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A-Level and IB

Choosing Between IB and A-Levels: Factors to Consider for Optimal University Preparation

At Think Tutors, we proudly offer expert guidance in both the International Baccalaureate and A-Level programs. With our refined understanding of the nuances inherent in both curricula, students can expect unparalleled support and mentorship to achieve their academic potential in their respective courses and examinations.

 

Comparing the Similarities: IB vs A-Levels

 

Both curricula are renowned for presenting a challenging and rigorous syllabus that prepares students for the rigors of university-level education. Both the International Baccalaureate and A-Levels demand a comprehensive evaluation of students’ grasp of the course material through exams administered at the conclusion of the course. The ultimate goal of both programs is to foster and refine critical thinking, autonomous learning, and research competencies in students.

 

IB vs A-Levels: Key Differences to Consider

 

Availability:

 

The IB program is offered in both the UK and in international schools, whereas A-Levels are only available in the UK and countries affiliated with the British education system. As such, the IB may be more suitable for students who happen to travel frequently or are living outside of the UK on a permanent basis.

 

Curriculum:

 

The IB offers a broader curriculum that includes six subjects from different disciplines, whereas the A-Level program is more subject-specific and allows students to study up to four subjects in depth; however, most students choose to drop a subject after their first year of studying.

 

This element of the IB, understandably, makes the IB considerably harder than A-Levels, and so it should be chosen with this in mind. Students taking the IB must choose subjects from the following categories: Maths, Science, Arts, Individuals and Societies, Language Acquisition and, Language and Literature.

 

The IB’s breadth will appeal to those who are exceptionally talented and/or are yet to realise what they want to specialise in at university or at work. Whereas A-Levels may be preferable for students who wish to study their subjects in depth without the distractions of other subjects in which they may have little interest.

 

Assessment:

 

In the IB program, students are evaluated on both in-school assignments and exams, in addition to an extended essay, a theory of knowledge (ToK) course, and a creativity, activity, and service (CAS) project. Whereas the A-Level program assesses a student’s ability through coursework and examinations.

 

Our elite tutors possess a wealth of knowledge in both the IB and A-Level systems and are well-versed in the intricacies of crafting a personalised academic plan that will enable students to attain success. Beyond instilling mastery of subject matter, our tutors offer invaluable insights into optimal revision strategies, time management techniques, and university application strategies, ensuring that each and every student receives comprehensive and holistic guidance towards achieving exceptional grades.

 

Emphasis:

 

The IB program places more emphasis on creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving, while the A-Level program is more exam-oriented. A-Levels come with a more structured syllabus, whereas the IB encourages freedom of thought, independent learning, and depth of learning through group and individual research.

 

Scoring System:

 

With very different scoring systems, it can be confusing for parents when trying to understand how the IB is scored. The IB uses a points system on a scale from 1 (the lowest grade) to 7 (the highest grade). The highest score a student can achieve is 45 points, yet 42 points can be achieved from 6 subject choices, with 3 points awarded for the three core programs. On the other hand, the highest a student can score in their A-Levels is A*A*A*, with the exception of some who are able to score A*A*A*A!

 

IB and A-Level at UK Independent Schools

 

Several schools in the UK provide both A-Levels and IB. Charterhouse, Bedford, Wellington, Cheltenham Ladies College, Sevenoaks, Oakham, and Bradfield College are just a few that have a proven track record of securing excellent IB scores. For more information on how to successfully enter the aforementioned schools, please visit our school admissions page, or alternatively, contact us.

 

Conclusion

 

In conclusion, both the IB and A-Level programs offer students a challenging and rigorous education that prepares them for university-level education. However, the availability, curriculum, assessment, emphasis, and scoring systems of each program differ. So students should carefully consider these differences when deciding which program is most suitable for them.

 

Ultimately, the choice between IB and A-Level will depend on personal preferences, academic strengths, and career goals of the individual.

 

Contact Think Tutors

 

Organising tuition or mentoring with one of Think Tutors’ elite tutors or mentors is an excellent way to secure excellent IB and A-Level grades. We enhance performance through repetition, careful preparation, and confidence building. Please contact us if you are interested in finding an IB or A-Level tutor, or our Education Director, to secure advice on which program is best for you or your child.

