If inspired, bright children will love learning.
Why do the 11+
In Colchester we are fortunate enough to have two of the highest ranking grammar schools in the country: Colchester County High School for Girls (CCHS) and Colchester Royal Grammar School (CRGS). In Essex generally we have other excellent grammar schools and links to websites for these can be found in the CSSE section of my website along with entry criteria.
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The 11 plus preparation also helps children gain access and scholarships to private schools. Similarly, children achieve outstanding SATs results required to enter top sets in their local state secondary schools.
MY TEACHING STYLE
There are many factors that lead to success in the 11 plus exam. Your child will need to be an able learner with parental support, access to the relevant preparation materials and, most importantly of all, a good tutor. I foster an energetic and inspiring teaching style in my lessons (please see my testimonials) and many of my pupils describe their weekly 11 plus session with me as their favourite out of school activity. I believe the successes of my students have been founded not only in the detailed, specialist knowledge I have gained over the years, but also in the way I relate to the children and deliver my lessons. The love of learning I share with my 11 plus students unlocks the potential that lies within a child.
IF INSPIRED, BRIGHT CHILDREN WILL LOVE LEARNING.
I will know your child has the ability to do well in their 11+ learning and I will unlock their potential!
How my lessons run
I offer small group sessions which is the best way to deliver the 11+ curriculum; children ‘bounce’ off one another, competing in a healthy way and creating an inspired atmosphere where they find the learning very stimulating. I deliver mathematical topics using a white board at the beginning of my sessions, explaining and teaching the most relevant methods required. I then use the latter part of the lessons to help individual children with their work as they practice the techniques. In English, we analyse a range of literature, for example, Jane Austen and Charles Dickens. We have weekly spelling tests and practice creative writing techniques. Again I use a white board, especially with vocabulary or ‘letter patterns’ work. I have a wealth of experience and resources available to support your child in all the aspects of the 11 plus exam.
Homework
Just as a child learning an instrument sees their music teacher once a week and then practices the techniques taught, so it is true for children studying towards the 11 plus exam. I will set weekly homework which I mark in my own time, giving detailed, targeted feedback and written guidance on a weekly basis. Further to this, parents can call me any time for support. I am here to support the whole family, not just the child.
Mock Exam
11 plus tutor colchester offers two mock exams annually to build confidence by offering a replica of the 11 plus proper:
The English paper is of one hour, ten minutes duration. It begins with ten minutes reading time followed by comprehension questions on the passage they have just read. There will be some Verbal (applied) Reasoning questions embedded in the paper and it includes two pieces of creative writing.
The Mathematics paper is of one hour duration and includes a variety of questions including problems and Verbal (applied) Reasoning-style mathematical questions.
The mocks also emphasise the key importance of time management techniques. In my many years of experience I have learned that children can experience some stress in an examination setting, no matter how well prepared they are. In the mocks I teach relaxation and positivity visualisation techniques to help the children relax and focus their minds.
The well-being of your child throughout this process is at the forefront of my approach as I care passionately about their welfare and believe an overstressed child will underperform.
