11+ Summer revision course

(for years 5-6)

Course dates: (5 days)

Option 1: 29th July – 2nd August 2024
Option 2: 5th – 9th August 2024 

Now taking bookings

Course subjects

Maths, English, Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning

Preparing your child for the 11-plus exam

The 11-plus exam is difficult enough which is why this is not the time to cut corners. Your child will get one chance at the 11-plus and we want to help them succeed.

What to expect from our 11-plus revision course

Before the course – meeting your child’s needs

When you complete the booking form, we will ask you to tell us about your child. The 11-plus exams they will be taking, their strengths and weaknesses and also if they have any mobility, health or educational needs.

Your child will be asked to complete a pre-course assessment in English comprehension, maths, verbal and non-verbal reasoning to help us group and support our students appropriately.

Our new on-line pre-course assessments provide you with instant feedback, which will give you a realistic idea of your child’s current level of achievement and will help you focus support, tuition and practice at home more meaningfully in the run up to the course.

During the course – revision, exam technique and mock exam

We will cover the major topics for each subject and provide guidance and tips on examination technique. We endeavour, as far as possible, to teach flexibly, responding to the needs and existing skill-sets of the children in each group.  There will, therefore, sometimes be variation in the breadth and depth of cover and practice between groups.

The tutor will teach at the front of the class initially but sessions will be as interactive as possible allowing time for children to fill gaps in their learning and to consolidate or extend their existing skills.

A range of teaching approaches and activities are used by our experienced teachers. Time is built in for individual, paired and group activities to make the learning and revision as engaging and meaningful as possible.

Your child will answer exam questions to improve their exam technique. Tutors describe the different types of exam questions and explain how best to answer them to gain full marks. Whilst students are working independently tutors will give individual support.

During the last two days of the course there will be a formal mock exam in English comprehension, maths, verbal and non-verbal reasoning. These will be taken under exam conditions. After the exam tutors will discuss some of the questions so that the children can learn from their mistakes.

After the course – feedback

Mock exam papers are marked and either posted or emailed to you with a written report within one week. If the tutor suggests that your child needs to do extra work in a particular area we will offer as much help as possible. If you feel a one-to-one session would help to complete your child’s preparation for the exam we will be happy to arrange this.

Course topics

English:

Comprehension techniques:

• Reading for meaning in timed conditions
• Interpreting questions
• Long and short written answers
• How to support answers using short quotations
• Multiple Choice Skills
• Addressing the mark scheme

Grammar and Writing:

• Writing and presentation – first impressions
• Common spelling errors
• Common grammatical errors
• Vocabulary development
• Identifying figurative language

Our main focus on this course is Comprehension skills and vocabulary development. The course includes some instruction and practice relating to the grammar and writing skills above.  Our separate Creative Writing Course may be of interest to those taking 11+ examinations that also include an extended writing task. For example:  St Olave’s,  St Dunstan’s, Blackheath High, Sydenham High and the Kent 11plus test.

Maths:

Our Maths revision curriculum includes:

• Number, Place Value and Calculation (including factors, multiples, squares and primes, negative numbers, addition, subtraction, multiplication and division)
• Fractions, Decimals, Percentages, Ratio and Proportion
• Data Handling and Statistics (including frequency tables, graphs, pie charts, mean, mode, median and range)
• Shape and Space (including 2D and 3D shapes and properties; Area and Perimeter, Reflection, Rotation and Translations);
• Measure (including time problems, length, mass, capacity and volume)
• Algebra
• Geometry

Each session includes a revision of basic knowledge and skills for specific topics followed by related problem solving and word problem practice. We endeavour, as far as possible, to teach flexibly, responding to the needs and existing skill-sets of the children in each group.  There will, therefore, sometimes be variation in the breadth and depth of cover and practice between groups.

Verbal reasoning:

Our Verbal sessions cover a mixture of word, number and logic questions, for example:

• Word, letter and number sequences and patterns
• Vocabulary based problems: synonyms, antonyms, compound words
• Code breaking
• Worded logic problems
• Analogies and relationships
• Anagrams
• Ordering sentences/identifying superfluous words
• Cloze sequence
• Substitution
• Odd one out
• Missing words
• Missing letters

Non-verbal reasoning:

Our Non-Verbal sessions cover a mixture of non-language-based logic questions using patterns, shapes, pictures and symbols, for example:

• Similar shapes
• Odd one out
• Sequences
• Completing a Matrix
• Tessellation
• Nets and cubes
• 3D visualisation
• Amalgamation of shapes
• Reflection
• Rotation
• Missing pieces
• Analogies
• Hole punching

Group size

Teaching groups will be kept small, with approximately twelve children. This allows time for each child to receive individual support when needed. In addition to the course tutor there may be a second tutor to provide additional support during maths or other sessions if deemed necessary.

Course tutors

All our tutors have been carefully selected, vetted and have extensive 11-plus experience. They have excellent references and were also chosen for their caring nature, friendly personalities and enthusiastic teaching style to help encourage and motivate each student.

Course sessions

The total study time is 23 hours and 45 minutes.  Each course runs over five days and is arranged as follows:

Course venue

Ripley Arts Centre, Bromley Arts Council, 24 Sundridge Avenue, Bromley.  BR1 2PX.  For full details click venue .

Break periods and lunch

Fresh fruit, soft drinks and biscuits will be provided free of charge during break periods. Children must bring a packed lunch.

Course fees

The 5-day 11-plus revision course = £580

Payment method

• We accept payment by bank transfer, credit card, debit card and Paypal™.  We do not accept payment by cheque.  Please contact us if you have any questions about payment
• Deposits are only accepted if you pay by bank transfer. If you are paying by credit card, debit card or Paypal™, payments must be made in full at the time of booking

Payment policy

• A deposit of £280 must be paid to hold a place if you are not paying in full at the time of booking
• Unless a course becomes unavailable, deposits are non-refundable
• The balance of a course must be paid 6 weeks before the start of the course
• On request, fees can be paid in instalments

Now taking  bookings

Please phone or Contact us to check availability before completing the Booking form.

What some parents have to say…

Mrs Dixon, 11-plus summer revision course. 2021

Our daughter had done a lot of study and practice by the time she came on your course but nonetheless I’d say the course was the turning point for her. As you rightly predicted, it really boosted her confidence but also her focus. She discovered she was in the same boat as the other kids – and as she liked and admired them, it really spurred her on with the last phase of her revision. It made her want to go to a school that had tutors like your tutors and children like the ones she met on the course. The tutors were fabulous, by all accounts. Clear and encouraging, they helped her feel she understood the content and would be able to answer questions in the exam. She also really appreciated the feeling that you were looking out for her while she was there, and felt very safe. The course was great fun too, from what she told me each day! She really wanted to keep coming. To win a prize on the final day was the icing on the cake. She couldn’t stop talking about it afterwards.

Update: I’m pleased to say my daughter passed the Kent test and got a place at her first choice of school – Tunbridge Wells Girls Grammar School!! We are all very proud of her! She’s beyond delighted. All her hard work – and it really was a long slog – finally paid off in a big way. Thank you for your very significant help in getting us here. Your course made a big difference last summer. We were running out of steam and it was all starting to be painfully boring. The course helped make it fun and she was suddenly with nice kids who were doing the same thing as her! Thank you. Mrs Dixon.

Shenika Peart, 11-plus summer revision course. 2021

My daughter Kaci took part in the 11+ revision course and creative writing course  in the summer of 2021. She lacked confidence before joining, and we weren’t sure if she was going to pass her exams. We decided that we would still go ahead with the courses, and she thoroughly enjoyed them. During the courses, she developed confidence and discussed nightly how happy she was with her daily experiences of making friends, playing games and learning. She went on to pass both her Kent and Medway test.  We are thankful to all of the teachers and Maria for her helping her on her journey.

