Private Tutor for 11+ and Mathematics
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
What are the benefits of personal tuition?
What is the 11 Plus?
The 11+ is an examination used in areas that have retained state-funded grammar schools or for those seeking entrance to some selective private schools. It is taken towards the end of Year 5 or beginning of Year 6 of primary school and is used to identify the most academically-able children.
The content of the 11+ exam varies between different areas of the country but generally it will focus on a combination of the following four subjects:
- Maths
- English
- Verbal reasoning
- Non-verbal reasoning/spatial awareness
Although the English and maths tests tend to follow the National Curriculum, the verbal and non-verbal reasoning/spatial awareness tests are not school-based subjects and will not be taught as part of the curriculum in state schools. Therefore your child is likely to need additional support and practice to familiarise themselves with verbal and non-verbal reasoning/spatial awareness exam question types.
There are two different formats for 11+ exam papers:
Standard format – where children write their answers on the test paper
Multiple-choice format – where answers are marked in a separate answer booklet
11+ exam papers are timed and usually last between 45-60 minutes.
Children should practise with timed 11+ mock test papers, as well as working through non-timed practice, so they can see what they are able to do within a given time frame.
There are two main exam boards for the 11+ exam:
GL Assessment – previously known as NFER, GL Assessment develops and administers 11+ exams in the majority of grammar schools in the UK.
CEM – developed by the Centre for Evaluation & Monitoring at Durham University, the CEM 11+ exam was created in response to fears from some grammar schools that the existing 11+ exam system had become too predictable.
The CEM exam was designed to address concerns over question spotting and ‘teaching to the test’.
Find out more about the differences between GL and CEM exams and which Local
Authorities use which exam board in the CEM 11+ section below.
There are always more pupils applying for grammar schools than there are places available, (sometimes as many as 10 pupils for every one place) and so competition can be fierce.
It is therefore vital to find out how the 11+ exam is structured where you live and to prepare your child adequately.
What are SATs?
Standard Assessment Task (SAT) exams test the student’s performance in English, Maths & Science and the results are measured against the national standard.
They are taken at the end of Year 2 (Key Stage 1), Year 6 (Key Stage 2), and Year 9 (Key Stage 3).
The results at Key Stage 1 can be an early indication of potential problems, while Key Stage 2 results may be used for setting in the senior school at Year 7, and at Key Stage 3 results for setting in GCSE classes at Year 10.
What is Singapore Maths?
Singapore maths is a teaching method based on the national mathematics curriculum used for kindergarten through sixth grade in Singapore.
The term was coined in the United States to describe an approach originally developed in Singapore to teach students to learn and master fewer mathematical concepts at greater detail as well as having them learn these concepts using a three-step learning process: concrete, pictorial, and abstract.
What is Active Learning?
Active learning is a process that has student learning at its centre. Active learning focuses on how students learn, not just on what they learn. Students are encouraged to ‘think hard’, rather than passively receive information from the teacher.
Research shows us that it is not possible to transmit understanding to students by simply telling them what they need to know. Instead, teachers need to make sure that they challenge their students’ thinking.
In an active learning approach, learning is not only about the content, but is also about the process. Active learning develops students’ autonomy and their ability to learn. Active learning gives students greater involvement and control over their learning. This means that students are better able to continue learning once they have left school and college.
What are your term times?
Autumn Term 2020 *PLEASE CALL TO GET LATEST INFORMATION*
All years: From Tuesday 2nd September 2020 to Saturday 19th December 2020*
Half term: Saturday 17th October 2020 to Sunday 1st November 2020
* Closed on Friday 18th September 2020
Spring Term 2021
All years: From Monday 11th January 2021 to Saturday 3rd April 2021
Half term: Monday 15th February 2021 to Friday 19th February 2021
Summer Term 2021 *Dates to be confirmed pending COVID-19 assessment*
All years except 5: From Monday 19th April 2021 to Saturday 24th July 2021
Year 5 students: Monday 19th April to early in September, just prior to the South West Hertfordshire 11+ exam
*students preparing for 11+ and private school exams are expected to continue tuition during half term breaks
What ages do you teach?
We have students aged 7 – 16 years. Within this range, the full spectrum of capability is covered.
What abilities do you cater for?
ASKE Tuition isn’t just for students who aren’t performing well in their studies; we also work with high achievers. Whatever level your child is at, our individualised approach to learning needs will bring out true potential.
What happens if my child is sick and can't make it?
Let us know as soon as possible. We’ll cancel your child’s tutoring session for that day and you may ask us to schedule a make-up session during the term.
How long do we need to come for?
The length of time each student attends ASKE Tuition depends on the goals they set for themselves and the level of achievement they want to attain. Some stay for a couple of terms, and others choose to stay longer, setting new goals and striving for further challenges.
Is there homework?
Yes there’s homework, although it’s not time consuming. Homework sheets match the topic your child is working on and help new facts and skills to move from short-term memory to long-term memory. For best results, we recommend you encourage your child to complete homework sheets within 48 hours of receiving it.
How do I go about getting a consultation at ASKE Tuition?
Please fill in this form and a ASKE Tuition representative will be back to you shortly.
https://www.asketuition.com/contact
When’s the best time to begin extra tuition?
Year 4 is a great time to start so that children can do little and often to build up their skills over time. Don’t put too much pressure on them though.
From experience, seeing parents getting children to do test papers every week from Year 4, plus tuition, and extra reading leads to burnout. Spreading it out over time is ideal.
The ideal term to start in year 4 varies from child to child. It can be anywhere from the beginning of year 4 to no later than the beginning of the summer term in year 4.
What is your location?
Our courses are delivered at:
There is parking space for drop-offs/collections, convenient transport links and the location of the teaching venue is close to Pinner, Eastcote and Northwood Hills.
The facilities are beautiful and modern, with state-of-the-art, well-equipped classrooms.