Sixth Form is the last two years of secondary school in the UK, in which students can either study A-Levels or the International Baccalaureate (IB). Most independent schools require students to sit entrance examinations and assessments at 16+ to evaluate their academic abilities and potential. These assessments may include written exams, interviews, and sometimes practical assessments for specific subjects. It is advisable to prepare well in advance by reviewing the syllabus, practicing past papers, and seeking guidance from teachers or tutors.
What is the 16+?
Sixth Form is the last two years of secondary school in the UK, in which students can either study A-Levels or the International Baccalaureate (IB). Most independent schools require students to sit entrance examinations and assessments to evaluate their academic abilities and potential. These assessments may include written exams, interviews, and sometimes practical assessments for specific subjects. It is advisable to prepare well in advance by reviewing the syllabus, practicing past papers, and seeking guidance from teachers or tutors.
How to take the 16+?
Dependent on the school, a student will usually be asked to sit exams in their chosen A-Level/IB subjects, sit papers in English and Maths, and sometimes to take a CAT4 test. Alongside subject-specific examinations and GCSE results, independent schools require a personal statement as part of the admissions process. Personal statements provide an opportunity to showcase a student’s interests, aspirations, and unique qualities that make them an excellent candidate for the school. A reference will also be required from the candidate’s current school, as they can provide insight into a student’s character and potential, in combination with predicted GCSE grades.
Registration deadlines usually fall in September of the student’s final year of GCSEs (Year 11), although international students may have an earlier deadline and may need to take the UKiset test in advance of this deadline. Examinations and interviews will occur in October/November of Year 11, with decisions made by December. It is advisable to visit each school’s website or contact their admissions offices directly for detailed information on the application process, deadlines, and specific entry requirements for 16+ admissions.
Why is the admission process important for independent school admissions?
There are several prestigious independent schools in the UK that offer 16+ entry for aspiring students. Schools and Sixth Forms utilise the information provided by the student, in combination with their GCSE grades and school reference, to assess whether that student would be a suitable fit for their institution. Current schools that assess students for 16+ admissions include Eton College, Harrow, Westminster, Winchester, Radley, Wycombe Abbey, and Marlborough.
How can students prepare for the 16+ entry?
The process of applying to independent schools in the UK for Year 11 students requires careful planning, preparation, and research. By conducting thorough school research, preparing for entrance examinations and interviews, and seeking support from teachers and mentors, a student can enhance their chances of securing admission to their preferred institution.
At Think Tutors, we offer subject-specific tutoring, exam and interview preparation, personal statement support, and overall application guidance for 16+ entry. Our experienced tutors provide personalised instruction and guidance tailored to each student’s unique needs and learning style. They can help students develop effective study techniques and identify areas of weakness, then provide targeted practice to build their confidence and mastery of the exam’s content. Through one-on-one tuition, Think Tutors help students achieve their best to gain admission to their desired independent school.
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 97% 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 to find a tutor to help your child succeed at 16+.