Mrs Bludova, 11-plus summer revision course. 2021

I’d like to thank you for a great 11+ revision course that Mila attended in the summer. Mila enjoyed it very much and found all the teachers engaging and lessons not only useful but also interesting. It really helped her to consolidate a lot of her knowledge and the mock exam in particular was very helpful in identifying specific areas for her to focus on in those last few weeks in the run up to her exams. I am pleased to say that Mila has passed all three exams that she sat for Newstead Wood, Bexley and Kent with very good marks. Thank you very much for also finding the right tutor for us in Carol; I feel that you really listened to what we needed for Mila in terms of style and approach.

Jason Gowlett, 11-plus summer revision and Creative writing course. 2020 – 2021

My daughter Zara took part in the 11 + revision and creative writing courses in summer 2020 (year 4 student) and 11+ revision course in 2021. The target in attending both courses in 2020 was to give Zara confidence as she moved into year 5 and final preparations for the 11+. The 2021 revision course was then all about embedding learning rather than learning things new. Whilst Zara was nervous on day 1 added to by the covid impact – she was welcomed in a friendly manner and when collected in the evening she came out beaming with a big smile – all excited to explain what she had learnt and how much she had enjoyed the day. The workshops were so engaging and FUN!  There is no doubt that Zara gained confidence from attending these courses and believed in herself and her ability more from taking part. The key that sets these courses apart is the engaging nature and importance placed on having fun, enjoying learning and praising all children for progress made and their hard work. They also produce great results with Zara passing both the Bexley and Kent tests that she sat – there is no doubt that these courses built Zara’s confidence and helped her get the results she did! I would highly recommend the courses. Maria is always on hand to help and support where needed. Zara is hoping now to attend Bexley Grammar School with her elder sister who also passed following attendance on these courses. Thanks, Jason.

Luciana Monfort-Hill, 11-plus summer revision course. 2020

I would highly recommend Progress Tutors to any parent and child wishing to challenge their learning to a new level of preparations for any entrance exam for selective schools (grammar or independent). My son did the summer course in August 2020 and loved it. The course was led by teachers with excellent subject matter expertise and they got to know my child very well in such a short period of time, which enabled him to know which areas of development to focus on, whilst being challenged on his strengths.

There was a clear effort to put a plan in place to have a strong adherence to the COVID guidelines and every single detail was  well planned and child’s safety was paramount.

At the time we did the course, our family was in between job decisions and our son sat exams for grammar schools in Yorkshire, as well as Kent. He passed in all 3 exams, and in Kent he also scored a very high mark, which would enable him to enter the super selective schools in the county.

We are happy we have found Maria and Progress Tutors team. Thank you

Catherine Pavone, 11-plus summer revision course. 2020

My daughter did the one-week exam preparation course at Progress Tutors and it was fantastic. Although only one-week, my daughter learnt a lot. It was not only the educational aspect, but also the exam skills (where to focus and where not to waste time) and the biggest plus was giving her confidence in exams which can be daunting for any 10 to 11-year old. I don’t know how they do it, but they made learning fun. She came away each day wanting to go back the next. Despite the added complexity of lockdown, the staff managed the social distancing and sanitisation aspect really well and this did not interfere at all with the quality of teaching. Thank you to all of the tutors and staff at Progress Tutors, you certainly helped contribute the the great results my daughter achieved to get into the school of he choice.  Catherine

Nikki Dobbs, 11-plus summer revision course. 2016 & 2019

We were recommended Progress Tutors by our daughters’ teacher a few years ago. She is a bright girl but, like so many other 11 year olds she did not know what to expect from the 11+ experience. What she gained from the summer holiday revision course was invaluable. It gave her perspective and footholds in her preparation. She was able to understand what the 11+ exam format would be where her strengths and weaknesses were. She was extremely comfortable with the surroundings and course work due to the welcoming and attentive tutors. Of course there was no question about our twin boys attending the same course three years later. They are very different boys with individual skill sets. The summer holiday revision course complimented their development learning so well. They were of course warmly welcomed by Maria and the team of tutors. They like their sister enjoyed going each day and found it was fun as well as informative. The relaxed but structured days were pitched perfectly to suit both boys. The course was a directional light which gave all three of our children a great perspective on the objective, the 11+ exam.
Our daughter achieved her goal in achieving a score within the top 180 children entering the Bexley Grammar School 11+ exam. But she qualified for her ultimate aim which was Newstead Wood.
The boys scored extremely well in the Kent 11+ and Bexley exams, but were selected to a Kent Boys school which offers only 20 places to boys outside their tight catchment area. They were delighted as it was their first choice.
All three were prepared and were not phased by the three demanding exams, thanks to Maria and her team. I highly recommend the week long Summer Revision Course.  Kind regards  Nikki Dobbs

Jason Gowlett, 11-plus summer revision course. 2018 – 2019

My Daughter (Ava) attended this course in 2019 and 2018 (when she was just finishing year 4). The aim was to give her a good grounding as she moved into year 5 to allow for consolidation and embedding the learning. The workshops are so engaging and whilst a little worried on day 1 – she was welcomed in a friendly and fun manner and by the end of the day you could see she had enjoyed the learning. Ava grew in confidence from attending these courses and believed in herself and her ability more. You can get many different providers of these courses – but I absolutely vouch for how engaging and fun this learning is made to be. The children are taught in a friendly manner which helps to ensure willing attendance and engaged learning. The proof is in the pudding though – and how proud I was when Ava passed all three 11+ exams that she sat. I would highly recommend the workshop/course. Maria is always on hand to help and support where needed as well. Ava will be attending Bexley Grammar School. Thanks, Jason

Ana Howcroft, 11-plus summer revision course. 2019 (Thomas with his prize from the summer course )

Thomas attended the 11+ five day summer revision. It was recommended to a friend whose son was also doing the same course. My son really enjoyed the whole week and found it very helpful for his exams! As a parent we found it a great booster for the final stretch. It was worth every penny.  Since our first phone call, Maria has been the kindest person you could come across and so supportive. She really looked after all the kids, making sure progression was made in all areas with amazing tutors and they would have a fun day, always with nice activities, plenty of refreshments and snacks! Thomas had a big grin whenever i’d pick him up at the end of the day.

Thomas worked hard for his exams, and we are so proud of him, however we are certain that Maria’s course contributed greatly in our son getting an offer from St Olave’s.

Alex Dimitriu, 11-plus summer revision course. 2019 (Leo enjoying a day out with his dog Coco)

Hi Maria, Just to let you know that Leo has done brilliantly in his mock tests this year and is well set up now for the ISEB common entrance tests in November. Thanks so much for the support.  The summer course was a massive help to get to this point! The week was intense which really made him sit up and think this is now serious, and he has to actually try harder. It’s also a great folder of work to use as reference.  Thanks, Alex.

Lisa Hardie, 11-plus summer revision course. 2015 – 2018

2018 was my 4th year in a row to have a child attend the summer course! Once again it was an essential step towards a pass in the Bexley 11plus. When I first called Maria in 2015 I knew very little about the 11plus and she not only recommended the course but also a good tutor near us. Since then both my daughter and son attended the course in the summer before Year 5 and then again the summer before the test. Attending the year before allowed them to see the level that is required to pass the test, it also gave me a detailed insight into what areas needed to be covered during the year. Maria and her staff gave us a detailed report of the strengths and weaknesses that we and our tutor needed to target, along with a list of recommended books. This was great to have considering the large amount of test papers now available. The best aspect of the course was how happy my children were to attend, year after year! The location is lovely and my daughter enjoyed sunbathing in the gardens. My son really enjoyed the lunchtime sports coach, as he got to burn off lots of energy. They both said the course made them feel much more confident to sit the test. My son even said he finally understood and enjoyed algebra! We are so thankful for Maria’s support and advice over the last 4 years.

