Online Tests, Atom Learning
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Online Tests
If your child is applying to a UK independent school, the first step is usually the Independent Schools Examination Board (ISEB) Common Pre-Test, the UKiset Test or the school’s own test. These are computerised assessments comprising tests in English, maths, verbal and non-verbal reasoning skills.
ISEB Pre-Test
This test is commissioned by Century Tech. It is taken in Year 6 or Year 7 and can only be taken once per academic year. It may be taken at the current school all in one day or on separate dates. The test comprises online tests in English (40 minutes), maths (40 minutes), non-verbal reasoning (30 minutes) and verbal reasoning (25 minutes). If your child is successful in these online tests there may be further assessments set by the school. Students taking this test are typically 10 to 12 years old.
Atom Learning
We are in the unique position among tutors of being able to offer our students free access to Atom Learning’s school platform, Atom Prime. This allows us as tutors to set suitable homework related to the topics taught each week. Atom Learning is a fully adaptive online learning platform with more than 90,000 questions designed by teachers in the U.K. Using this platform alongside tuition with us gives students the ultimate preparation for sitting their pre-tests.
We have used Atom Learning with our own children and students. The feedback from them is that they are motivated by being able to choose an avatar and receive reward badges. The questions are realistic and getting used to answer online questions within a time limit helps to improve speed. The platform is also beneficial because it gives instant feedback on whether a question is right or wrong. If it is wrong it offers an explanation. There is also the ability to attempt topics again if they have not been fully understood.
Atom Nucleus
Cambridge Academic Tuition also has an exclusive offer for the home version of the platform, Atom Nucleus. Most of our students choose the Exam Prep Plus Package which includes unlimited mock tests and standardised age scores. These are especially helpful in identifying areas of strength and weakness. As teachers we can then tailor our lessons so that we make the most difference to your child.
Atom Learning offers tailored online learning and entrance exam preparation for children aged 7–11. 91% of children who used Atom Nucleus got into their top-choice school in 2024. See how it compares your child to other applicants, builds exam confidence and helps them achieve their target schools. Contact info@cambridgeacademictuition.co.uk for your exclusive Atom Learning promotional code.
School Entrance Tests
The website https://schoolentrancetests.com/ has a vast amount of information about entrance exams for UK schools including CAT4 and other tests. I have even written an article for them about the changes to the ISEB Pre-Test. https://schoolentrancetests.com/2022/10/2022-iseb-pre-test/
UKiset
This test is created in conjunction with the CEM examination board and is often used for international students seeking entry to UK independent schools. There are two English language tests. One is a computer-based test and covers reading and listening, the other is a writing task. There are also reasoning tests which include verbal reasoning (problem solving with English words), non-verbal reasoning (problem solving with images, geometry, shapes and sequences) and mathematical reasoning (computation, arithmetic, numbers, quantity and scale). Students taking this test must be between 9.5 and 18 years old.
