The 11+ exam is a pivotal milestone in the UK’s education system, often serving as the gateway to grammar and selective secondary schools. 

Starting at a new school can feel overwhelming for children, especially when it comes to making new friends. However, with the right support and guidance, you can help your child build strong social connections. 

Here are some practical tips to make the process of making friends easier and more enjoyable.

1. Encourage Participation in Extracurricular Activities

Extracurricular activities such as sports, clubs, or art classes provide fantastic opportunities for your child to meet peers with similar interests. Encourage them to get involved in activities they enjoy, as shared experiences often lead to lasting friendships.

2. Practice Social Skills at Home

Help your child feel more confident by practising conversation starters and common social scenarios at home. Role-playing interactions can prepare them to initiate conversations with new classmates and feel more comfortable in social situations.

3. Teach Empathy and Listening Skills

Friendships thrive on both talking and listening. Teach your child the importance of showing interest in others by asking questions and listening attentively. These social skills can help them build deeper, more meaningful connections.

4. Foster a Positive Attitude

Children are quick to pick up on attitudes, so encourage your child to be open, friendly, and kind to others. Remind them that making friends takes time, and reassure them that feeling nervous in a new environment is perfectly normal.

5. Give Them Time

Not every child makes friends immediately, and that’s perfectly okay. Encourage your child to be patient and consistent, and remind them that building friendships is a gradual process.

6. Arrange Playdates or Meet-Ups

If possible, connect with other parents to arrange playdates or meet-ups outside of school. This gives your child the chance to get to know their classmates in a more relaxed, informal setting, helping friendships develop more naturally.

7. Encourage Inclusivity

Teach your child the importance of including others who might feel left out. Being kind and inclusive not only helps them make friends but also boosts their confidence in social situations, creating a positive environment for everyone.

Supporting Your Child’s Social Journey

Helping your child navigate the social world of a new school takes time and patience. With your encouragement and support, they will gradually feel more comfortable and start forming friendships that enrich their school experience. 

Patience, inclusivity, and empathy are key to ensuring that your child builds positive and lasting relationships.

Talha Ghannam

Founding Partner

As a parent, you always want the best for your child, particularly when it comes to their education. But how do you know if hiring a tutor is necessary? 

Every child’s learning journey is unique, and while some may thrive in a traditional classroom, others may benefit from extra support outside of school. In this guide, we’ll explore the signs that suggest your child could benefit from tutoring and how ClassTutor can help them reach their full potential.

Identifying the Need for a Tutor

It’s important to recognise when your child might need additional academic support. Here are some signs that could indicate your child would benefit from tutoring:

1. Falling Behind in School

If your child is struggling to keep up with their schoolwork or consistently receiving lower marks than expected, it may be a sign they need extra help. Some children find it difficult to grasp certain subjects at the same pace as their peers, and small group or one-on-one tutoring can offer the support needed to close those learning gaps and help them catch up.

2. Lack of Confidence in Key Subjects

A lack of confidence in subjects like maths or English can affect your child’s overall attitude towards learning. If they express frustration, anxiety, or disinterest in specific subjects, tutoring can help rebuild that confidence by focusing on their individual needs. Group lessons, in particular, are very useful for confidence building, as students learn from their peers and develop the ability to communicate confidently about the subject.

3. Preparing for Important Exams

Exams such as the 11+ or GCSEs can be daunting for students. If your child is facing a significant exam and you’re concerned about their preparation, tutoring can make a world of difference. A tutor can provide structured revision, past paper practice, sharpen their exam techniques, strengthen key subject areas, and boost their confidence.

4. Time Management and Study Skills

Not all children struggle with the content itself; some may find it challenging to manage their time effectively or study efficiently. A tutor can help your child develop essential study skills, such as time management, organisation, and planning, which will benefit them throughout their academic journey and beyond.

5. Enrichment for High Achievers

Tutoring isn’t just for students who need extra help, it’s also an excellent way to support high achievers who are excelling in school but crave more challenging material. For students who are ready to go beyond the standard curriculum, our specialised higher-ability classes provide enrichment opportunities designed to keep them engaged and motivated. These sessions ensure that advanced learners continue to grow and develop at their own pace, while being exposed to more complex content that pushes their abilities and fosters deeper understanding.