Susan Goodwin, 11-plus summer revision course. 2018

Hi Maria, I meant to contact you ages ago to let you know our thoughts on the Summer revision course before any exams were taken or results published – but life took over! Anyway, I wanted to let you know that during that week, my children just seemed to blossom and rediscovered their love of learning in a small group of lively like-minded young people, which was a joy to see. After a pretty negative experience of tutoring elsewhere earlier in the year, I really had to give the “hard sell” to them about this course and only booked after reading through all the testimonials and speaking to you at length, as I was desperate to avoid a repeat of last time, but knew they needed more help than we were able to give them prior to taking their exams.
Well, after the first day they came home and just ploughed on with their homework until we had to tell them to stop – never seen anything like it before! I think the course just reignited their enthusiasm for learning, and as parents we were delighted and felt that was the best outcome possible.
Nearly two months on and we have two comfortable Bexley selective scores, an invitation to second round St Olaves, two very excited children and two parents exhausted from trekking around grammar school open days!
I would (and have) unreservedly recommend the summer course – it delivered far more than our expectations and we took great pleasure seeing our children happily learning and flourishing again. Thank you! Best Wishes, Susan

Cheryl Matthews, 11-plus summer revision course.  2018

My son did the summer revision course and he absolutely loved it – Yes it was hard work but he learned a lot and received lots of support throughout! We will 100% be returning again next year, (as he was only in year 4 then) so to repeat it again just before his 11+ exams will be an extra bonus, and with fingers crossed really help him through his exams.  HUGE thanks to the wonderful Maria and all the amazing tutors throughout the course for all the advice and tips. Thanks Progress Tutors, see you again in 2019 😉

Andrea Leupold, 11-plus summer revision course. 2018

The course ticked all the boxes for our son, Maria and her teaching team made him feel very welcome from day one, although he was not keen to go to school for a whole week initially. That turned around quickly to “Its great there, we work hard, have fun and I made a lot of new friends”. He indeed worked hard every day, the homework quantity was a little something after a long day, but he always felt proud once he finished it and it helped consolidate what he had learned during the day.  The teachers were demanding, but also very kind and helpful. He particularly enjoyed his Verbal Reasoning and Maths lessons. He also liked the break time activities with the coaches and the prizes which was a great way to finish off the week. All in all, he said “It did not feel like school, but like a revision camp with friends”. The course also helped boost his confidence in his ability and the resilience to sit the test and I am pleased to say that he successfully passed the Bexley and Kent 11+ test.

Natalie Pickering, 11-plus summer revision course. 2017

Sophia (pictured here chilling after all the exams were finished) LOVED the 11+ summer revision course 2017. The course covers all 4 components of the test (verbal, non-verbal, maths and English) and so much more including exam techniques and dealing with nerves. The pre-course assessments really allow the tutors to home in on your child’s area of development so they gain the most from the course as an individual whilst still learning in a friendly, relaxed group setting. The day is structured brilliantly with regular breaks and Sophia made new friends who were going through the 11+ process which made her realise she was not going through this alone! She found this invaluable to be able to talk to her peers and share how they were finding things in the run up to the exams. The course even provided the students with the equipment they need for the exam which was such a nice touch so when the day came for the exams Sophia was very well prepared with no surprises. Sophia did very well in all the tests she sat ( Kent, Bexley and Newstead Wood) and we are in the fortunate position to be able to choose from several grammar school options to put on her secondary school application form. Maria and her team are professional, experienced and caring tutors and we wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this revision course for any child embarking on the 11+ process. A big thank you to everyone at Progress tutors!

Valeriya Noel-Storr, 11-plus summer revision course. 2017

My son attended the summer revision course in August 2017 and he really enjoyed it. Particularly, he named three things that he liked most: feeling of being challenged, strong tutors who ensured that every child understood what they were supposed to take away at the end of the course and, finally, interacting with like-minded intelligent children who had same goals as he, i.e. to pass the 11+ exams.

From myself I can add that this was definitely worthwhile attending the summer course and when the question came up of whether to attend it, I did not think twice, even though my boy worked hard and already had a good base. The course boosted his confidence through various challenging exercises and assessments and then through the mock exam at the end of the course. It also solidified and summarised his knowledge in a more structured way; the teachers did a brilliant job of clarifying and explaining every type of task that may come up at the real exam and also provided valuable tips in terms of exam technique. The atmosphere was warm and friendly, teachers were very supportive and attentive. The course was challenging but fun too!

The result was that my son got into ‘top 180’ at Bexley grammar exam, passed Kent exam with also a very high score and we are currently waiting for the outcome of our 2^nd test for St. Olave’s grammar school (fingers crossed!) Kind regards, Valeriya.

Hi Maria, I’d like to share our good news with you – Freddie did get into St.Olave’s, the results came out yesterday and we were offered a place there. We are all so pleased!  Kind regards, Valeriya.

Dinshaw Nazir, 11-plus summer revision course. 2017

My son attended the Summer 2017 revision course and it was an excellent decision. Maria and all the teachers made every child feel comfortable and although they worked hard this was perfectly balanced with time to relax. They could play in lovely private gardens during regular breaks with fresh fruit and drinks provided as a snack. The teachers used were all specialists in their own areas and they made time to explain complex topics in such a way that my son grasped it. They also made time to explain topics that he struggled with and he always came home showing us new techniques that he’d mastered to answer problems. The course requires children to take pre-course tests to help the teachers identify areas that need attention so that no time is wasted during the course.  His confidence in his abilities has grown as a direct result of the course. The guidance given during the course, coupled with his hard work, has sealed him a place in the grammar stream of his chosen school. When I picked him up, I always saw relaxed and happy children who seemed enthused by the days learning.  Therefore, I would highly recommend this course for the level of teaching, support and encouragement that it gave our son.

My son wanted to add this…”I think that it was really inspiring and really helpful. I had a lot of fun and learnt a lot and passed my 11+ which I wouldn’t have been able to do without this course. Thank you Maria and all the tutors.”

Rob Chenery, 11-plus summer revision course. 2017

Our son Jenson took the one week summer course with Progress tutors and enjoyed it very much. It certainly built up his confidence and he also made some new friends from other schools along the way. He thought the school’s grounds were fun to play in at lunchtime. We are happy to say two months later Jenson  passed both the Bexley and Kent 11+ exams after a year of tutoring recommended through Maria (on English) and we sourced our own Maths tutor who happened to be one of the teachers during that week too. We would recommend this course to any parent who has a child preparing for the exam and is unsure. The course helped my son considerably especially with mock tests in the run up to the big one!

Hi Maria, I thought I would let you know Jenson, as of last Thursday, was accepted into his first choice Boys Grammar at the Judd School in Tunbridge 🙂  I’d like to say thank you again for all the help you gave us, as well as the summer course he went on last August.

Julia Rogers, 11-plus summer course 2017

Emma had a fabulous time on her revision course which she started straight after finishing her school year. Motivation levels were kept high and she looked forward to it every day. It definitely boosted her confidence and gave her much needed direction and support from different tutors. Emma comfortably passed her 11+ for Bexley and has just been selected by her school to enter the national Young Mathematician of the year award. This would not have happened had she not had the extra support and encouragement from both her tutor and the revision week. Thanks, Julia.

James Gore, 11-plus summer revision course. 2016 (photo – just after the 11+ test!)

