At The Happy Scholar, we have a small team of top tier tutors who specialise in preparing students for 11 Plus entrance to Westminster (Under), St Paul’s, KCS and City of London. We understand that these schools are seeking not only academically outstanding students but also those who are intellectually curious, self-motivated, and well-rounded.

Westminster School: Overview

Westminster School, situated in the historic heart of London near Westminster Abbey, is one of the UK’s most prestigious and influential independent schools. Established in 1560, Westminster is renowned for its academic excellence, preparing students for entry into elite universities like Oxford and Cambridge. The school offers an unparalleled education that nurtures both intellectual rigor and personal growth, providing students with numerous opportunities to thrive in a supportive and stimulating environment.

In 2024, Westminster School continued to set high standards, with 85% of its A-Level students achieving A* or A grades and over 90% of GCSE students earning grades 8 or 9, reinforcing its status as one of the top-performing schools in the country.

2024 Results:

• A-Level Results: 85% of students secured A* or A grades, reflecting exceptional academic performance and readiness for top-tier university courses.
• GCSE Results: More than 90% of students achieved grades 8 or 9, showcasing the school’s commitment to developing well-prepared, high-achieving students.

11 Plus Entry to Westminster School: Essential Details

Westminster School is highly selective, and its admissions process is designed to identify the most academically promising and well-rounded candidates. The main entry point is at 11+ into Westminster Under, 13+ and 16+. Pupils who join the Under School as part of the 11+ process in Year 7 go through the same transfer process as current Under School pupils in Year 6, at the same time, so their entry to Westminster School is automatic.

Admissions Overview:

• Primary Entry Point: 11+, with additional entry at 13+ and 16+.
• Entrance Exams and Interviews: Admission to the Senior School at 11+ is based on entrance exams and interviews that assess candidates’ academic potential, critical thinking, and overall character.
• Occasional Vacancies: While most entry is at 11+, occasional vacancies may open in other year groups, but these are usually announced with short notice.

Online Assessments:

In November of Year 6, all children who have applied for 11+ entry by the October deadline are invited to sit an entrance assessment at the School. Due to the increasing number of children applying for 11+ entry, Westminster now uses an electronic assessment set by the ISEB (Independent Schools Examination Board) called the Common Pre-tests, which are utilized by many senior schools.

Key Information on Online Assessments:

• Assessment Components: The online assessments include papers in Mathematics, English, Verbal Reasoning, and Non-verbal Reasoning.
• One-Time Sitting: Candidates may only take the assessments once for all schools applied for and cannot re-sit them.

Written Papers:

Once the School has the results of the ISEB Common Pre-Tests, approximately 100 children are selected for the next stage in the admissions process. These candidates are invited back to the School in January to take additional written papers in Mathematics and English. These papers are only administered at Westminster Under School and are designed to be an informal and friendly occasion, aiming to better understand the candidates’ abilities and potential.

Key Details on Written Papers:

• Mathematics Paper: Candidates should have completed the standard Key Stage 2 curriculum or its equivalent and be capable of achieving Level 5 in Key Stage 2 SATs. The exam focuses on problem-solving and applying mathematical knowledge effectively.
• English Paper: The English assessment may include comprehension questions, descriptive writing, short reviews, or continuing a passage in the voice of the author. Candidates are expected to demonstrate wide-ranging reading habits, a strong vocabulary, and the ability to write fluently and accurately.

Interviews:

Based on the results of the written papers, approximately 60 children are invited for an interview with a senior member of staff in February. This interview is designed to encourage candidates to talk about themselves and share their genuine interests and enthusiasms. This informal conversation allows the school to assess not just academic ability but also curiosity and character.

Offer of a Place:

Shortly after the interview day, the School will contact candidates to let them know whether they have been offered a place. The deadline for offer acceptance is usually in early March.

Preparing for Westminster School 11 Plus Entrance Exams:

Effective preparation for the Westminster 11+ requires a strategic approach and consistent effort. Here are some expert tips to help your child succeed:

1. Develop Strong Reasoning and Problem-Solving Skills:

Effective Preparation for the Westminster 11+

Preparing for the Westminster 11+ requires a strategic and consistent approach. Below are expert tips for supporting your child’s success:

1. Develop Strong Reasoning and Problem-Solving Skills

To develop strong reasoning and problem-solving skills, it is essential to practise logical reasoning through specialised books and online resources focused on verbal and non-verbal reasoning. This practise not only improves problem-solving abilities but also fosters a logical approach to questions. Simulating real exam conditions with timed practise tests will help build confidence, speed, and accuracy during the actual exam.

2. Enhance English and Comprehension Skills

Encouraging your child to read a wide variety of high-quality literature can greatly enhance comprehension and critical analysis skills. Discussing the content, themes, and language used in the material helps deepen their understanding and interpretation. Practising creative writing tasks that align with the exam format is also crucial. Focusing on clear structure, varied sentence forms, and the effective use of language and literary devices will support the development of writing fluency and vocabulary needed to excel in the English paper.

3. Master Mathematics Fundamentals and Beyond

It is important to ensure that your child is proficient in Key Stage 2 math topics and has exposure to more advanced mathematical concepts. Engaging in practise exercises that test logical and analytical thinking will provide the foundation needed for the maths section of the exam. Emphasising the importance of showing working steps in math papers is also vital, as this practise ensures full credit is awarded and helps identify any mistakes.

4. Prepare for the Interview

Preparing for the interview stage involves conducting mock interviews to help your child become comfortable discussing topics and answering questions thoughtfully. Encouraging them to articulate their ideas clearly and confidently is essential. It is equally important to foster curiosity by creating an environment where asking questions and exploring different perspectives is encouraged, as these traits are highly valued during the interview process.

5. Additional Preparation Strategies

Creating a comprehensive study plan that balances English, Mathematics, and reasoning preparation is a key strategy. Dedicate more time to areas where your child needs the most support to maximise their potential. Consistent and steady practise over weeks and months will help avoid last-minute cramming and ensure thorough preparation. Reviewing completed work can help identify areas for improvement. Enriching your child’s education with activities such as debates, book clubs, or creative writing workshops can boost analytical and communication skills, contributing to success in both written papers and interviews.

6. Balancing Study and Preparation

To balance study and preparation, create a structured schedule that allocates time evenly across all exam components. Dedicate specific times for English, Mathematics, and reasoning practise, with extra attention given to areas where your child feels less confident. Regular practise should be incorporated into the daily routine to build long-term retention and reduce exam-day anxiety. Consistency is essential to feeling well-prepared and confident when the exam day arrives.

Hire a Specialist Westminster Tutor:

If additional support is needed, consider hiring a tutor who specializes in Westminster School exam preparation. A specialist tutor with expertise in Westminster’s unique requirements can guide your child through tailored preparation, boosting confidence and performance.

For more information about Westminster School, visit – www.westminster.org.uk.

For expert advice on the Westminster School 11+ entrance exam and preparation strategies, contact us to inquire about a specialist Westminster tutor.