8+ · Ages 7–8
First steps into exams.
The 7+ and 8+ are entry points into independent prep schools and the junior schools of senior schools. There is no national test: each school sets its own assessment. The 7+ is for entry into Year 3 and is usually sat in Year 2, between October and January. The 8+ is for entry into Year 4 and is usually sat in January of Year 3. Registration often closes in the autumn before, so it pays to plan early.
What schools assess
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English: reading, comprehension and writing, and at some schools reading aloud.
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Maths: number skills and problem solving.
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Reasoning: verbal and non-verbal reasoning at many schools.
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A second stage: often an interview, group or classroom activities, and a reference from the current school.
Leading London schools with 7+ and 8+ entry
Entry at 8+ (Year 4) is offered by schools including Sussex House, Wetherby Prep, Eaton House The Manor, The Harrodian, UCS and Dulwich College Junior School. Places at 8+ are often fewer than at 7+, so many families consider both.
Entry at 7+ (Year 3) is offered by schools including Westminster Under School, St Paul's Prep School, Highgate, Latymer Prep, Alleyn's Junior School, North London Collegiate Junior School, South Hampstead High Junior School, Notting Hill & Ealing High Junior School, Haberdashers' Girls' School and Lady Eleanor Holles Junior School.
Each school sets its own format and dates, so we tailor preparation to the schools on your list.
How we help
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Strong foundations: reading, writing and number skills, taught carefully and in the right order.
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Reasoning: short, enjoyable puzzles that build verbal and non-verbal reasoning.
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Familiar formats: gentle practice with the kinds of tasks schools set, so the day itself feels familiar.
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Talking with confidence: practice for interviews and group activities, so children can talk happily about what they enjoy.
Keeping it calm
At seven or eight, the aim is a confident, curious child, not a drilled one. Our tutors keep sessions short, varied and encouraging, so children enjoy the challenge and walk into their assessment feeling ready.
INSPIRE
A kind, encouraging tutor turns a first assessment into an exciting challenge rather than a worry.
LEARN
Confident reading and writing, secure number skills, problem solving and early reasoning.
GROW
Calm, curious children who enjoy a challenge and can talk happily about what they love.