How ClassTutor Can Help

At ClassTutor, we understand that every child has unique strengths and challenges. Our tailored tutoring services are designed to meet your child exactly where they are, whether they need help catching up, preparing for exams, or seeking extra challenges.

• Personalised Learning Plans: Using baseline tests, our tutors create bespoke learning plans that target each student’s needs. Our group classes focus on filling gaps and covering the most misunderstood or poorly taught subjects based on national data, ensuring effective support for every learner.
• One-on-One Support: While most of our classes are small group lessons, we also provide coaching and mentoring to give students individualised attention. This allows them to ask questions and learn at their own pace in a comfortable, supportive environment.
• Exam Preparation: For students facing key exams like the 11+ or GCSEs, our tutors focus on boosting confidence, improving exam techniques, and ensuring thorough preparation.
• Confidence Building: We know that confidence is key to success. By providing patient, personalised support, we help students regain or enhance their confidence in challenging subjects.

When Should You Consider Getting a Tutor?

Knowing when to seek a tutor can be tricky. However, if you’ve noticed any of the signs mentioned earlier, such as your child falling behind, struggling with confidence, or facing upcoming exams, now might be the right time to consider it. Starting early is key, as trying to catch up often yields less effective results compared to building a strong foundation from the outset. 

Tutoring isn’t a last resort; many families view it as a proactive step to give their child the tools and support needed to excel academically and develop lifelong learning skills.

The Benefits of Tutoring at ClassTutor

• Flexibility: We offer fully online tutoring sessions, available in both group and one-on-one formats, to fit your family’s schedule.
• Experienced Tutors: Our team of dedicated tutors, including experienced examiners, are not only subject experts but also skilled at adapting their teaching styles to suit each child’s unique learning preferences.
• Focused Attention: Unlike the busy environment of a classroom, our tutors provide undivided attention, helping your child feel supported and understood.

Ready to Help Your Child Thrive?

At ClassTutor, we believe that every child has the potential to excel with the right support and guidance. Whether your child needs a little extra help catching up, wants to boost their confidence ahead of exams, or is eager to explore new academic challenges, we’re here to provide personalised tutoring that makes a real difference.

If you think tutoring could benefit your child, why not get in touch with us today? Let’s work together to help your child thrive, both in the classroom and beyond.

Talha Ghannam

Founding Partner

Submitting a strong UCAS application is an important step in securing a place at your chosen university. Beyond the personal statement and entrance exams, there are other key components you need to focus on to make your application stand out. Whether it’s choosing the right courses or securing strong references, every detail matters.

This guide will help you make the most of your UCAS application and ensure you’re giving yourself the best chance of success

1. Choosing the Right Courses

One of the first decisions you’ll make when completing your UCAS application is selecting the courses and universities you wish to apply to. It’s important to balance ambition with realism—choose a mix of aspirational and more achievable options. Consider the entry requirements and what each course offers in terms of content, teaching style, and career prospects. Research each university’s strengths in your subject area and how their approach aligns with your academic interests.

📌 Tip: Aim to choose courses that you are passionate about, but also take into account factors such as course content, location, and future career goals.

2. Understand Entry Requirements

Different universities and courses have varying entry requirements, and it’s essential to know these before applying. Some institutions, like Oxbridge and other competitive universities, often require higher A-level grades (such as A*AA or AAA). Make sure you’re aware of any additional requirements, such as entrance exams or interviews, and begin preparing for those early.

📌 Tip: Make a list of all entry requirements for your selected courses and ensure you’re on track to meet them, including any necessary entrance exams.

3. Securing Strong References

Your references are a vital part of your UCAS application. Most universities expect at least one academic reference from a teacher who knows you well. Choose someone who can speak to your academic abilities, work ethic, and personal growth. Before asking a teacher or tutor for a reference, be sure to provide them with any relevant information, such as your personal statement or specific achievements, so they can write a well-rounded and personalised reference.

📌 Tip: Ask for your reference well in advance to give your teacher plenty of time to write a detailed and thoughtful recommendation.

