What is the 7+ Entrance Exam?
The 7+ entrance exam is an assessment sat by children typically in Year 2 (ages 6-7) to secure a place at selective independent schools from Year 3 onwards. Whilst less common than the 11+ and 13+ examinations, the 7+ provides families with an earlier entry point into competitive independent education, particularly for London day schools and some preparatory schools.
Unlike older entrance assessments, the 7+ exam focuses on foundational literacy and numeracy skills, alongside evaluating a child's potential for academic development rather than extensive curriculum knowledge. Schools use these assessments to identify pupils who will thrive in their academic environment and benefit from their teaching approach.
The 7+ entrance exam carries significant weight in admissions decisions, though many schools also consider teacher references, school reports, and often conduct interviews or observation sessions to assess a child's suitability and readiness for their educational setting.
Who Takes the 7+ Exam and Why?
Families typically choose the 7+ route for several reasons. Some parents wish to transition their child into independent education earlier than the traditional 11+ entry point, ensuring a settled educational pathway through to senior school. Others seek access to schools that primarily admit at 7+ rather than later ages, making this their main opportunity for entry.
The 7+ exam is particularly relevant for families in London and major cities where selective independent schools often have 7+ entry cohorts. Schools such as Colet Court, Westminster Under School, and various girls' day schools regularly admit pupils at this age. Additionally, some preparatory schools situated outside major cities offer 7+ entry as a route into their programmes.
For parents, the 7+ offers the advantage of securing their child's educational future early, potentially reducing stress around later examinations. However, this must be balanced against the pressure placed on younger children and the commitment to a particular school well before they develop their own educational preferences.
Exam Format and Structure
The 7+ entrance exam typically comprises assessments in English and Mathematics, with some schools also including reasoning tests. The format varies considerably between schools, reflecting their individual priorities and assessment philosophies.
English Assessment
The English paper usually lasts 30-45 minutes and evaluates reading comprehension, vocabulary, spelling, and basic grammar. Children typically read a short passage or story before answering questions that test literal understanding and simple inference. Schools assess whether pupils can identify key information, understand chronological sequences, and recognise basic literary techniques such as rhyme or repetition.
Writing tasks may include creative story-writing from picture prompts, descriptive paragraphs, or simple instructional text. Assessors look for legible handwriting, phonetically plausible spelling attempts, appropriate use of capital letters and full stops, and the ability to construct simple sentences with some variety. The emphasis remains on foundational skills rather than sophisticated literary analysis.
Mathematics Assessment
Mathematics papers typically last 30-40 minutes and cover number work, basic arithmetic operations, simple word problems, shape recognition, measurement concepts, and data handling. Questions assess whether children have mastered the Year 2 curriculum and can apply mathematical thinking to unfamiliar problems.
Common topics include addition and subtraction within 100, understanding of multiplication and division concepts, recognition of fractions (halves, quarters, thirds), telling time to five-minute intervals, measuring length and mass, and interpreting simple graphs or charts. Schools value accurate calculation alongside problem-solving approaches and logical reasoning.
Reasoning Tests
Some schools incorporate verbal or non-verbal reasoning assessments, typically lasting 20-30 minutes. These tests evaluate logical thinking, pattern recognition, and problem-solving abilities rather than curriculum knowledge. Non-verbal reasoning might involve completing sequences, identifying odd-ones-out in shape patterns, or recognising rotations and reflections. Verbal reasoning could include word relationships, code-breaking exercises, or simple logical deductions.
Scoring and Pass Marks
Schools rarely publish specific grade boundaries for 7+ examinations, as they assess candidates holistically rather than using rigid cut-off scores. Most schools consider exam performance alongside school reports, teacher recommendations, and interview impressions. The number of available places significantly influences competitiveness, with oversubscribed schools naturally requiring higher performance standards.
Assessment Timeline
The 7+ assessment cycle begins in the autumn term of Year 2, with most examinations taking place between November and January. Families should register with schools during the preceding summer term or early autumn, carefully noting each school's specific registration deadline, as these vary considerably.
