions?
One-to-one lessons are entirely focused on your child and move at exactly their pace, so they're the most personal option. Small group sessions of two to four children cost a bit less, still stay nicely focused, and add a friendly, motivating feel that some children really enjoy. Both work online or in person, and I'm always happy to suggest which I think would suit your child best.
Which areas and schools do you cover?
In person, I teach across Peterborough and the surrounding areas, preparing children for the Lincolnshire grammars like Bourne and Spalding, and across North, West and Central London for schools such as Henrietta Barnett, QE Boys and St Michael's. Online, I work with families anywhere in the UK. Wherever you are, I tailor everything to the specific schools your child is aiming for.
How much does tuition cost?
It depends on which option you go for, whether that's pay-as-you-go, a monthly block, an intensive block or group sessions, and whether lessons are online or in person. Since every child needs something slightly different, I'd rather talk it through with you properly. Get in touch and I'll explain the options, and we can arrange a free assessment at the same time.