4. Writing a Convincing Personal Statement

Your personal statement is your opportunity to showcase your passion for your chosen subject and highlight the unique qualities you’ll bring to the university. Be sure to link your academic interests to your extracurricular activities and demonstrate how your experiences have prepared you for university-level study. Show genuine enthusiasm for the subject and reflect on how your personal growth aligns with your academic aspirations.

📌 Tip: Your personal statement should be well-organised, authentic, and tailored to your chosen courses.

Need help writing a compelling personal statement? Check out our detailed guide on How to Craft the Perfect Personal Statement for Oxbridge or Redbrick Universities.

5. Balancing Your Five Course Choices

UCAS allows you to apply for up to five courses, and it’s essential to balance your choices wisely. Aim for a mix of ambitious options alongside courses that align more closely with your predicted grades. Be strategic—if you’re applying for highly competitive courses at Oxbridge or top Redbrick universities, make sure your other choices are a little less competitive but still aligned with your interests and career goals.

📌 Tip: Research the reputation of each university’s department in your subject area, as well as their graduate employment rates, to make informed decisions.

6. Double-Check Key Information

Before submitting your UCAS application, double-check all key information, from personal details to course codes. Ensure that you’ve met all deadlines and provided all necessary information, including your qualifications, personal statement, and references. A small mistake could delay or affect the success of your application.

📌 Tip: Review your entire application multiple times and ask a teacher or trusted mentor to proofread it before submission.

7. Be Mindful of Deadlines

Meeting deadlines is crucial when applying to universities through UCAS. While the standard deadline for most undergraduate courses is in January, Oxbridge, medicine, dentistry, and veterinary science courses have an earlier deadline in October. Missing these deadlines could result in your application not being considered, so it’s essential to plan well in advance.

📌 Tip: Mark all relevant UCAS deadlines on a calendar or planner, and aim to submit your application a few days before the official deadline to avoid any last-minute issues.

8. Prepare for Interviews or Further Assessments

Some universities, particularly Oxbridge and other highly competitive institutions, may invite you for an interview or require you to take additional assessments. Be prepared by researching the interview process for each university and practising your interview skills. Know your personal statement inside out, as interviewers may ask questions based on what you’ve written.

📌 Tip: If you’re invited for an interview, practise answering common questions and discussing your subject in-depth with teachers or tutors to build your confidence.

See More in This Series:

Looking for more tips and guidance on the university application process? Check out the other posts in our Navigating Top UK University Applications series:

• How to Apply to Oxbridge or Redbrick Universities Successfully
• How to Craft the Perfect Personal Statement for Oxbridge or Redbrick Universities
• How to Ace University Entrance Exams: TSA, LNAT & More

These posts will help you tackle each aspect of your application with confidence, from writing a standout personal statement to excelling in entrance exams and perfecting your UCAS submission.

Tamin Khalil

Founding Partner

For students applying to competitive universities like Oxford, Cambridge, or top Redbrick institutions, entrance exams can be one of the most challenging aspects of the application process. Exams like the TSA (Thinking Skills Assessment), LNAT (Law National Aptitude Test), and others test your critical thinking, problem-solving, and subject-specific knowledge.

In this guide, we’ll cover practical tips and strategies to help you prepare for these challenging tests and improve your chances of success.

1. Understand the Format and Content

Each entrance exam is different, so it’s important to familiarise yourself with the specific format and content of the test you’re taking. The TSA, for example, focuses on problem-solving and critical thinking, while the LNAT tests both essay writing and multiple-choice comprehension skills. If you’re taking subject-specific exams such as the MAT (Mathematics Admissions Test) or the BMAT (Biomedical Admissions Test), understanding the type of questions and topics is essential for effective preparation.

📌 Tip: Visit the official website of each exam for detailed information on format, timing, and the types of questions you’ll face.

2. Create a Study Plan

The earlier you start preparing, the better your chances of success. Break your preparation into manageable steps, focusing on improving critical skills over time rather than cramming at the last minute. Set aside regular study sessions to practise specific types of questions and work on timing.