 

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School Admissions

Top 5 London Independent Day Senior Schools

St. Paul’s Girls’ School

 

St. Paul’s Girls’ School (SPGS) is an exceptional independent day school for girls aged 11-18, located in Hammersmith, London. Established in 1904 to complement St. Paul’s School, SPGS is now considered as one of the best independent schools in the UK.

 

Their students’ accomplishments are impressive, with 99.5% achieving A-Level results A*-B and 97.9% earning grades 9-7 at GCSE. In 2022, 37 of their students progressed to Oxford or Cambridge, with 22 choosing to study overseas at US and Canadian universities. Many notable alumnae have emerged from the school who have excelled in science, politics, and the arts, such as Barbara Moore, Naiza Khan and Rachel Weisz.

 

St. Paul’s Girls’ School has a unique house system, where students are divided into six houses named after influential women in history, including Austen, Curie, Franklin, Nightingale, Pankhurst, and Seacole. The house system encourages friendly competition and promotes a sense of community and teamwork among students. With a close-knit community and average class sizes of around 20, SPGS offers a personalised education approach that emphasises character development, personal responsibility, and integrity.

 

St Paul’s School

 

St. Paul’s School is a highly regarded school for boys aged 7-18, located in Barnes, London. Students of St. Paul’s enjoy not only a world-class education but also a truly global outlook. The school was founded in 1509 by John Colet, a Dean of St. Paul’s Cathedral, and it has a long history of academic excellence with a particular focus on the humanities.

 

In 2022, at A Level and Pre-U 70% of grades awarded were A* (or equivalent) and 96% were A* or A (or equivalent). Furthermore, 76% of GCSE grades were at grade 9 and 94% were grade 8 or 9.

 

Aided by a 100-minute-long lunch ‘break’, students are encouraged to learn and develop outside of the classroom on a daily basis. The school has a strong tradition of rowing, and its boat club is one of the most successful in the UK, having won numerous championships and producing many Olympic rowers, most notably Tom Charlton and Simon Dennis. St. Paul’s School also has a fantastic music program, and its chapel choir is considered one of the best in the country. The School also has a strong drama programme and produces several plays and musicals each year.

 

St. Pauls is known for its impressive campus. It occupies 45 acres of its very own space right beside the River Thames which includes a combination of historic buildings and modern facilities, such as the newly built science and performing arts centre.

 

King’s College School

 

King’s College School (KCS) was founded in 1829 and is located in Wimbledon, London. Renowned for its academic excellence, the school is a consistent top performer among British schools, excelling particularly in mathematics and the sciences.

 

The school has an impressive track record of progressing students to top-tier universities, a testament to its dedication to educational excellence. 68% of A-Level results were A* and 94% were A* or A in 2022. In GCSEs, 73% were awarded a grade 9 and 90% were grade 8 or 9.

 

The school’s outstanding amenities further distinguish it, featuring a state-of-the-art performing arts centre, a modern sports complex, and a dedicated STEM centre. These facilities aid in promoting an all-rounded education, designed to facilitate the holistic development of its students.

 

King’s College School is committed to providing a broad range of extracurricular activities aimed at enabling students to explore their interests and talents, with options in music, drama, art, sports, and community service. A unique house system further encourages this, fostering togetherness and healthy competition among students.

 

Westminster School

 

Westminster, with its rich history and proximity to the pillars of British politics and religion, the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey, combines tradition with a progressive mindset. Since 1394, the school has adapted to modern times while remaining respectful of its heritage and longstanding traditions.

 

98% of students achieved grades 7-9 at GCSE, with 25 students achieving straight 9s. Outstanding grades continue at A-Level, with 70% of students achieving straight A*s and 98% of Westminster students awarded A*-B.

 

The school has a unique connection to the British monarchy. Their choir performs at many state occasions, including royal weddings and funerals, and is internationally renowned for its exceptional musical talent. Equally noteworthy is its esteemed ‘election’ system, an age-old tradition dating back to the 14th century, which is still upheld today. Each year, a select group of students are chosen to become Queen’s Scholars, based on their academic prowess and potential, thereby enabling them to enjoy a range of exclusive privileges, including financial support and access to special events.