Assessment days typically occur on school premises, with most schools conducting their 7+ exams on weekday mornings or occasionally Saturdays. Some schools spread assessments across multiple sessions, particularly if they include observation activities or interviews alongside formal testing.
Results usually arrive 2-4 weeks following the assessment date, though timelines vary by institution. Schools may offer places immediately, add candidates to waiting lists, or provide feedback explaining why a child was unsuccessful. Families receiving multiple offers typically have 1-2 weeks to accept places and pay deposits, requiring swift decision-making.
Subject Breakdown
English Topics and Skills
Reading comprehension forms the cornerstone of 7+ English assessments. Children encounter fiction extracts, poems, or simple non-fiction texts before answering questions testing literal comprehension, basic inference, and vocabulary understanding. Schools assess whether pupils can locate specific information, understand pronoun references, predict what might happen next, and explain simple character feelings or motivations.
Spelling and grammar questions evaluate phonics knowledge, common exception words, and basic punctuation understanding. Children might be asked to complete sentences with appropriate words, identify correctly spelled versions, or demonstrate understanding of word classes (nouns, verbs, adjectives).
Writing tasks reveal creativity, linguistic confidence, and technical accuracy. Schools value imaginative ideas expressed through clear sentences, appropriate vocabulary choices, and consistent past or present tense usage. Neat handwriting, correct letter formation, and reasonable spelling attempts all contribute to positive impressions.
Mathematics Topics and Skills
Number work dominates 7+ mathematics papers, with emphasis on place value understanding, fluent mental arithmetic, and column addition/subtraction. Children should confidently work with numbers to 100, understand tens and units, and accurately perform calculations including those requiring carrying or exchanging.
Multiplication and division questions typically involve the 2, 5, and 10 times tables, simple sharing problems, and repeated addition scenarios. Fraction questions focus on recognising, naming, and finding simple fractions of shapes or quantities.
Measurement questions assess practical mathematical understanding: reading scales, comparing lengths or masses, solving problems involving money, and telling time on analogue and digital clocks. Shape questions evaluate recognition of common 2D and 3D shapes, identification of shape properties, and understanding of symmetry.
Word problems test whether children can translate written scenarios into mathematical operations, requiring careful reading alongside numerical ability. Schools value clear working-out, systematic approaches, and checking strategies.
Reasoning Skills
Verbal reasoning questions at 7+ level focus on relationships between words and simple logical sequences. Children might complete analogies (cat is to kitten as dog is to puppy), identify words that belong together, or solve simple letter-pattern codes. These questions assess vocabulary breadth and logical thinking.
Non-verbal reasoning evaluates spatial awareness and pattern recognition through visual puzzles. Tasks include completing shape sequences, identifying which shape is different from others, recognising rotated or reflected images, and solving simple shape analogies. Success requires careful observation, systematic checking, and pattern-spotting abilities.
Preparation Strategy
When to Begin Preparation
Families typically begin focused 7+ preparation 6-12 months before exam dates, though this varies according to the child's current attainment and target schools' competitiveness. Starting in the January of Year 1 or the summer before Year 2 provides adequate time without overwhelming young children. Earlier preparation risks burnout and may prove counterproductive if excessive pressure diminishes natural enthusiasm for learning.
Initial preparation should focus on consolidating school learning and building confidence rather than intensive exam practice. As assessment dates approach, typically from September of Year 2 onwards, families can incorporate more targeted practice whilst maintaining balance and avoiding stress.
Creating an Effective Study Schedule
Successful 7+ preparation involves short, regular practice sessions rather than lengthy study periods. Children aged 6-7 concentrate effectively for 15-20 minutes before needing breaks, making brief daily sessions more productive than occasional longer ones.
A balanced weekly schedule might include three 20-minute English sessions covering reading comprehension, creative writing, and spelling/grammar; three 20-minute mathematics sessions focusing on mental arithmetic, word problems, and different topic areas; and two sessions exploring reasoning questions if relevant to target schools.