📌 Tip: Create a study timetable that fits around your schoolwork, dedicating time each week to practise entrance exam questions.

3. Practise with Past Papers

One of the most effective ways to prepare for entrance exams is to practise with past papers. This not only helps you get used to the format but also allows you to assess your timing and identify areas for improvement. Many entrance exams are time-pressured, so practising under exam conditions will help you manage your time better.

📌 Tip: Start by doing untimed practice papers, focusing on accuracy, then gradually introduce time limits to simulate real exam conditions.

4. Focus on Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving

Most entrance exams, especially those like the TSA and LNAT, are designed to test your ability to think critically and solve problems under pressure. This means that rote memorisation won’t help you as much as honing your logical thinking and reasoning abilities. Consider using resources like logic puzzles, critical thinking guides, or even brain-training apps to help sharpen your skills.

📌 Tip: When practising critical thinking questions, focus on identifying patterns and processes rather than just getting the right answer. This will help you break down complex problems quickly during the exam.

Strong problem-solving skills aren’t just for entrance exams; they’re also key for Oxbridge and Redbrick applications. Learn more in our post on How to Apply to Oxbridge or Redbrick Universities Successfully.

5. Refine Your Essay-Writing Skills

For tests like the LNAT, which includes an essay section, you need to develop clear, concise writing skills. The essay isn’t just about showing your knowledge, it’s also about demonstrating your ability to form a structured argument and express it clearly. Practise writing essays on various topics, focusing on planning your argument, using evidence to back up your points, and avoiding waffle.

📌 Tip: Aim to write essays within the time limits set by the exam, and ask a teacher or tutor to provide feedback on your writing.

6. Develop Time Management Skills

Entrance exams are often tight on time, and one of the most challenging aspects can be completing the paper within the given time limit. As you practise with past papers, focus on developing time management strategies. Learn how to pace yourself, know when to move on from a difficult question, and how to maximise the time you spend on easier sections.

📌 Tip: Divide the exam time by the number of questions, giving yourself a set time limit per question. If you find yourself spending too long on one question, move on and return to it later if time allows.

7. Stay Calm and Focused

On the day of the exam, nerves are inevitable, but staying calm and focused is crucial to performing your best. Make sure you’re well-rested and have a clear plan for managing stress during the exam. Practising mindfulness or deep-breathing techniques in the lead-up to the test can help you stay centred on the day.

📌 Tip: Arrive at the exam centre early, so you’re not rushed. Take deep breaths before starting and remember that staying calm will help you think more clearly.

8. Seek Help from a Tutor

If you’re struggling with certain sections of the exam or feel unsure about how to approach your preparation, seeking help from a tutor can be invaluable. A tutor with experience in entrance exams can help you target your weak points, provide feedback on practice papers, and offer tips for managing exam stress.

📌 Tip: ClassTutor offers specialised tutoring for university entrance exams, helping students improve their performance with personalised guidance and support.

See More in This Series:

Looking for more tips and guidance on the university application process? Check out the other posts in our Navigating Top UK University Applications series:

• How to Apply to Oxbridge or Redbrick Universities Successfully
• How to Craft the Perfect Personal Statement for Oxbridge or Redbrick Universities
• Maximising Your UCAS Application: From References to Course Choices

These posts will help you tackle each aspect of your application with confidence, from writing a standout personal statement to excelling in entrance exams and perfecting your UCAS submission.

Tamin Khalil

Founding Partner

Writing a personal statement can feel overwhelming, especially when applying to prestigious universities like Oxford, Cambridge, or Redbrick institutions such as Birmingham, Manchester, and Leeds. Your personal statement is your opportunity to showcase your passion for your subject, academic ability, and the unique qualities you will bring to the university. But how can you make sure yours stands out from the crowd?

Here’s a guide to crafting the perfect personal statement for Oxbridge and Redbrick universities, helping you highlight the best version of yourself.

1. Start with a Strong Opening

The opening of your personal statement should grab the reader’s attention. Admissions tutors read thousands of applications, so your introduction needs to stand out. Begin with a personal anecdote, a thought-provoking question, or a powerful statement that conveys your passion for your chosen subject. Avoid clichés like “I’ve always wanted to study…” and instead focus on what genuinely sparked your interest in the subject.