 

Despite its aristocratic associations, Westminster School is firmly committed to fostering a culture of intellectual independence and impartiality, empowering every student to think freely and critically. Graduates of the school leave as well-rounded individuals, enriched by a broad education that extends far beyond academics and encompasses spiritual, moral, and political engagement.

 

City of London School

 

The City of London School (CLS) is an esteemed, private independent day school for boys situated in the very heart of London’s financial district, within the City of London. Founded in 1834 by the City of London Corporation to provide an exceptional education to the sons of London’s eminent merchants and bankers, CLS has acquired a reputation as one of the most distinguished schools in the UK, attracting discerning students from across the globe.

 

In 2022, 66% of students achieved grade 9 at GCSE, with a further 86% achieving grades 8 or 9. In A-Levels, 60% of students received an A*, and 91% of CLS students received an A* or an A. 26 of their students were confirmed for places at the Universities of Oxford or Cambridge, with 95% accepted at Russell Group universities.

 

In addition to this academic excellence, CLS fosters a thriving extracurricular environment, with a record of excellence in various sports, including cricket, football, rugby, rowing, and more. The school’s dedication to musical excellence, with a particular emphasis on classical music, is also longstanding, and its symphony orchestra and choir are renowned. Indeed, many students have pursued successful careers in the performing arts thanks to CLS’s distinguished programmes, such as Daniel Radcliffe and Joe Strummer.

 

Contact Think Tutors

 

Organising tuition or mentoring with one of Think Tutors’ elite tutors or mentors is an excellent way to gain an advantage in the admissions process for any of these schools. With tutors who are experts in independent school admissions, we ensure entrance at 7/8+, 11+, 13+ and 16+, in addition to any other entry point. We enhance performance through repetition, careful preparation, and confidence building. From guidance on schools, to interview practise, private tuition with us leaves no stone unturned. Please contact us if you are interested in finding a tutor to help your child enter the school of their choice and succeed in their studies.

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GCSE

How To Support Your Child During Their GCSEs

Parents occupy a critical position in a child’s education. This article will delve into the methods by which a parent may provide support within the domestic sphere, a dedicated study environment, and the advantages of securing the services of a private tutor to mitigate the rigors of exams and coursework, ensuring the ultimate success of a student.

 

Learning Environment and Support

 

Establishing a tranquil and suitable study environment for a student during their GCSE exams is of paramount importance. This entails creating a designated area for learning, free from any distractions or interruptions, be it an entire room or a corner of a room. This space should be illuminated appropriately and equipped with all necessary resources, such as academic texts, writing implements, and a computer or tablet.

 

One of the most efficacious means of supporting a child during their GCSE exams is through active involvement in their academic pursuits. This entails awareness of their progress, collaborating to set attainable objectives, and closely monitoring their advancement towards achieving them. Furthermore, being accessible to answer any queries they may have and providing verbal support during challenging periods can have a substantial impact on their academic performance.

 

Private Tutoring

 

The services of a private tutor can prove to be a valuable asset in supporting your child during their GCSE exams. Personalised instruction can facilitate a deeper comprehension of complex subjects and the development of efficient study techniques. Our periodic reports, delivered weekly or monthly, provide constructive criticism and direction, enabling our students to make substantial progress in certain areas. Furthermore, a private tutor can help to foster self-assurance and motivation, essential elements for success on the GCSE exams.

 

In our fast-paced society, many guardians or parents may find it challenging to ensure their child is fully prepared for the GCSE exams. Securing the assistance of a private tutor is an astute solution to this challenge. With a dedicated team of professionals and experts in their respective fields, we can guarantee that any student attains their best results and is fully equipped for their next academic milestone.

 

Contact Think Tutors

 

Organising tuition or mentoring with one of Think Tutors’ elite tutors or mentors is an excellent way to gain outstanding GCSE grades. Each with over five years of experience, our tutors are adept at enhancing performance through repetition, careful preparation, and confidence building.