Flexibility remains essential—if a child seems tired, distracted, or resistant, shorter sessions or days without formal practice prove more beneficial than forcing continued work. Maintaining positive associations with learning far outweighs completing every planned activity.
Key Skills Development
Reading regularly represents the single most valuable preparation activity. Daily shared reading builds comprehension skills, expands vocabulary, and develops inference abilities naturally. Discussing stories—predicting outcomes, explaining character motivations, identifying favourite moments—strengthens analytical thinking without formal pressure.
Mathematics preparation should emphasise mental arithmetic fluency, practical application, and problem-solving confidence. Regular practice with number bonds, times tables, and quick calculations builds speed and accuracy. Real-world mathematical discussions—shopping calculations, measuring for recipes, time management—demonstrate mathematics' practical value whilst developing application skills.
Writing practice should remain enjoyable and purposeful. Children might write stories about favourite topics, create fact files about interests, or maintain journals describing experiences. Technical improvement occurs naturally through regular writing combined with gentle guidance about punctuation, spelling strategies, and sentence structure.
Practise Materials and Their Use
Past papers, where available from target schools, provide invaluable insight into exam format and expectations. However, these should be introduced gradually, perhaps 6-8 weeks before assessments, to avoid premature exam pressure. Initial practice should occur untimed, with parents supporting as needed, before progressing to timed conditions closer to exam dates.
Published practice books offer structured progression through relevant topics. Quality materials include Schofield & Sims comprehension, grammar, and mathematics books; Bond 7+ assessment papers; and CGP practice books. These provide systematic coverage whilst offering appropriate challenge levels for this age group.
Online resources, including educational websites and apps, can supplement formal practice with engaging activities. However, these should complement rather than replace hands-on problem-solving, physical writing practice, and book-based reading.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Starting Intensive Preparation Too Early
Beginning rigorous exam practice when children are five or at the start of Year 1 often proves counterproductive. Young children develop at varying rates, and excessive early pressure may damage confidence and reduce natural curiosity. Instead, focus on building strong foundational skills through engaging with books, exploring mathematical concepts practically, and encouraging questioning and creativity. Formal exam preparation becomes appropriate once children demonstrate readiness and assessments approach meaningfully.
Overlooking Comprehension in Favour of Mechanical Skills
Some preparation focuses heavily on spelling lists, times tables, and grammar exercises whilst neglecting deeper understanding. Whilst these mechanical skills matter, schools equally value genuine comprehension, problem-solving approaches, and creative thinking. Children should understand why multiplication helps solve particular problems, not merely recite tables. Reading comprehension develops through discussion and engagement, not just answering printed questions. Balanced preparation addresses both technical proficiency and conceptual understanding.
Creating Unhelpful Pressure Around Practise Sessions
When preparation becomes stressful rather than supportive, children may develop anxiety around learning or assessments. Comparing children to siblings or peers, expressing disappointment about mistakes, or suggesting acceptance depends entirely on exam performance all create unhelpful pressure. Instead, frame preparation as skill-building for their benefit, celebrate effort and improvement alongside achievement, and maintain perspective about educational journeys extending far beyond single assessments.
Neglecting School Learning in Favour of Exam Preparation
Some families become so focused on entrance exam preparation that they undervalue the child's current school experience. However, schools provide essential references, and children's engagement and happiness in their present environment significantly influences wellbeing. Homework should remain a priority, school activities valued, and friendships supported. Entrance exam preparation must enhance rather than overshadow the child's daily educational experience.
Insufficient Familiarisation with Exam Conditions
Children sitting formal assessments for the first time may find the experience overwhelming regardless of their actual ability. Practising under realistic conditions—working independently, managing time, reading instructions carefully—helps children feel confident and capable on assessment days. Gradually introducing timed practice, explaining what exam days involve, and perhaps visiting the school beforehand all reduce anxiety and allow children's genuine abilities to shine through.