The course is magnificently run and manages a seemingly impossible task of being enjoyable (fun even) for the kids whilst being of a very high demanding standard. It was absolutely ideal as a finishing course to tie in all the revision done, develop understanding of any weak spots, and to learn the test structure and technique needed. It is held in a wonderful location, with an emphasis on fun and play being incorporated, along with some treats to break up the study. It is so clear that the course owner and the tutors care about the children, and that gives and gets rewards alone. We are very pleased that we found the course and our daughter is delighted she went on it. (btw daughter passed Kent and Bexley tests).

Katie Blake, 11-plus summer revision course. 2016 (photo taken on results day)

Hi Maria, Just thought I’d let you know that, after attending the summer school, Sam passed all the 11+ exams he took (Kent, Bexley, Sutton and St Olaves) and was offered a place at his first choice school Wallington County Grammar last week.

Sam says “thank you very much, I absolutely loved the summer school and would recommend it to anyone. I’m very happy to be going to wallington in September!” Best wishes,  Katie.

Gemma Whitney, 11-plus summer revision course. 2016

My son was not looking forward to the week long 11+ revision course as he felt it was unfair that he was having to “go to school” during the summer holidays. However, I am pleased to say that not only was it a great learning experience, he also thoroughly enjoyed himself and made lots of new friends. The course itself was an excellent mix of teaching with some fun thrown in and taught him about exam technique tips, as well as consolidating his knowledge acquired over the course of the year with his tutor. We would be happy to recommend this course to anybody thinking of putting their child forward to sit the 11+. Our son has just received his results and we are delighted to say that he passed with flying colours. Whilst rightly taking most of the credit for this himself, we are also very grateful to Progress Tutors and Jake’s tutor for all their hard work and support in helping our son achieve his potential. We would be happy to recommend Progress Tutor’s 11+ revision course and tutoring service to anybody thinking of putting their child forward to sit the 11+. Best of luck!

Vivienne Foster, 11-plus summer revision course. 2016

I booked the summer course following a recommendation from a friend. I held off telling my daughter I’d booked it as she was due to start the course the day after we returned from our summer holiday and I was worried she’d hate me for booking her on something for a whole week of her school holidays! However she ended up having a great time; she really liked the tutors, and she made some good friends. The course was intensive and there was homework each day. My daughter hadn’t had any tutoring prior to the course, but she made fantastic progress from her pre-course tests to the ones on the final day of the course. It helped us to identify where she did need some additional support for entrance exams, and it helped her to build skills in understanding what questions are actually asking, and in planning and timing for exams. We are inexperienced with the whole world of tutoring/11 plus exam prep, and I was worried that this course might be a ‘sausage factory hothouse’ – but it absolutely wasn’t. It balanced challenging content with a warm and friendly atmosphere and was good value for money.
Maria is personal, responsive and very experienced and I would recommend this course and Progress Tutors unequivocally.

What some students have to say…

Alex, 11-plus summer course. 2023

I think the course was brilliant. The teachers are really good and always get everyone engaged. I learnt a lot – I think it’s brilliant that so many people can learn so much in just five days!  If anyone is having difficulty with a subject, the teacher always goes through it in extra detail!

Julia, 11-plus summer course. 2023

I loved this course because it filled in most of my weak points. You get fresh air every time you finish a fun time in the class. You also get amazing squash if you don’t want your water and there are really good biscuits too. The teachers are not strict at all, they are so understanding when you make a mistake.

Leo, 11-plus summer course. 2023

I really enjoyed the course because I learnt a lot of new things.  All of the teachers are calm, patient and never shout. That makes learning so much easier.

Annique, 11-plus summer course. 2023

The course is really good. The teachers are all lovely and they understand that you may be nervous and scared on your first day. Some of them are quite humorous as well. The course is not boring. The lessons are like completing a puzzle book. And don’t be stressed for the tests, the ones at the end are just to give you a feel of what the environment will be like when you do the real one.

Daniel, 11-plus summer course. 2023

I thought this course was an amazing experience. The teachers are kind and highly experienced and try their very hardest to give us an amazing experience. I have seen my exam grades go from 50% to a massive 90% Cory was the best as he taught 2 subjects and explained them magnificently.

Lottie, 11-plus summer course. 2023

I found it a really joyful experience. All the teachers are kind and will help you with anything. I have learnt a lot of new vocabulary and even some ways to calm down before tests. I think the most enjoyable thing is making new friends and running around in the beautiful garden.

Aristide, 11-plus summer course. 2023

I liked break time and all the fun games the teachers set up. The course was better than expected because I thought we would just knuckle down and do the booklet but we also played vocabulary games etc.

Annie, 11-plus summer course. 2023

I had fun at the 11+ course. The teachers are really kind and give lots of tips for the test. The mock exams give you a chance to see what the real test would be like.  I learnt lots of new and different things that I didn’t know about like hole punching in non-verbal reasoning.

Seren, 11-plus summer course. 2023

The course was fun and educational. On the last day you do a mock exam and when they are all done you do some fun activities and make new friends. Thank you for the birthday surprise at lunchtime 🙂

Maliha, 11-plus summer course. 2023

On the whole, this 11+ revision course is amazing. I really enjoyed it. All of the teachers are funny and kind – they never put real pressure on you! Break time is always super fun so I really recommend it.

Florence, 11-plus summer course. 2022

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to practise for my first important test! I’m now more confident in algebra, areas of triangles and parallelograms, codes, letter sequences and PEE (Point, Evidence, Explain).  I enjoyed learning more algebra the most as I now feel more prepared. I also enjoyed learning different formats of tests.

Danel, 11-plus summer course. 2022

I liked the hard working teachers who tried to make the day as fun as possible.  I now understand more on comprehension and different questions in English like how to identify different techniques used in texts. This is an educational place full of fun.  Thank you.

Lucas, 11-plus summer course. 2022

I really enjoyed the course. You have loads to learn.  The teachers make the lessons fun and although you feel nervous at first, it’s actually fun. The mock exams help with your confidence. It was way better than I expected.  At break there is a toy box of equipment, and they provide juice and biscuits.

Safia, 11-plus summer course. 2022

I loved the course. It made me improve in a lot of different topics and sub-topics. Henry, Cory, Debbie and Jackie always made learning easy. There are always fun games here and I made tons of friends. Everyone supported me. They serve drinks and at the end you can win prizes!!! It’s amazing. Everyone here is so friendly. The mock exams were great.  The course was much much better than I expected!

Samuele, 11-plus summer course. 2022

I enjoyed verbal reasoning the most because I improved massively and I love how Cory teaches. The course is amazing, you improve so much and it’s real fun.

 

Terry, 11-plus summer course. 2021

I have enjoyed meeting all the teachers here because they have helped me a lot and are really kind. I understand P.E.E. and writing long answers in English much better now. Thank you for teaching me!

Isabela, 11-plus summer course. 2021

In maths Henry taught us ratio and algebra.  I was not really confident in ratio but after he taught us it was so easy to do we all gave Henry a clap.  You get to know everyone and understand things that you didn’t know before so you will be able to go off and do it on your own. I had a great time here and I wish everyone best of luck.

Joshua, 11-plus summer course. 2021

This has to be the best 11+ course ever. Everybody who is able to do it should do it.  The thing I enjoyed most was the learning because when doing it you have fun but at the same time learn lots of new things like algebraic equations.  After doing the course I now know how to do better comprehension answers.  I also feel more prepared for the 11-plus exam because at the end of the course we did mindful activities to help us before and after the 11-plus exam.