 

We provide hourly, full-time, and homeschooling tuition, ensuring that high calibre learning can take place anywhere at any time, offering either in-person or GCSE online tuition. Please contact us if you are interested in finding a private tutor to help your child feel confident and succeed in their studies.

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GCSE

GCSE Maths Tuition

Unfortunately, GCSE Maths is a common source of anxiety for many students, and it can contribute to overall GCSE anxiety. Fortunately, Think Tutors offers bespoke GCSE and IGCSE Maths tuition to students of varying aptitudes. Our tutors are equipped to diagnose any areas of difficulty and impart personalised instruction, ensuring that not only are complex concepts acquired, but also thoroughly comprehended.

 

This insight presents a trio of instances wherein private tuition can enhance a student’s proficiency in Maths. However, there are numerous additional benefits to be garnered. For a more comprehensive understanding, please do not hesitate to contact us.

 

One-to-one tuition

 

One of the most significant advantages of GCSE Maths tuition is the ability to provide a personalised educational experience, with each student receiving individual attention and tailored teaching. This approach enables learners to progress at their own pace and concentrate on areas of difficulty, making it an especially advantageous option for those facing challenges with particular concepts. In contrast to the classroom setting, our Maths tutors are equipped with a repertoire of diverse teaching techniques, elevating the student’s engagement and fostering a more fulfilling relationship with the subject matter, ultimately resulting in improved retention and grades.

 

Feedback and Assessment

 

At Think Tutors, we understand the importance of ongoing assessment and feedback, enabling both the student and their guardians to monitor their academic advancement and recognise areas for growth. This clarity promotes confidence and empowers our Maths tutors to refine their teaching strategies to better suit the student’s requirements, leading to more focused and efficient revision. By optimising the learning process, we enable students to allocate their time and resources effectively, supporting their overall success in their GCSE subjects.

 

Versatile Learning

 

Finally, Think Tutors can offer GCSE Maths tuition online, in-person or through a combination of both. This allows students to choose the format that best suits their needs and learning style. This level of flexibility ensures that their academic progress is consistent and aligned with their aspirations, allowing them to consistently meet their targets and expectations.

 

Contact Us

 

Organising tuition or mentoring with one of Think Tutors’ elite tutors or mentors is an excellent way to gain outstanding GCSE grades. Each with over five years of experience, our tutors are adept at enhancing performance through repetition, careful preparation, and confidence building.

 

Please contact us if you are interested in finding a tutor to help you or your child feel confident and succeed in their studies.

Categories
A-Level and IB

Choosing A Level Subjects

Interests and Passions:

 

The first step in selecting A-Level subjects for a student should be to consider their interests and passions. If the student has a genuine interest in the subject, they are more likely to enjoy studying it and thus have an increased motivation to revise and work hard. Students should ask themselves questions such as, “Do I prefer the method of mathematical subjects or the creativity and critical thinking involved in the humanities or art?”

 

It is important for the student to choose subjects that they are genuinely interested in, as targets and objectives will be more easily achievable.

 

University Requirements:

 

The second step is researching the academic requirements of the universities they are interested in applying to. For example, if a student is interested in pursuing Medicine, it would be wise to choose subjects such as Biology and Chemistry. Similarly, if the student is interested in studying Law, subjects such as History or Politics should be chosen, in addition to A-Level Law. Universities have different requirements for the A-Level subjects they accept for certain courses. To find out more, The Which Universities Guide is a great resource for this, as is the UCAS Course Finder website.

 

Career Aspirations:

 

The third step for a student is to consider their future career aspirations. Although it may feel distant at the time, different A-Level subjects do indeed lead to different career paths. An aspiring Nuclear Physicist, for example, would be better placed having studied Physics and Maths, as opposed to History and English. This is not to say that a student cannot be a cross-disciplinarian, rather, that if they have a clear goal from the start, choosing a relevant A-Level certainly sets a strong foundation.

 

A daunting prospect. However, research the various career paths that are available, speak to professionals already in the industry and reach out to family and friends; perhaps they will be able to impart some wisdom on this decision.