📌 Tip: Write several versions of your opening and choose the one that feels the most authentic and interesting.

2. Demonstrate Your Passion Through Experience

Admissions tutors want to see evidence that you’re genuinely passionate about your subject. This means going beyond your school curriculum and engaging with the subject in various ways. Include examples of extra-curricular reading, relevant projects, or independent research you’ve done. Mention any courses, podcasts, or lectures you’ve attended that have deepened your understanding.

📌 Tip: Keep a list of what you read, listen to, or attend, and think critically about how each experience has influenced your passion for the subject.

Remember, engaging deeply with your subject is crucial not just for your personal statement but also for your interview. For more on this, check out How to Apply to Oxbridge or Redbrick Universities Successfully.

3. Highlight Key Skills with Examples

Instead of simply stating that you have certain skills, show them through examples. If you claim to be a good problem-solver, provide an example where you applied this skill, such as solving a challenging problem during a school project or internship. Admissions tutors want to see concrete evidence of your abilities, so always back up your claims with real-life experiences.

📌 Tip: Use specific examples that highlight skills, such as critical thinking, leadership, teamwork, or time management.

4. Tie Your Extra-Curricular Activities to Your Subject

It’s not enough to mention that you play sports, an instrument, or volunteer; admissions tutors want to know how these activities have contributed to your personal growth and how they relate to your academic interests. For example, if you’ve led a sports team, discuss how that experience developed your leadership or time management skills and how those skills might benefit your studies.

📌 Tip: Choose 1-2 key extra-curricular activities and focus on their relevance to your academic goals rather than listing everything you’ve done.

Balancing your extracurriculars with academic performance is a key part of a successful application. Learn more in our post on Maximising Your UCAS Application.

5. Reflect on Your Experiences

One of the best ways to stand out in your personal statement is by showing self-awareness and reflection. Don’t just list what you’ve done, take the time to reflect on how those experiences have shaped your academic and personal development. What did you learn from each experience? How did it affect your perspective on your chosen subject?

📌 Tip: Use reflective language like “This experience taught me…” or “because of this project, I gained a deeper understanding of…”

6. Tailor Your Personal Statement for Oxbridge or Redbrick Universities

If you’re applying to Oxbridge, your personal statement should reflect a deep academic focus, critical thinking skills, and intellectual curiosity. Admissions tutors at Oxbridge want to see that you are ready to engage with rigorous, subject-specific discussions. For Redbrick universities, you can balance this academic focus on examples of well-roundedness, including your extracurricular achievements and leadership roles.

📌 Tip: Research your chosen universities’ expectations and tailor your personal statement to reflect the specific qualities they value.

7. End with a Forward-Looking Conclusion

Your conclusion is your last chance to leave a lasting impression. Use it to summarise your enthusiasm for the subject and what you hope to achieve by studying it at university. You can also mention any career aspirations or how you plan to contribute to university life, whether through academic work or extra-curricular activities.

📌 Tip:  Avoid repeating what you’ve already said; instead, use your conclusion to convey excitement about the future and the opportunities ahead.

8. Proofread and Refine

Once you’ve written your personal statement, make sure to proofread it carefully. Look out for spelling or grammatical errors and ensure that your statement flows logically from one section to the next. It’s also helpful to ask a teacher, tutor, or trusted mentor to review your statement and offer feedback.

📌 Tip: Give yourself plenty of time for revisions. It’s normal to go through multiple drafts before you get it just right.

See More in This Series:

Looking for more tips and guidance on the university application process? Check out the other posts in our Navigating Top UK University Applications series. 

Remember, it’s crucial to allow plenty of time for review and modification of your application to ensure every section truly reflects your strengths and readiness for university:

• How to Apply to Oxbridge or Redbrick Universities Successfully
• How to Ace University Entrance Exams: TSA, LNAT & More
• Maximising Your UCAS Application: From References to Course Choices

These posts will help you tackle each aspect of your application with confidence, from writing a standout personal statement to excelling in entrance exams and perfecting your UCAS submission.

Tamin Khalil

Founding Partner