Ayeehsa, 11-plus summer course. 2021

Taking part in this course has been really fun. In maths I always lacked confidence in nets and cubes, however now I am much more confident and relaxed. I have learnt various different strategies and methods for all the subjects. Revising and studying more has made me realise I can do it.  Just putting a bit of effort into harder trickier topics was all I really needed to do. All the teachers are really nice and help you if you are stuck, they made me laugh at times.  I loved participating.

Dami, 11-plus summer course. 2021

I enjoyed that the 11+ course was more fun than I expected. I’d say that the course gives you a lot more confidence with your work and you meet some nice friends.  I enjoyed it!!!!

Lesedi, 11-plus summer course. 2021

The course is amazing. You make lots of new friends and improve your scores for the 11+. This week I revised and learnt new things and feel more prepared because the mock exam has highlighted my strengths and weaknesses.  I enjoyed the group discussions in NVR and socialising and playing games at break the most. I now feel more confident in,  Extended answers – English, Nets of shapes – Maths, Synonyms and Antonyms – VR, Hole punching – NVR.

Dylan, 11-plus summer course. 2021

I enjoyed how fun they made the lessons and that the course has taught me loads of techniques. If my friend was thinking about doing the course I would tell him to really look forward to it.

Summer 2020. Keeping a safe distance with two sets of twins ‘in a bubble’.

 

Ava, 11-plus summer course. 2020

I was not expecting to do PE at Lunch at all but it was so much fun. To be honest I now feel more confident in everything.  All of the tips I’ve learnt are really useful and I have definitely improved in speed and accuracy. I feel more prepared for the 11+ than I would have without the course. I think it is because this is a revision course, yes, so I did learn, but I benefited most from all the advice, tips, the support to try again and the endless supply of help they gave us. I would say you should do it. It really helps and if I made such a massive improvement, you can too!

Tate, 11-plus summer course. 2020

I enjoyed the kindness of the adults and how easy it was to make friends. Maria was very generous in setting up a once in a life-time experience. At first I was not so strong in NVR but now I know tips and tricks that will help me succeed. I have learned so much in the short time. It was a comforting way to be more prepared for my 11+.

Sophie, 11-plus summer course. 2020

I really enjoyed the lessons as there were very nice teachers and you learn a lot more from them than if you were at home.  They also provide you with fun outdoor games at break-time. I understand my English  comprehension extended answers now as I’d only put brief details when now I know the more detailed answer the more marks as I got taught the PETER method.  I definitely feel more prepared for the 11-plus as I was worried I would be too nervous to do the test, but on the last day we did mock exams which completely raised my confidence. The course is fun and you learn lots, the teachers are very nice and I highly recommend. Amazing course and very well organised!  Well done 🙂

Falisha, 11-plus summer course. 2020

I loved a million and one things about the course. It is so worth it and the teachers are lovely. I was not confident in NVR and maths but I had my mind blown when my maths teacher Henry showed me a ratio and proportion trick.  I am now more confident in NVR and my maths has improved so much. I loved the fact that everything was cleaned after someone used it. I would like to thank Maria and all the teachers who taught me. I am now a better learner and student than before! It was Amazing!!!

Henry, 11-plus summer course. 2020

I enjoyed making new friends, because of Covid, I usually couldn’t go outside so I enjoyed it. I feel more prepared for my 11+ exam because the only thing I was worried about was comprehension, but now I’m much better. I also now understand many more new words and I have confidence in VR. I’m really grateful for learning here and making new friends. 🙂 🙂 Thanks!!!

Joshua, 11-plus summer course. 2020

I loved the way they taught us, and that the activities that were planned were wonderful. I was terrible at NVR but now I am very confident about completing an NVR paper. I feel more prepared for my 11+ exam as I have now covered the areas I didn’t understand and have them plugged in my brain. THANKS!

Sophie, 11-plus summer course. 2020

I learnt lots of new words like solder which means to melt two metals together. I revised everything I knew and learnt lots of new tricks for things I wasn’t so sure on.  I enjoyed the PE, especially the races as I am very sporty.  I would say I really enjoyed the course, everyone was very friendly and the whole group soon knew each other.

Oscar, 11-plus summer course. 2020

I didn’t want to do this course at first but I really enjoyed it. I enjoyed maths the most because it was taught in creative ways and was so helpful. I am now more confident in algebra, well written answers in English and nets and cubes. It also helped with my speed.  The teachers are amazing.

Lola, 11-plus summer course. 2020

I very much enjoyed everyday of this course especially my last day when we did our exams as we had lots of encouraging words from all of the teachers. I feel much more prepared for my 11+ and now know much more than I did before plus lots of new words! Coming onto this course I wasn’t confident in my Non-verbal but everyday I became more confident and now enjoy it. Thank you! The tutors are so nice and always really want to help you succeed . At break times we play games and you can make lots of new friends. Thank you so much!

Darcie, 11-plus summer course. 2020

The subjects I enjoyed most was maths and VR because it was really fun and I learnt a lot. In VR I now understand more about cloze tests and codes, in maths I learnt BIDMAS, in English I learnt about 6 mark questions and in NVR I learnt about rotation. The course was brilliant and I definitely recommend it to anyone, even the Queen. Thank you for your help and encouragement!!!!

Zara, 11-plus summer course. 2020

This things I liked most about the course were the kind teachers, ice lollies as a treat and they made it so fun I forgot how scared I was at first. I loved this course, thank you so much!

Eleanor, 11-plus summer course. 2020

I enjoyed all of the course because the staff were so helpful and kind. I now know lots more words such as dappled, clemency and odious and my maths teacher showed me how to do ratio and my mind was blown!!! 🙂 It was brilliant. Thank you 🙂 !!!

Robert, 11-plus summer course. 2020

I really enjoyed having the support of the teachers and the snacks at break time when we would play games and run around.  The staff worked hard and it was evident that they cared about health and safety. Previously, I struggled with non-verbal but now I am reasonably comfortable and less nervous when approaching certain questions like nets and odd one out. I am now confident and feel prepared to attempt the 11+.

 

Sam, 11-plus summer course. 2019

I have really enjoyed my time on the summer revision, it has been packed with fun and games but has also been a great place to learn loads of interesting things. All the teachers were amazing. Break times and lunch times were amazing and Henry and his friends made them even better. Maria was so great and was so kind and made my time memorable. All in all, it is learning with a fun twist!

Aaron, 11-plus summer course. 2019

When I came here my English wasn’t great but by the end of it, I feel that it was much better than before. My comprehension was really bad but now I think it is better. My vocabulary was as tiny as an ant but now it seems like a planet that is the size of Jupiter! Codes were terrible too but now I feel more than confident to do them. My NVR skills were the worst of them all. Rotation, folding cubes and joining shapes together etc.. Now it is improved and I can do them all much better. Overall, it was fun and I learnt a lot at the same time.

Maia, 11-plus summer course. 2019

It has been a lovely experience coming here. I have loved the view, the place, the teaching, and, especially Henry. I could make new friends and enjoy myself. I was able to learn new things and strategies. In maths I knew most of the things but I  learnt mirror line. In English we did comprehension which was mostly on reading the question and thinking about what the question was asking. In verbal we did vocab activities. I worked on speed and accuracy in Non-verbal and it helped. Overall it has been a lovely experience. A pleasure to have come.

Rhys, 11-plus summer course. 2019

I enjoyed learning with different teachers who share their own perspectives and techniques. In English, Debbie explains how to answer the comprehension questions very thoroughly and helps us to understand them. In maths, Anita carefully explains each equation with great detail. Very helpful! In verbal reasoning, Ross helps us answer the most challenging questions and is a great teacher. In non-verbal reasoning, Angela helps us to understand how to crack every code or continue every sequence. I have grown a lot more confident on this course and I have really enjoyed it. Thank you.