 

Difficulty of the Subject:

 

The fourth step is for a student to consider the difficulty of the A-Level subjects they have in mind. Ultimately, students want to place themselves in the strongest position possible when it comes to applying for future study or employment. For example, if a student finds it difficult to read for prolonged periods of time, it would be wise to avoid choosing a subject such as English Literature.

 

This doesn’t mean don’t challenge yourself; self-improvement is a key part of confidence building. At times, a student must choose a subject they find complex for a course they wish to study at university or to fulfil a specific career goal. If this is the case, it may be wise to enlist the help of a private tutor to private tutor to safeguard success.

 

Summary:

 

In conclusion, choosing the right A-Level subjects is a vital step for students, as it will determine their future career paths and university options. It is advantageous to consider one’s interests and passions, future career aspirations, the academic requirements of universities, and the difficulty level of the subjects. With scrupulous attention and research, students will be able to choose the right A-Level subjects to support their goals and set them on the path to success.

 

Contact Think Tutors:

 

To ensure that you are making the best choices for your A-Level subjects, we recommend seeking guidance from one of Think Tutors’ elite tutors or mentors. We are able to provide clarity and direction when deciding on A-Level subject options. Please do not hesitate to  contact us if you are interested in finding a tutor to help you or your child to discuss their options for A-levels or any other inquiry.

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University Admissions

Oxford Colleges: Christ Church

The Grounds: 

 

One of the most striking features of Christ Church is its stunning architecture and beautiful grounds. The college’s main quadrangle, known as Tom Quad, is one of the largest in Oxford and is surrounded by magnificent medieval buildings. The college’s Great Hall, which dates back to the 16th century, is particularly impressive and serves as the setting for many college events and ceremonies (in addition to the inspiration of the Hogwarts Dining Hall in Harry Potter). The college’s chapel is also a must-see, with its striking stained glass windows and ornate decoration. 

 

Admissions Statistics:  

 

According to available data from 2019-2021, 56% of Christ Church’s intake was state-educated versus 46% from independent schools; and 49% of those admitted were female versus 51% as male. Between 2019 and 2021, the college received 944 state applications, admitting 165 (representing a 17% success rate) as well as 527 applications from independent schools, admitting 130 (representing a 25% success rate). 

 

Notable Alumni:  

 

Christ Church has a long and proud tradition of educating some of the brightest and most accomplished individuals in the world. Famous alumni include philosopher and mathematician Lewis Carroll as well as over thirteen British prime ministers, including Sir Robert Peel and William Ewart Gladstone. The college has also been home to many notable scholars, researchers, and artists, including physicist and Nobel laureate Roger Penrose and Academy Award-winning actor Riz Ahmed. 

 

Inside Perspective: 

 

Life at Christ Church can be obscenely picturesque. Boasting everything from the real-life Harry Potter dining hall to cattle-filled riverside meadows, a Renaissance picture gallery, to a Gothic cathedral, ‘the house’ is everything you might imagine Oxford to be. In addition to its aesthetics, Christ Church offers a wide range of extracurricular activities and clubs, including music, drama, and sports. The college also has a strong tradition of rowing, and its boat club is one of the most successful in Oxford. 

 

Should you Apply?  

 

Overall, Christ Church College at the University of Oxford is a truly special place, offering a world-class education in a beautiful and historic setting. The college’s combination of academic excellence, stunning architecture, and vibrant community make it a truly unique and rewarding place to study. 

 

To apply to Christ Church, it is best to start the application process as soon as possible. Applications open in May but you will not be able to submit an application until early September. Applying to any Oxbridge college can be a complex and uncertain process, especially without the right guidance. With tutors who are experts in Oxbridge admissions, we enhance performance through repetition, careful preparation, and confidence building.

 

Contact Think Tutors 

 

Organising tuition or mentoring with one of Think Tutors’ elite tutors or mentors is an excellent way to gain an advantage in the application process for university. With tutors who are experts in Oxbridge admissions, we enhance performance through repetition, careful preparation, and confidence building. From guidance on halls, to interview practise, private tuition with us leaves no rock unturned. Please contact us if you are interested in finding a tutor to help your child enter the Oxford college of their choice and succeed in their studies. 

