7 Plus Assessment Day
The 7 Plus assessment day is a crucial stage in the admissions process for many top independent schools. At this point, children have already passed the written exams, and schools are now looking beyond academic ability to choose the children they want to teach.
What Happens on 7 Plus Assessment Day?
Schools use the assessment day to observe children in different settings and assess their behaviour, social skills, and learning style. It typically includes:
- A formal lesson to see how children engage in a classroom setting.
- A group task to assess teamwork and communication skills.
- An individual interview to understand the child’s personality and interests.
- Unstructured observation in hallways, playgrounds, and lunch areas.
The Classroom Lesson – How Children Are Assessed
One of the key elements of assessment day is a short classroom session, where children take part in a typical lesson. Teachers use this to assess:
- Engagement – Does the child focus and participate actively?
- Listening skills – Are they following instructions and responding appropriately?
- Behaviour – Are they respectful and well-mannered?
- Collaboration – How do they interact with classmates?
Schools are looking for children who enjoy learning, follow school routines, and contribute positively to the classroom environment.
The Group Task
The group task allows teachers to see how children work together, solve problems, and communicate. Schools will observe:
- How well a child listens and takes turns.
- Whether they contribute ideas and engage positively.
- How they handle challenges or disagreements.
👉 Read our full guide on the 7 Plus Group Task [here].
The Interview
The 7 Plus interview is a key opportunity for children to show their personality, enthusiasm, and confidence. Schools typically ask questions about:
- Hobbies and interests – What do they enjoy doing?
- Books they like – Can they talk about a story they’ve read?
- Problem-solving scenarios – How would they approach a tricky situation?
Teachers are looking for curiosity, strong communication skills, and a love of learning.
👉 Read our full guide on the 7 Plus Interview [here].
Behaviour Matters – Even in the Playground
Many parents don’t realise that children are observed throughout the entire assessment day, not just during structured activities. Teachers will take note of:
- How they behave in the corridor and playground.
- How they interact with other children (sharing, kindness, confidence).
- Whether they show good manners (saying please and thank you).
Schools want to select children who will contribute positively to the school community.
How to Prepare for 7 Plus Assessment Day
Since the assessment goes beyond academics, children should be prepared for social and behavioural expectations as well.
1. Encourage Classroom Readiness
- Practise listening to instructions and staying focused.
- Teach them to raise their hand to answer questions.
- Help them feel comfortable joining class discussions.
2. Develop Group and Social Skills
- Practise turn-taking and sharing through games.
- Encourage positive interactions with new children.
- Teach them to stay calm and resilient in challenges.
3. Build Confidence for the Interview
- Practise speaking clearly about their interests.
- Help them think about their favourite books, hobbies, and experiences.
- Role-play typical interview questions to build confidence.
How Mentor Education Can Help
At Mentor Education, we offer expert preparation for the 7 Plus assessment day, including:
- Mock assessment days – Giving children experience in a realistic setting.
- Interview coaching – Helping them build confidence and communication skills.
- Group task practice – Developing teamwork, leadership, and listening skills.
With our specialist support, your child will feel confident and prepared for this crucial stage.
👉 Contact us today to learn how we can help your child succeed in the 7 Plus process!
Get in Touch
Find out how Mentor can help you support you and your child as you approach the 7+. Get in touch today.
London’s No.1 Tuition Agency
Media coverage
Mentor Education won Tutoring Provider of the Year at the Education Investor Awards in 2022 and 2024. We also won at the National Tutoring Awards and an Entrepreneur of the Year award in 2024. We are regularly featured in the Education Press, including School Report Magazine, the Good Schools Guide, and more.
Our Clients Journeys
Case studies
With the support of our wonderful families and the expertise of a dedicated team of school entrance, GCSE and A Level tutors, we work closely with every child to help them confidently navigate their exams. Whether it’s securing a scholarship, addressing specific learning needs, aiming for a place at a competitive school, or securing the grades for university, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Customers love what we do
What our parents have to say about Mentor
We are so proud of our 5 star reviews and testimonials which are a testament to the relationships our teachers build with their pupils and the success they create together.