Ciara, 11-plus summer course. 2019

I have enjoyed my week here and I definitely think that my skills have improved after all of this. All of the teachers are friendly and very experienced. Also, lunch and breaks are fun because we’re provided with equipment and we get a PE teacher to play games. I had so much fun that I came back for a second week! I definitely recommend for any one struggling.

Oscar, 11-plus summer course. 2019

5 star rating! ***** I really enjoyed my week experience. I know it seemed like a week off an annual holiday and most children wouldn’t want to come but it was GREAT FUN! The teachers at Progress Tutors have made me a magnet, a magnet for knowledge! Thank you Progress Tutors!

Leila, 11-plus summer course. 2019

What I liked about the course: I liked how the courses only had 9- 10 people in them so the teachers can really take their time with you. I really enjoyed maths because before I went to the revision course, I was at least 30% and now I am really confident and at least a 60%. I also enjoyed maths because our teacher really understood our questions and knew how to help. This revision course was the same one my sister went to and she wasn’t very confident in English and was 40-50% and then she went up to 80% in one week. She passed the 11+ with 84% in English! I made so many friends on this course and the teachers were really nice.

Ewan, 11-plus summer course. 2019

When I first came here, I was really nervous and had loads of questions. Was I going to make friends? Would I understand everything? As soon as I came in, my questions were answered by the teachers and Maria. We all made friends very quickly and the teachers were really kind to us. We started off with maths and our teachers were Anita and later in the week Natalie. They explained things really clearly. Second, we had a break outside and played with the equipment and ate fresh fruit and had squash as well as biscuits. After break we had English with Debbie and had so much fun learning words and doing comprehension. At lunch we had Henry- a PE instructor to play fun games with us. I particularly enjoyed dodgeball. After lunch we had verbal reasoning with Ros which was brilliant. Last we had Non-Verbal with Angela. I have improved dramatically in Non-Verbal since. I would recommend this course to anyone taking the 11+.

Nifemi (yr 4) 11-plus summer course. 2019

Dear Maria, Thank you for allowing me to come on your course. I have really enjoyed it and hope I can come back next year. I would like to tell you what I have learnt in every subject and what I would like to add to the activities. Maths – My favourite thing that you taught me was percentages. It was quite easy as it was out of 100. Verbal reasoning – Thank you Ross for teaching me synonyms and antonyms because I got to learn more words that will come out in the exam. Non-verbal – Thank you Izabela for teaching me nets of a cube especially because I used to get confused with it but now I’m an expert. English – Thank you Sara. I loved it when you taught us punctuation because it’s my favourite thing. I am so happy that I am going to have tuition with you soon. Advice – I have loved doing sports because I am very agile but I would also like to do art at break times because I love to draw. Yours sincerely, Nifemi.

Scarlett, 11-plus summer course. 2019

My time at the Progress Tutors 11+ course was amazing. I go to a school that doesn’t prep me for the 11+ so this really helped me get closer to going to the school that I want to go to. I loved the teachers here. The maths teacher Anita really helped me with my maths and Debbie explained how to do comprehension properly. Every break time we get fruit and biscuits and at lunch Henry (a PE teacher) comes in to play games with us. The 11+ course helped everyone’s learning ability and it is so easy to make friends. The teachers supply us with toys and games to play and we eat lunch outside. Thank you to all the teachers here and a special thanks to Maria for creating this awesome place!

Zain, 11-plus summer course. 2019

When I first came to Progress Tutors, I wasn’t sure if I would like it. Now that I know all the teachers and have made new friends, I’ve realised that it is fun. The subject I found difficult was English but now I have learnt more about it and I know how to answer the difficult questions. English is now one of my favourite subjects in the 11+. One of my biggest improvements is my vocabulary in verbal reasoning. I have really enjoyed Progress Tutors and want to do everything again!

 

Nina, 11-plus summer course. 2018

The subjects I enjoyed most were verbal reasoning and English because everything was made fun but educational. I also enjoyed participating in the activities that Henry organised for us during lunch – you had to be really competitive!  I feel more confident in comprehension, story planning and problem solving in maths. I also feel more prepared for my 11+ because I was fully supported where I was weak, and I improved. I would really recommend this course as it’s the best learning experience ever!

Monty, 11-plus summer course. 2018

I have enjoyed my course and it’s really helped. My scores have zoomed up and now I feel confident taking my 11-plus. The mock exams helped me to understand the atmosphere of the 11-plus. The teachers are very nice. I never felt under pressure as they made sure everyone was comfortable.

Summer, 11-plus summer course. 2018

At first I almost killed my mum because she did not tell me that the course was one school week, so I kept going on and on about me having to go to school, but I look back and think how much have I improved? Answer: A bunch! It is super fun even if it is school. The teachers were so nice they were better than school teachers. I feel 100% more confident about the 11+. When I came I did not understand algebra or letters as numbers. If I could do it again, I would.

Khari, 11-plus summer course. 2018

I enjoyed learning and making new friends. I specifically liked English and Non-verbal reasoning. I now understand rotation in non-verbal and various things in English such as punctuation, metaphor and simile.  I feel more prepared for my 11plus because I had no idea of how it would be but the teachers described the process a lot more. You might not like it at first but trust me you will end up liking it and you will make new friends and learn more. Thank you for teaching me the best techniques. I really appreciate it.

Melanie, 11-plus summer course. 2018

I enjoyed playing fun games and learning new things. I now know much more since I arrived. Everyone is kind and they really look after us. I love it here.

Sophia, 11-plus summer course. 2018

I enjoyed the course and feel much more confident to take my 11+. I thought it would not be as nice as this because I expected the teachers to be harsh and the home work would take ages, but the teachers are amazing and the home work too!  The teachers open your mind in a lovely way. I learnt lots.

Talvin, 11-plus summer course. 2018

This week has been brilliant, and I have achieved so much! My test scores have dramatically improved and the mock exams have made me a lot more comfortable with doing tests.

Heidi, 11-plus summer course. 2018

I enjoyed maths the most because it was interesting to get feedback on my work. I now understand how to plan my stories and have learnt a lot more in NVR. The course was fun but educational and now, thanks to the brilliance of the teachers and fellow students I feel much more prepared. Thank you for all the help you’ve given us!

Adrian, 11-plus summer course. 2018

I enjoyed English the most because they explained it very well. I am now more confident in comprehension, verbal cloze tests, the staircase method for maths and timing in Non-verbal. Thank you for helping me improve in every subject you teach.

Ayush, 11-plus summer course. 2018

I have learnt lots of new skills. I would say this is a fun course with fun breaks and a fun way to learn normally boring things.

Ameera, 11-plus summer course. 2018

I enjoyed everything about the course because it was much better than expected. The teachers inspired me to do more work and to improve.  In maths I think I’m much better at mode, median, mean and range and in English I’m better at creative writing.  In NVR I can now do rotations and in VR I’m better at synonyms. I recommend this course because it’s really fun and I enjoyed coming. Hope to see you soon.

Murphy, 11-plus summer course. 2018

I enjoyed the lessons most because I always got chance to answer questions.  I now have more confidence in maths because my maths teacher was very encouraging and helped me with things I struggled with. I also feel more prepared for the 11+ because I have learnt more than I knew and I’m now used to being tested. I would encourage children to come here because it would help them to pass the 11+ and if they failed they would still have a good start at their new school.

Freddie, 11-plus summer course. 2017

I enjoyed playing with my friends at breaks time. It’s not six hours of work! Definitely I understand English more because my comprehension was bad but has now risen to 90%. It was hard but really helpful. I used to worry that I hadn’t enough time to prepare but I feel I could sit the exam right now. It genuinely felt so great, I would wake up and couldn’t wait to go.