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GCSE

GCSE examinations in 2023

This insight highlights noteworthy information regarding some GCSE subjects, the gradual return to pre-pandemic examinations, and the importance of high calibre exam preparation. Elite tutors and mentors are an excellent way to ease the stresses and anxieties surrounding GCSE examinations and produce outstanding results. For more information, please head to our hourly tuition page or contact us. 

 

Pre-Pandemic Standards Resume

 

In 2023, the GCSE examination process will undergo some significant changes. In an effort to modernise and return the process to pre-pandemic standards, the UK government has implemented a series of reforms that will affect the way that GCSEs are structured and assessed. 

 

These changes include the eradication of advanced information that was given to students who took their exams in 2022. Ofqual announced that they had decided to return to pre-covid examinations to allow students to show what they could do in exams. However, students taking GCSEs in 2023 will receive a similar level of protection in the marking process as the 2022 cohort. As a result, the 2023 cohort will be protected in grading terms if their examination performance is slightly lower than before the pandemic. Therefore, a student who would have achieved a grade 9 before the pandemic will just be as likely to get a 9 this summer, even with a dip in exam performance. 

 

Subject Information

 

After more than 90% of respondents (including students and teachers) supported the decision, formulae sheets will be provided to students sitting their exams in Maths, Physics and Combined Sciences. There has also been the decision to remove the requirement for exam boards to include unfamiliar vocabulary in GCSE modern foreign languages for the examinations in 2023. 

 

GCSE Preparation

 

For many students, the GCSE examination process can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. It is important that students are well-prepared and have the support they need to succeed. This includes access to high-quality teaching and resources, as well as the guidance of tutors, parents, and other trusted adults. 

 

In the months leading up to the GCSE examinations, it is essential that students focus on their studies and take advantage of any support and resources that are available to them. With hard work and determination, they can achieve the best possible results and set themselves up for success in the next phase of their education. 

 

At Think Tutors, we have an exceptional record of improving students’ academic performance in the run-up to their examinations. With GCSEs still a few months away, now is the perfect time to enlist the help of our private tutors and mentors. 

 

Contact Think Tutors

 

Organising tuition or mentoring with one of Think Tutors’ elite tutors or mentors is an excellent way to gain outstanding GCSE grades. Each with over five years of experience, our tutors are adept at enhancing performance through repetition, careful preparation, and confidence building. 

 

We provide hourly, full-time, and homeschooling tuition, ensuring that high calibre learning can take place anywhere at any time, offering either in-person or online tuition. Please contact us if you are interested in finding a tutor to help your child feel confident and succeed in their studies. 

Categories
School Admissions

11 Plus Assessments: The Difference Between CAT 4, ISEB, and CEM Tests

CAT 4, ISEB, and CEM assessments are all different types of standardised tests that are used to assess the cognitive abilities of children and young people. This insight provides information on all three, which are used by independent schools to determine whether a child has the intellectual ability and potential to enter their school.

 

If you would like to learn more about how Think Tutors can help your child through these assessments, please feel free to get in touch.

 

CAT 4

 

CAT 4, or the Cognitive Abilities Test 4, is a test that is designed to measure a child’s cognitive abilities in the areas of verbal, nonverbal, and quantitative and spatial reasoning. The test is suitable for children aged 7 to 16 and is often used in schools to identify children who may be gifted and talented or who may need additional support in their learning. The test is taken when the child is in Year 6 (aged 10 or 11), and along with assessing academic performance, it can also determine which child will receive scholarships or bursaries.

 

It is considered that a score between 89-111 are in the average bracket, yet the top independent schools look for scores of around 125. The test is a 72 minute timed assessment, taken under exam conditions, presented in a multiple choice question format.

 

At Think Tutors, we amplify potential and carve the path for success in all individuals. For more information regarding independent school bursaries or scholarships, please feel free to get in touch with us. Our network spans over a number of elite UK independent schools, and with a team of dedicated tutors, we can put you or your child in the best possible position to thrive.

