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7 Plus Westminster Guide

The 7 Plus Westminster exam needs

A Guide to the 7 Plus Westminster Under School Exam

Westminster Under School is one of London’s leading independent schools for boys, known for its outstanding academic results and strong pathway to Westminster School. Located in the heart of London, the school offers a rigorous and well-rounded education, preparing boys for future success in a stimulating and supportive environment. The school is undergoing significant changes, introducing a 4 Plus entry point and transitioning to a co-educational model. These developments are expected to have a major impact on the admissions process, although the extent of this impact remains unclear at this stage.

Meanwhile, admission to Westminster Under School remains 7 Plus is highly competitive. Each year, a limited number of places are available, and the selection process identifies boys (and girls in the future) who demonstrate exceptional intellectual curiosity and academic potential. Applicants must perform strongly in a series of challenging assessments.

7 Plus Westminster Exam Format 

The 7 Plus Westminster Under School exam is designed to assess a wide range of skills. Westminster Under School has a strong focus on mathematical ability at 7 Plus. The exam includes complex problem-solving tasks that require a deep understanding of numerical operations and logical reasoning. Boys who excel in Mathematics have a distinct advantage in the selection process. The format typically includes:

  • English – Reading comprehension, creative writing, spelling, and grammar. Pupils must demonstrate strong analytical and expressive abilities.
  • Mathematics – Emphasis on numerical fluency, multi-step problem-solving, and logical reasoning. The school seeks candidates with advanced mathematical skills.
  • Reasoning – Both verbal and non-verbal reasoning tasks test a child’s ability to recognise patterns, apply logic, and process information efficiently.
  • Interview & Group Activities – Boys are assessed on their confidence, communication skills, and ability to work collaboratively in problem-solving exercises.

Academic Expectations – Mastering Core Subjects 

The 7 Plus Westminster exam takes place in January of Year 2, but children are expected to be working at a significantly advanced level. To be competitive, boys should demonstrate:

  • Strong comprehension skills and the ability to infer meaning from sophisticated texts.
  • Well-developed creative writing, including structured narratives and imaginative expression.
  • Mathematical fluency in addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, along with fractions, number patterns, and problem-solving.
  • High-level reasoning skills for both verbal and non-verbal tasks.

Boy Studying for 7 Plus Westminster

The Challenge for State School Applicants

Boys from state schools may find the transition challenging due to the higher academic expectations at Westminster Under School. Many independent school applicants have been working at an accelerated pace, often beyond the standard Year 2 curriculum. We recommend early preparation and structured academic support to bridge the gap effectively.

How to Prepare for the 7 Plus Westminster Exam

Effective preparation is essential for success in the 7 Plus Westminster exam. A comprehensive learning plan should include:

  • Regular reading to build comprehension and analytical skills.
  • Writing practice to develop structured, creative, and expressive responses.
  • Intensive Mathematics preparation to strengthen problem-solving skills and numerical fluency.
  • Consistent practice with verbal and non-verbal reasoning exercises.
  • Building confidence through group activities and interview preparation.

How Mentor Education Can Support Your Child

Many successful candidates begin preparation from an early stage, often from pre-reception, progressing through reception and Year 1 with focused academic support. By Year 1, boys should be working on Year 2 and early Year 3 material to meet Westminster’s challenging expectations. At Mentor Education, we have a team of expert tutors, including former Westminster Under School teachers, who have extensive experience preparing children for the school’s rigorous entry process. Their insider knowledge provides invaluable insights into exam expectations and preparation strategies, giving our students a significant advantage.

Next Steps – Get in Touch

If Westminster Under School is your preferred choice and you would like expert guidance on preparing your child, our team at Mentor Education is here to help. Contact us today to learn how we can support your child’s journey to success in the 7 Plus Westminster admissions process.

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