These are increasingly becoming a more popular choice for parents as they realise the biggest advantage is that if a child gains a place at 3+ or 4+, they will automatically be ensured a place at that school through to A levels. This saves them the need to sit further entrance assessments at a later stage. 

If children don’t do well in these, they can take the 5+ the next year. However, several schools are withdrawing this option, so it is even more important for children to do well in the 4+. 

All children sitting the 4+ need to develop an understanding of all phonic sounds, how to hold their pencil, colours and colouring. Drawing has to be realistic and they will require a good general knowledge. The size relation of letters needs to be practised and be precise as does an extended vocabulary. Numeracy is another important area. We teach through story books and conversation.  We build on skills achieved and work on confidence and the child being articulate. 

The tests are usually more difficult than people anticipate, and parents are often surprised at how much their children are meant to know at such an early age. The tests sometimes involve conversation and listening skills, drawing and colouring, behaviour observation and simple English and Maths. We find that children who are articulate and know their phonics sounds do well. 

We follow the curriculum in primary subjects and children are prepared using our extensive resources developed in house. 

An assessment and a consultation with us can ensure success in this exam with a bespoke study programme.