 

ISEB

 

ISEB, or the Independent Schools Examinations Board, is an independent organization that provides a range of tests and assessments for children in independent schools in the UK. These tests include the Common Pre-Test, which is designed to assess the cognitive abilities of children aged 7 to 13, and the Common Entrance Exam, which is used to assess the academic ability of children aged 13 to 14 who are seeking to enter independent schools.

 

The ISEB Common Pre-Test is used by many independent schools such as Charterhouse, Eton, Dulwich, Harrow, Stowe and Tonbridge. All use this as a means to test children’s ability in English, Mathematics, Verbal and Non Verbal Reasoning and is usually taken in Year 6. The tests are online and adaptive in a multi-choice format. To find more on the ISEB Pre-Test, please have a read of one of our previous insights here.

 

CEM

 

CEM, or the Centre for Evaluation and Monitoring, is a research and development organization based at Durham University in the UK. CEM provides a range of assessments and tests for children and young people, including the Cognitive Abilities Test (CAT), which is similar to CAT 4 but is suitable for children aged 5 to 16.

 

From September 2023 and onwards, CEM will change from a paper-based test to an online assessment. Currently, CEM assesses Reading Comprehension, Mathematics, Verbal Reasoning and Non Verbal reasoning. The papers take 45 minutes each to complete and smaller subsections within each paper are separately timed. Unlike the CAT 4 and ISEB, their questions are non-adaptive and as a consequence, are less predictable than the aforementioned. Independent schools that currently use CEM are Henrietta Barnett, St Paul’s Girls’ and Eton.

 

Overall

 

In summary, CAT 4, ISEB and CEM assessments are all different types of standardised tests that are used to assess the cognitive abilities of children and young people. While they may have some similarities, they are designed to meet different needs and are used for different purposes. It is important to understand that all schools assess their prospective pupils differently; therefore, it is wise to research your school of choice testing methods.

 

Ultimately, it is imperative that your child performs well in the respective 11+ assessments to ensure that they are given the best possible chance of a successful entry.

 

Contact Think Tutors

 

Organising tuition or mentoring with one of Think Tutors elite tutors or mentors is an excellent way to gain an advantage in the application process for private education. With a 100% school admission success rate, our tutors are adept at enhancing performance through repetition, careful preparation, and confidence building.

 

We can either provide hourly or full-time tuition, in addition to homeschooling. We can organise tuition wherever and whenever, with the option of in-person or online tuition. Please contact us if you are interested in finding a tutor to help your child feel confident and succeed in their studies.

Categories
University Admissions

The University of Oxford: Magdalen College

Magdalen is a mainstay near the top of the Norrington Table, with roughly 75% of its students earning a first. As such, this college is not for the academically faint of heart, as it prizes intellectual achievement. 

If you would like to find out more about the application process, or indeed have any questions about whether Magdalen College would be a good fit for you or your child, please do contact Think Tutors.

 

The Grounds:

 

Magdalen College is known for its beautiful and historic buildings, which include the Great Tower, the Chapel, and the Cloister. The Great Tower, built in the 15th century, is a prominent feature of the college and serves as a symbol of its history and prestige. The Chapel, completed in the early 16th century, is a stunning example of Gothic architecture and features beautiful stained-glass windows and intricate carvings. The Cloister, a covered walkway surrounding a courtyard, is a peaceful and quiet place for students to study or relax.

 

Admissions Statistics:

 

The college currently has 397 undergraduates and 183 graduates, making it a medium-sized college in comparison to others at Oxford. According to available data from 2019–2021, 62% of Magdalen’s intake was state-educated versus 38% from independent schools, and 55% of those admitted were female versus 45% male. Between 2019 and 2021, the college received 1,170 state applications, admitting 163 (representing a 14% success rate), as well as 530 applications from independent schools, admitting 99 (representing a 19% success rate).

 

Notable Alumni:

 

Magdalen has been home to a host of famous and influential figures. From Prime Ministers to writers, scholars, and scientists. These include Oscar Wilde, King Edward VIII, Andrew Lloyd Webber, and, more recently, figures like Martha Lane Fox, Louis Theroux, and Jeremy Hunt. The college has a strong alumni network spanning everything from finance and law to science and mathematics.

