11+ & 13+ Entrance Exam Preparation for Super‑Selective Schools
Thoughtful, academically rigorous support for able and high‑potential students
Our Approach
Preparing for 11+ and 13+ entrance exams at super‑selective schools is rarely straightforward.
For many families, the challenge is not a lack of ability, but navigating high expectations, unfamiliar assessment formats and intense competition, often alongside a child who is sensitive, perfectionist or quietly anxious.
Beatrix Woodhead & Associates offers bespoke, one‑to‑one preparation for 11+ and 13+ entrance exams, designed for families seeking a calm, intellectually serious approach that supports both performance and wellbeing.
Understanding super‑selective entrance exams
Entrance assessments for highly selective schools are designed to distinguish between already strong candidates.
They typically test:
Advanced reasoning and problem‑solving ability
Speed and accuracy under pressure
Numerical and quantitative reasoning
Sophisticated reading comprehension and inference
The ability to think independently
11+ and 13+ stretch lessons are particularly well suited for students who:
Are academically able or have high learning potential
Are aiming for super‑selective independent or state schools
May be sensitive, perfectionist or nervous about exams and interviews
Are finding the pressure of preparation demanding
Require a thoughtful, individualised approach
Support is equally appropriate for students who are twice exceptional and have several learning needs, where exam preparation needs to be handled with particular care.
All 11+ & 13+ exam programmes are bespoke and can involve:
Verbal and non‑verbal reasoning
Mathematics and problem‑solving
Advanced reading comprehension
Writing for clarity, structure and sophistication
Interview preparation and academic discussion (where relevant)
Guidance on workload, pacing and revision habits
At 13+, preparation may also include subject‑specific academic work aligned with school expectations.
Looking for a Private 11+ & 13+ tutor in London?
How to prepare for selective schools entrance exams
Intellectual depth before speed
Strong foundations in reasoning, language and number are established first. Speed is developed later, once understanding is secure.
Explicit exam technique
Children are taught how to interpret questions, manage time and respond strategically. Sessions include guidance on what the mark schemes are looking for, and what this means in practice for answers.
Calm, structured sessions
Sessions are focused, purposeful and supportive. This helps students who are prone to anxiety, perfectionism or mental fatigue perform more consistently.
Individual pacing
Some students need stretching; others need reassurance and structure. Preparation is adjusted accordingly, and the itinerary is entirely personalised.
Thoughtful, supportive and purposefully designed 11+ & 13+ entrance exam tuition.
A long term view of sucess
Entrance exams are important; but the senior school programme they lead on to requires preparation too.
Our work focuses on helping students:
Think more confidently and independently
Approach challenge without panic
Understand their own strengths and learning habits
Develop skills that extend well beyond the exam itself
Many families value this broader perspective, particularly when navigating high‑stakes decisions.
If you are considering 11+ or 13+ applications to selective schools and are looking for thoughtful, one‑to‑one support, Beatrix would be pleased to discuss whether her approach is suitable for your child.