At The Happy Scholar, we have expert tutors who specialise in preparing students for the 11 Plus entrance exam to St. Dunstan’s College, whether for standard entry or scholarship places. St Dunstan’s has become an increasingly popular choice for SW London families wanting a co-educational environment, without the high-level academic pressures of Alleyn’s and Emanuel it is a great option. Hiring a skilled St. Dunstan’s College tutor who understands the nuances of their 11 Plus exam format and interview be very beneficial.

In 2023, St Dunstan’s College celebrated its best-ever A Level results, with 86% of students achieving grades between A* and B, including 56% earning A*–A grades and 22% attaining A* grades. Leaver’s destinations include top universities and Russell Group institutions for medicine, arts, and conservatories

This guide will help parents navigate the 11 Plus entrance process. 

Understanding the St. Dunstan’s College 11 Plus Entrance Exam

The St. Dunstan’s College 11 Plus entrance exam is designed to assess your child’s academic potential and ensure they are prepared for the school’s rigorous curriculum. The exam evaluates a range of skills across three main areas: English, Maths, and Verbal Reasoning.

What Does the St. Dunstan’s College 11 Plus Exam Include?

English Exam
The English exam at St. Dunstan’s College includes both comprehension and creative writing sections. In the comprehension section, students read a passage and answer questions that test their understanding and analytical skills. The questions may include both short and long responses, allowing examiners to assess critical thinking and reading comprehension.

The creative writing component challenges students to expand on a given prompt, testing their imagination, storytelling abilities, and grammar. To prepare, encourage your child to read widely and practice writing on a variety of topics.

Maths Exam
The one-hour Maths exam starts with fundamental calculations and progresses to more complex problem-solving questions. This section tests arithmetic skills, logical reasoning, and the ability to solve multi-step word problems. The exam is non-calculator, so consistent practice in mental arithmetic and written calculations is essential.

Verbal Reasoning Exam
The 45-minute Verbal Reasoning section assesses your child’s command of language and logical thinking. It includes questions designed to challenge comprehension and problem-solving skills. To prepare, practice with sample questions and encourage activities that develop verbal reasoning, such as puzzles and reading comprehension exercises.

Preparing for the St. Dunstan’s College 11 Plus Entrance Exam

Preparation is key to helping your child feel confident and ready. Here are some key tips for parents:

Enhance English and Writing Skills

• Encourage Reading: Have your child read a variety of materials, including age-appropriate novels, articles, and classics, to improve comprehension and expand their vocabulary.
• Practice Creative Writing: Use prompts to help your child practice storytelling and organising their ideas cohesively.
• Review Grammar and Punctuation: Regularly revisit grammar rules and encourage written exercises to refine their writing quality.

Build Maths Confidence

• Review Core Concepts: Ensure your child is comfortable with fundamental math skills and practices them regularly.
• Practice with Worksheets: Simulate exam conditions using practice questions and timed mock exams to help them become familiar with the format.
• Emphasise Mental Math: Encourage practice in mental arithmetic to prepare for the non-calculator section.

Strengthen Verbal Reasoning Skills

• Use Practice Papers: Encourage your child to work through past papers and online practice resources to become familiar with typical verbal reasoning questions.
• Timed Practice: Organise timed practice sessions to improve time management during the exam.
• Promote Problem-Solving: Engage your child in games and activities that foster logical deduction and pattern recognition.

St. Dunstan’s College 11 Plus Interview and Experience Day

If your child successfully passes the entrance exam, they will be invited to an interview and experience day. This stage helps the school assess your child’s social and collaborative abilities through group tasks and discussions. For those applying for scholarships, there may be an additional interview with academic staff. Offers are typically sent out after the interview process.

Tips for Parents: Supporting Your Child’s 11 Plus Preparation

To help your child succeed in their exams, starting preparation early is essential. This approach provides ample time to build a strong foundation, making it easier to handle complex topics and reducing last-minute stress. Creating a balanced study plan is also crucial; it ensures that all exam subjects are covered evenly, fostering consistent progress and boosting confidence.

Simulating exam conditions by practising with past papers and timed mock tests is another effective strategy. This helps familiarise students with the test format and sharpens their time management skills, making them more resilient on the exam day. Lastly, it’s important to encourage regular breaks and downtime. Integrating moments of rest and activities your child enjoys can help prevent burnout and maintain motivation throughout the preparation period.

For more information visit their website: www.stdunstans.org.uk

Contact us today to learn more about 11 Plus preparation for St. Dunstan’s College.