There used to be a misconception that the 7+ was somehow easier than the 8+. In my experience this is simply not the case. The 7+ often proves to be a test of maturity rather than of intellect. Some very able children often find the whole assessment process quite worrying and traumatic and do not do themselves justice on the day. The schools are not interested in making allowances for children who find the assessment difficult. They have such large numbers of candidates that they are ruthlessly weeded out and the standard expected is amazingly high for children of that age. The younger the candidates the more significant their birthday is – with such exams favouring those who are born in the early part of the academic year.

The Main point of entry for King’s College Wimbledon, SPJS and Latymer is 7+. Girls generally take a 7+ for Bute House or Latymer.

The 7+ is often the first exam that families have had to confront. Please try to be realistic about your child. If they are not at the top of their class or near it then why should they suddenly be accepted at the top academic schools? I quite understand the level of anxiety this engenders but do try to remember that education is a long game. Your child will be taking exams until they are 18 at least. Try to avoid creating the impression that exams are ‘difficult’ and stressful. The intention on the part of the schools is that they should accept children for whom the exams were merely a demonstration of what they already know.

We do not encourage over-preparation. The school want a feel for the ‘real’ child and they do not like rehearsed scripts at all.

We offer interview practice but this is to explain to parents and children what to expect so they have thought a little about some of the more obvious questions and can have some time to think about the less obvious. We encourage an awareness of positive behaviour and good manners.

Children do not need to be “prepared” for the King’s activity day. They will derive exactly the same benefit from having a playdate and socialising at school

Parents often mention the fact that their children are bi-lingual. I’m afraid this is not taken into consideration at all in terms of their performance in English exams.

One very disappointing trend last year was brought about by King’s having their exam earlier. This has now started to lead to parents ruining their summer holidays by seeking courses and tutoring earlier. I understand that people feel anxious but if you have worked steadily throughout the year and your child is clever and motivated, then try not to send them to too many mock exams and courses in the summer holidays. They will benefit more from cultural visits on holiday, sport and having a good rest.