 

Inside Perspective:

 

Life at Magdalen is never dull. If you are an aesthetic enthusiast in any way, then you are certainly going to be in awe of the college’s buildings and grounds. The deer park and surrounding walk are likewise among the most pristine and pastoral places in Oxford. The student body is very active, and there are numerous benefits to being a member. However, it is important to consider that although the college is by no means unfriendly, there are smaller and quieter college communities at Oxford.

 

Should You Apply?

 

There is no professional ceiling for students who are members of Magdalen. If this idea excites you, then apply, but also be prepared to continue or develop a strong work ethic. Magdalen College is a truly unique and special place, with a rich history and a commitment to academic excellence. It is a place where students can receive a top-quality education and make connections that will last a lifetime.

 

Contact Think Tutors

 

Organising tuition or mentoring with one of Think Tutors’ elite tutors or mentors is an excellent way to gain an advantage in the application process for university. With tutors who are experts in Oxbridge admissions, we enhance performance through repetition, careful preparation, and confidence building. From guidance on halls, to interview practise, private tuition with us leaves no rock unturned. Please contact us if you are interested in finding a tutor to help your child enter the Oxford college of their choice and succeed in their studies.

Categories
Topical

AI in Education

The following insight was not written by ChatGPT…

 

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly becoming a powerful and transformative technology, and its impact is being felt in many different industries and fields, including education. As AI continues to advance and evolve, it is likely to have a significant impact on the way that students learn and the style of examinations that they will sit in the future. This insight aims to provide both students and parents alike realise both the positives and negatives of AI in education, including the ways in which it can be utilised to maximise learning and development.

 

Personalised Learning

 

One of the main ways that AI will change education is by providing personalised and adaptive learning experiences for students. AI algorithms can analyse a student’s individual strengths and weaknesses and create a customised learning plan that is tailored to their specific needs. This approach can help students learn more effectively and efficiently and can help them progress at their own pace.

 

AI’s ability to enhance accessibility ensures that education is accessible for all. For example, AI technology can help SEND students access and interact with educational materials, a feat that may not have been possible in the past.

 

Practise, Practise, Practise

 

Another way that AI will change education is by providing students with more diverse and engaging learning materials. AI-powered educational tools and platforms can generate a wide range of multimedia content, including interactive games, virtual simulations, and video lessons. This can make learning more fun and engaging for students and help them retain more information.

 

There are many programmes that can be used, alongside teaching, to help students practise essay or exam questions in an interactive and engaging way. Our tutors are well versed in using these effective programmes to accelerate learning and help students understand how they can be beneficial to their development.

 

Lack of Human Interaction

 

One primary drawback of AI in education is that it can replace or reduce the need for human interaction. Although a valuable asset to education, it cannot replace human interaction, which is crucial to any child’s or teenager’s growth both academically and personally. Our tutors offer unique insights, experiences, and perspectives that, alongside AI, optimise learning and potential. From London to Kuwait, Drama to Computer Science, cradle to career, at Think Tutors, every student is equipped with an elite tutor to ensure both enjoyment and progress within education.

 

Privacy

 

Finally, there are also concerns around privacy and data security with AI in education. As AI algorithms collect and analyse large amounts of data on students, it’s important to ensure that this data is handled ethically and securely.

 

To conclude

 

AI is expected to have a significant impact on the education world and the types of exams that students will take in the future. By providing personalised and adaptive learning experiences, diverse and engaging learning materials, and dynamic and adaptable exam formats, AI has the potential to transform the way that students learn and succeed. However, it is important to carefully consider the potential negatives and ensure that AI is used ethically and responsibly in education.

 

Contact Think Tutors

 

Organising tuition or mentoring with one of Think Tutors elite tutors or mentors is an excellent way for your child to have unrivalled education. With a 100% school admission success rate, our teachers are adept at enhancing performance through repetition, careful preparation, and confidence building Please contact us if you are interested in finding a tutor to help your child feel confident and succeed in their studies.