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What Is The 13+ Exam?

In the UK, the 13+ exams refer to the entrance exams typically taken by students at the age of 13 as part of the secondary school admissions process. These exams are used by independent (public) schools to try to assess a student's academic ability and potential for entry into the school's education program to see whether they are capable. The content and structure of 13+ generally cover subjects such as English, mathematics, and sometimes science.

13+ lessons in the UK can help you to prepare for the examination and hopefully improve your score. This may not impact entry, but it may well impact what sets you are put into and the opportunities that arise once you enter the school.

Here are some key points related to 13+ exams in the UK.

The primary purpose of the 13+ exams is to assess a student's academic aptitude and suitability for entry into a specific independent school's secondary education program.

The exams typically cover core subjects, including English (comprehension, writing), mathematics, and sometimes science. Some schools may also include additional subjects or sections, such as verbal reasoning or non-verbal reasoning.

What Is The Format Of The 13 Plus Exam?

The format of 13+ exams varies among schools. They may include written papers, interviews, and in some cases, assessments of creative or practical skills.

Some independent schools refer to these as a set of standardised exams known as Common Entrance Exams (CEEs) for 13+ entry. These exams are created by the Independent Schools Examinations Board (ISEB) and are widely used by independent schools across the UK.

Typically, the students take two exams in English, and three in maths: Calculator, Non- Calculator and Mental Arithmetic. There are also different approaches to science depending on level, but most take Chemistry, Biology, and Physics exams separately.

How to Prepare For 13+ With a Tutor

Preparing for the 13+ exams with a tutor can be a beneficial and personalised approach to ensure that the student is well-equipped for the assessments. Here on Superprof, you can connect with a variety of different tutors who have experience with guiding students through these exams and helping them to achieve a high grade.

Here are some steps and tips on how to prepare for the 13+ exams with a tutor:

• Find the right tutor: Select a tutor with experience in preparing students for 13+ exams. Look for tutors who are familiar with the curriculum, exam formats, and expectations of the schools you are targeting.
• Begin with an initial assessment: This will allow you to identify strengths and weaknesses and set realistic goals based on the requirements of the exams and current academic level
• Understand the specific requirements of the 13+ exams: Different schools may have different formats and subjects included in their exams
• Work with the tutor to create a customised study plan: This should address the specific needs of the student. The plan should cover all the subjects and skills tested in the 13+ exams that you will be taking.
• Focus on each subject tested in the exams: This should include English, mathematics, and any additional subjects. The tutor can provide targeted lessons, practice exercises, and resources to strengthen the student's understanding of key concepts. Previous papers may also be available to help you to build confidence.
• Dedicate time to practise your skills: If the exams include verbal reasoning or non-verbal reasoning sections, tutors can provide strategies and exercises to enhance performance in these areas, but not all schools use this as part of their entrance exams.
• Get regular feedback from the tutor on the student's progress: Adjust the study plan as needed based on the student's performance in practice tests and areas that require additional focus.
• Prepare for Interviews: It is also possible that the tutor may be able to help with the interview side of things. If interviews are part of the admissions process, the tutor can assist with interview preparation. This may include practising common interview questions, developing effective communication skills, and discussing potential topics.

In conclusion, a tutor can be a great way to make sure that you are as prepared as you possibly can be when it is time for your exams. Though this is not an exam that you can ‘fail’ per se, it is important to try and get a high grade, and Superprof’s tutors can help you to get ready with 13+ lessons and tuition.