Florence, 11-plus summer course. 2017

I enjoyed making new friends and I learnt lots of tips on what to do in an exam. I didn’t know algebra before but now I have learnt it and love doing it. I would say do the course because you won’t be scared on the day of the 11+ and there are lots of break times and a lunch break. I thought it would be scary but it is not and I made more friends than I imagined.

Sasha, 11-plus summer course. 2017

I enjoyed meeting lots of new people and feeling welcome. In a week it felt like my second home. The things I understand better are non-verbal and inequality in maths.  I also had more practice with my timing. Thank you I’m really glad I came.

Nicole, 11-plus summer course. 2017

I liked playtime because there’s a lot of space to run around and enjoy ourselves. It was nice to have a break after each subject. I now know to mark questions I guess with the same letter and that it is important to check your work. I think after going to this course I definitely feel prepared for the 11+. I really enjoyed the course. I have learnt a lot and would definitely recommend it.

Chloe, 11-plus summer course (year 4 course). 2017

I mostly enjoyed playtime because I made 6 friends and had great fun. Also I looked forward verbal because I learnt new words, very big ones I can use in stories. I now understand adding and subtracting fractions with different numbers at the top. I also feel more ready for the 11+ exam because we did mock tests and the teachers tell us don’t be sad if you get a bad mark.  I did year 5 things and I am in year 4. I was really worried at first and I didn’t want to go but now I’ve had a great time and I am not scared.

Simran, 11-plus summer course. 2017

The course was fun and I learned loads of stuff such as algebra, speech marks and cubes in non-verbal. I also know more words in verbal. I feel more prepared for my 11+ because I have run through tests and practised finishing in time. Join this course it is amazing. I really liked it!

Ollie, 11-plus summer course. 2017

I feel more confident in everything. It’s fun and educational. I liked the cakes at break the most.  5 stars.

Alice, 11-plus summer course. 2017

I enjoyed verbal reasoning lessons the most. I also understand literacy much more and I have gone up 18%. I feel more prepared because I now know what exam conditions are like. It is extremely welcoming and Maria is very nice. Almost instantly you make a friend.

Emma, 11-plus summer course. 2017

I enjoyed the break times and that the teachers all care about you if you have a problem because it makes you feel at home. I am now better at semi-colons, perimeter and area and algebra. The teachers show you how to do things properly and how to get to the correct answer. Thank you for making this course so enjoyable and fun!

Amandeep, 11-plus summer course. 2017

I enjoyed how much we learnt. I now understand fractions much better and we practised lots of tests. I would definitely recommend it.  The prizes were nice.

Ethan, 11-plus summer course. 2017

I enjoyed verbal with Ros the most and all the playtimes with cakes. I have more confidence in algebra and writing stories with Sara and Izabela.  I learnt a lot and feel like if I came back here next week I could take the 11+ straight away. I would say thumbs up.

Toni, 11-plus summer course. 2016

I enjoyed the English lessons most because I learnt something new and the teacher was really kind. I am more confident in planning stories, writing stories and starting sentences. I also know how to use pronouns when mentioning two people and how to check my work. I now know what will happen in the 11+ exam and feel more prepared. The course is fun and you make new friends.

Evie, 11-plus summer course. 2016

I liked everything about the course! I am now better at ratio, algebra and commas. It really does help and take away your nerves.

Alice, 11-plus summer course. 2016

The thing I enjoyed most about the course are the friendly tutors and the house that it is in. They make learning fun and easy to understand. I now have more confidence in verbal, non-verbal and particular parts of maths and English. The experience is brilliant and you can walk out of Ripley Arts Centre  with a head full of new knowledge and friends! The course is definitely worth going on with a special surprise at the end…

Sam, 11-plus summer course. 2016

I enjoyed making new friends and seeing ourselves improve. The things I understand better are word problems in maths, vocab in English and comprehension. You have fun and learn so much. I improved by 25% on maths and comprehension. I feel almost certain I’ll pass. Thank you so much Maria, Ros, Sara, Izabela, Anita and Angela for a great time.

Edima, 11-plus summer course. 2016

I have more confidence in my timing and also in my maths and non-verbal. I feel much more prepared for my 11+ exam because unlike some others, they give you what     you expect and interact with you. They help you make progress that is why they are called Progress Tutors.

Lauren, 11-plus summer course. 2016

I now have more confidence in doing maths word problems, BY A LOT! I have also enjoyed verbal because I have learnt the meaning of words and I have learnt a lot. I would say that the course has helped me by a massive improvement and I recommend going.  Thank you for all of the help!

Jake, 11-plus summer course. 2016

Maths is one of the most amazing things here and you learn so many things in the first five minutes. I have loads more confidence in verbal reasoning and have a lot more knowledge in it. I feel way more prepared for my exam and don’t feel scared at all. The teachers are so nice. It has been a lot of fun and I feel that I am better in every subject.

Ella, 11-plus summer course. 2016

I learnt a whole lot in English and had so many laughs. I understand comprehension much more and I improved in my creative writing. I feel more prepared and confident in the 11+ because the questions are much easier now. I was terrified at the beginning and nervous.  Soon enough I made 2 really amazing friends. I had so much fun on the course. Thank you.

Hannah, 11-plus summer course. 2016

I can’t decide what I enjoyed most on the course – everything, it was all really fun. I am now better at ratio, algebra, creative writing and comprehension. I feel more confident because I now know what it will be like taking the tests. The course is so much fun and you get biscuits. I want to do the course again when I do my GCSE exams!

Anna, 11-plus summer course. 2016

The course is brilliant and so are the staff. I recommend it 100%. I liked making new, out of school friends and learning so much from all aspects such as many rules in maths and meeting Foxy! I understand maths language much better and in English how to use proper punctuation and planning. This course has helped my confidence for the tests. I would like to say that this course is brilliant.

Krish, 11-plus summer course. 2016

The things I understand better now are maths word problems and comprehension. I really enjoyed the fun games that we played outside because they have a big garden. On the last day of the course we do tests and correct our work. You also get prizes if you do well.

Elizabeth, 11-plus summer course. 2016

I enjoyed maths the most because I learnt something new everyday as well as all the other subjects. I have learnt a good way to plan a story but quickly. I am more prepared for my exam because I got a higher mark in my mock exam than the test before. It is a very friendly course.

Emily, 11-plus summer course. 2016

What I enjoyed in the course was how the teachers always help you to improve on all the subjects and I enjoyed making new friends. I improved a lot on vocabulary by learning a lot of new words that have stuck in my head. I feel more relaxed about the exam and less stressed.  If you are looking for a course try ‘progress tutors’ which will help you a lot. Sara (the English teacher) has a very lovely dog – called Foxy and is very well-trained and likes sandwiches.

Sophie, 11-plus summer course. 2016

I now understand ratio, fractions and when to use colons.  You learn lots and it is hard work but it is incredibly fun too. Foxy is the best mascot ever!

Eva, 11-plus summer course.  2015

The lessons engaged me and the teachers were great. Foxy the dog was lovely too.   The things I have more confidence in are grammar and punctuation in English, fractions in maths, sequences in VR and nets and cubes in  NVR.  I learnt so many new skills and there is so much I now know that I didn’t know before. I feel much more prepared for my exam.

Yashvi, 11-plus summer course.  2015

I enjoyed maths because I learnt so many new things.   I don’t think any other course could be so much fun.  The things I now understand better  are algebra, reflection, nets, vocabulary and codes.  On the second to last day we went through the Bexley, Kent and Newstead rules and regulations so I feel a lot more prepared for the exam. I loved stroking Foxy.