Resources and Practise Materials
Past Papers and School-Specific Materials
Direct contact with target schools may yield specimen papers or assessment information, though many schools maintain confidentiality around their specific 7+ materials. Where schools provide sample papers or guidance documents, these become invaluable for understanding exact requirements and question styles. Some schools host familiarisation sessions or provide preparation guides for registered candidates.
Published Practise Books
Bond 7+ assessment papers offer comprehensive coverage of English, mathematics, and reasoning in formats mirroring common exam styles. These books provide progressive difficulty levels and answers for checking, making them valuable for structured home practice.
Schofield & Sims produces excellent comprehension, grammar, and mathematics workbooks appropriate for Year 2 level. These build skills systematically through varied, engaging exercises that develop both accuracy and understanding.
CGP publishes 7+ preparation books covering all assessment areas with clear explanations and practice questions. Their materials balance thorough coverage with accessibility for young learners.
Galore Park 7+ practice papers simulate assessment conditions across multiple subjects, helping children develop examination technique whilst consolidating knowledge.
Online Resources
Education Quizzes offers topic-based quizzes covering English and mathematics at appropriate levels, providing interactive practice that many children find engaging. The immediate feedback helps identify areas requiring additional support.
Topmarks provides free educational games covering mathematics topics including number bonds, times tables, and problem-solving. These offer purposeful practice within game formats that maintain motivation.
BBC Bitesize includes resources for Key Stage 1 English and mathematics, with explanations, activities, and quizzes supporting curriculum understanding that underpins entrance exam success.
Reading Materials
Regular engagement with high-quality children's literature builds vocabulary, comprehension, and inference skills more effectively than comprehension exercises alone. Fiction series such as Roald Dahl's books, Michael Morpurgo's stories, or Jacqueline Wilson's novels offer engaging narratives encouraging discussion and analysis. Non-fiction books about topics matching children's interests develop information-retrieval skills and broaden knowledge.
Poetry collections introduce varied vocabulary, literary techniques, and opportunities for discussion about language choices and effects. Performance poetry or narrative poems particularly appeal to this age group whilst developing analytical reading skills.
How Taylor Tuition Can Help
Taylor Tuition offers specialised 7+ entrance exam preparation through expert tutors who understand both the academic requirements and the emotional needs of young learners. Our tutors create supportive, engaging sessions that build confidence alongside competence, ensuring children approach assessments feeling capable and prepared rather than anxious.
Structured Preparation Programmes
We design individualised preparation programmes following thorough assessment of each child's current attainment, target schools' requirements, and family timelines. Our structured approach ensures comprehensive coverage of all relevant topics whilst maintaining appropriate pacing that avoids overwhelming young learners. Sessions balance focused skill development with varied, engaging activities that sustain motivation throughout preparation periods.
Expert, Nurturing Tutors
Our 7+ tutors combine subject expertise with particular understanding of early years education and child development. They recognise that successful preparation requires more than academic instruction—children need encouragement, patience, and teaching approaches matched to their individual learning styles. Our tutors build genuine relationships with pupils, creating comfortable environments where children feel confident asking questions and attempting challenging work.
Comprehensive Skill Development
We address all elements of 7+ success: developing strong foundational literacy and numeracy, building exam technique and time management, fostering problem-solving approaches, and cultivating confidence. Our holistic approach ensures children understand concepts deeply rather than merely memorising procedures, creating lasting benefits extending beyond entrance assessments.
Family Support and Guidance
We support families throughout the entire process, providing advice about school selection, application timelines, and maintaining balance during preparation periods. Our experience with numerous families and schools enables us to offer realistic guidance whilst remaining responsive to each family's unique circumstances and priorities.
If you would like to discuss how Taylor Tuition can support your child's 7+ entrance exam preparation, please visit our enquiry page to arrange an initial consultation. We look forward to helping your child approach their assessments with confidence and capability.