Louis, 11-plus summer course.  2015

I enjoyed English the most because I liked the teacher, Sara is fun and you learn whilst having fun. I learnt a lot more words and I can still remember their meanings and how to spell them. My English vocab wasn’t the best but now it is.  I thought I wouldn’t make friends but I did.  In the end I didn’t want to leave.

Keya, 11-plus summer course.  2015

On the course the teachers set you homework and if you get any wrong they fully explain how to get the right answer. I feel more confident in all my subjects but I improved more on maths and non-verbal. The course teaches you anything you struggle with.

Tabitha, 11-plus summer course.  2015

I liked that we got fruit and drinks to give us energy. I now have more confidence in all 4 topics but I have improved more in English. I feel more prepared for the exam because I now get more marks than I used to get. You have to pay attention to what the teachers are saying and apply it to your work. The teachers are very friendly and they give you sweets if you are good.

Isabelle, 11-plus summer course.  2015

I enjoyed doing the exams as it gave me confidence to do better than the pre course tests. I now understand  story writing in English, area, perimeter and ratio in maths and non-verbal. The course was a mixture of fun and work.  You make new friends and learn new things. All the teachers are lovely.  Maria is wonderful and lovely too.

Henry, 11-plus summer course.  2015

I enjoyed English the most because I learned to show off my skills.  I also now know how to deal with trickier questions in all subjects. I feel more prepared for my exam because before  I wasn’t sure how to use some words, but now I have much greater confidence. It was a euphoric experience, and I would rather come here than go to school!

Isabella, 11-plus summer course.  2015

I enjoyed the lessons because I felt I could say what I wanted to say and in general I felt more relaxed.  I now have more confidence in fractions and comprehension.  I learnt different ways  to solve things.  I learnt a lot.  The course was fun and I made new friends.

Ben, 11-plus summer course.  2015

The thing I liked most about the course was learning new techniques to work out problems in maths.  Also I have a better understanding of English literature and learning new words that sound crazy! I feel more prepared for my 11-Plus exam because all the areas in my brain are covered.  I’m ready to go!  I loved Foxy the dog because he is a good friend and calmed me down.  I also made 4 new friends. There is absolutely nothing to be nervous about coming to this course.

Mary, 11-plus summer course.  2015

I am now more confident in my maths, especially algebra thanks to Izabela. Even though Angela was quite strict I still learnt a lot in her NVR lessons.  I also learnt many new words in English and VR.  I feel more prepared for my exam because I’ve learnt much quicker techniques for all four subjects. I enjoyed the lessons as things that I didn’t understand were covered so now I do understand. I enjoyed having Foxy around.

Luca, 11-plus summer course.   2015

The place is amazing, you make new friends and learn so much.  My English used to be bad but I moved up. I also gained confidence in maths verbal and non-verbal. The course was fun.

Reina, 11-plus summer course.  2015

I enjoyed making new friends. I now know more words in English, different methods for maths and I became quicker in Non-verbal. I feel more prepared for my exam because I am a lot quicker. The course was a lot of fun.  I also liked the fruit.

Isobel, 11-plus summer course. 2014

The thing I like most about the course is that if you say something is hard or you are unable to do it a teacher will ALWAYS help you.  They portray that they really care about my exam results and I have really grown to like them.  I love the way that instead of just telling me to do things and making me do what my friends can do they focus on bringing out the best in me.  I am now more confident in turning fractions into mixed numbers and e.g. John will be R in 7 years what was he 3 years ago? I now feel really prepared for the 11+ exam.   The Course is brilliant, thank you so much for everything!  I love having Foxy around, she is so cute!

Lauren, 11-plus summer course. 2014

I enjoyed English the most because I am not very good at it so I learnt a lot. I understand everything about the 11-Plus much better. I feel more prepared and I don’t feel stressed.  The course was fantastic,  I loved it.  Thank you!!!

Rosalie, 11-plus summer course. 2014

I now understand decimals and fractions much better and am now not scared or worried about my exam. I have learnt lots of new things and have enjoyed making new friends. Thank you for teaching me.

Sophia, 11-plus summer course. 2014

I enjoyed having different teachers on the course. I now feel more confident in English and non-verbal and feel more prepared for my exam because I don’t have a weak subject anymore.  It was great fun but I still learnt a lot. Having Foxy was great.

Ryan, 11-plus summer course. 2014

I really enjoyed writing funny stories with the English teacher and I also loved being around her dog. I can now use a range of puntuation from question marks all the way to full stops and elipses. I feel a lot more prepared for my exam because I know a lot more words and their meanings.  I made lots of new friends and learnt a lot.

Mia, 11-plus summer course. 2014

This course has helped me understand anagrams and also algebra. I now have a lot more confidence in my maths which has made me believe in myself.  I feel a lot more prepared for the 11-Plus because I have learnt a lot. I have also enjoyed working and making observations of the imense progress I have made.  I really enjoyed making new friends.

Deeya, 11-plus summer course. 2014

I enjoyed learning different things and  am now more confident in algebra, creative writing and comprehension. It is a lovely place and I have learnt a lot and also had fun. Thank you for teaching me.

Joseph, 11-plus summer course. 2014

I liked most the English lessons because I improved in my writing.  I now know the difference between where and were.  I feel more prepared for my 11+ exam because we did mock exams and I looked at my mistakes.

Margaret, 11-plus summer course. 2014 

I like Sara’s English lessons because I learnt a lot and she is funny and has a dog.  I now understand commas, apostrophes and am much better at story writing and planning.  I also feel more confident in vocabularly and missing letters in verbal, cubes in non-verbal and percentages, decimals  and fractions. The course was fun and cool.

Callum, 11-plus summer course. 2014 

I loved the friendly service that was given to us. I feel more prepared for my exam as I have had a good time to think and work hard in a quiet environment.  I am more confident in Non-verbal and maths now as the working out is easy. I hope you can expand and become popular.

Georgina, 11-plus summer course. 2014

The best thing was making new friends because then I could work with them in the lessons. I am  more confident in my vocabularly and in verbal reasoning and feel more confident in mock exams. Before the course I  thought it was a bit scary but in the end I really enjoyed it. Thank you for all your help and I will miss you! I will  really miss  Foxy because I don’t have a pet at home.

Olushola, 11-plus summer course. 2012

The main things I have learnt are different methods to do maths, English, verbal and non-verbal problems. I enjoyed learning new things, making new friends and having a teacher that cares about every single one of us.  In verbal I now understand how to do the opposite meaning, word progression and find the 4 letter word…

Samuel, 11-plus summer course. 2012

We learnt maths, tips for writing essays, creative writing and how to think of a catchy title. We also did verbal and non-verbal with Angela.  After we did tests to see if we were better and more confident. I have improved my confidence on everything. Thank you.

Aizenosa, 11-plus summer course.  2012

The things I learnt most on the course were maths and non-verbal. The lady taking the course expanded on the areas that we didn’t understand and that children commonly got wrong. I  feel more confident in reading scales, algebra and decimal places.  In verbal I am better at codes and number sequences. During the course I enjoyed working in a comfortable environment with a friendly teacher and learning new things.

Samuel, 11-plus summer course.  2012

I learnt tips on doing essays, comprehension, creative writing and maths. I also learnt how to plan a story and think of a catchy title.  I also did Non-verbal with Angela. At the end of the course we did tests to see if we were better and more confident. I improved in everything thanks to progress tutors because I used to not have much confidence on many things.

Enjoying time with Foxy, our 11-plus mascot

Cooling off on a very hot day in 2018

A touching note handed to Maria at breaktime