What selective senior schools really want is deep knowledge, clear thinking, and composure under exam pressure. We build all three through well-structured teaching. Students arrive genuinely prepared.
Our Tutors
What you can expect from Lionheart tutors
With many years of experience in independent schools, our 13 Plus tutors are school entrance preparation specialists for students entering Year 9. Carefully matched to your child, each tutor delivers tailored sessions which include 13+ past exam papers as well as exam and interview techniques designed to secure your child’s placement.
Not only do our tutors have expert subject knowledge, but they also have experience with both ISEB and school-specific entrance exams for all of the main senior schools in London and across the UK. Our 13+ tutors are hand-selected from a wide talent pool based on their natural ability to make learning engaging and efficient.
Every placement begins with careful matching. We learn how your child learns, then introduce a tutor whose subject expertise and temperament fit. From there, we agree a tailored programme with clear milestones and calm, consistent momentum.
About Lionheart
What our 13+ tuition covers
Common Entrance spans multiple subjects and exam boards, requiring coordinated preparation across a broad curriculum. We provide comprehensive support across all areas, ensuring students meet their conditional offers while building the knowledge and skills needed for senior school success.
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Core subjects
Comprehensive preparation across English, Mathematics, and Science. The foundation subjects that form the heart of Common Entrance assessment.
Our tutors ensure students develop secure knowledge and confident application across analytical writing, mathematical reasoning, and scientific understanding.
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Humanities
Expert guidance in History, Geography, and Religious Studies, developing the critical thinking, essay-writing skills, and factual knowledge required for success.
Students learn to construct compelling arguments, analyse sources, and demonstrate the breadth of understanding that senior schools value.
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Languages
Specialist support in modern and classical languages including French, Latin, and Spanish.
Our language experts focus on grammar mastery, translation skills, and cultural understanding, building both technical accuracy and confidence in written and oral communication.
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Exam strategy & technique
Comprehensive preparation covering time management across multiple papers, effective revision techniques, and strategies for maintaining performance under pressure.
Regular Common Entrance practice papers ensure familiarity with format, timing, and the stamina required for success.
Your 13+ questions answered
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When should we start preparing for Common Entrance?
We typically recommend beginning preparation at least 12 months before the exams as this allows time to cover all subjects thoroughly while building confidence. However, we can create intensive programmes for families starting later in the process and tailor it to the specific school you’re applying for.
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What subjects are required for Common Entrance?
All students taking the 13+ Common Entrance will be tested on English, Mathematics, and Science, but additional subjects often include History, Geography, Religious Studies, and French, though specific requirements vary by school. We will be sure to provide a broad academic schedule for each child taking the 13+ so they feel completely confident when they take the examinations.
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How do exam levels work at Common Entrance?
Most subjects offer different levels (1, 2, and 3) based on ability, with Level 2 being most common. Your child’s current school typically decides the appropriate level in consultation with the senior school. We prepare students for their specific level requirements.
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Do students need conditional offers before taking Common Entrance?
Yes, students should only sit Common Entrance if they already have a conditional place at a senior school. These offers are usually secured through pre-tests taken in Year 6 or 7, with Common Entrance confirming the place.
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What's the difference between ISEB papers and school-specific exams?
Some schools use ISEB Common Entrance papers while others set their own examinations. We’re experienced with both formats and adapt our preparation to match your target schools’ specific requirements. We go beyond administering 13+ past papers with answers and help your child to understand the logic required behind each test.
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How are Common Entrance papers marked and graded?
Papers are marked by the senior schools themselves, with scores converted into grades A-E. Each school sets its own grade requirements for acceptance, which we help you understand and work toward from the very first assessment. We ensure that children are prepared academically for the 13 Plus, as well as being experienced in interview techniques.
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Can a tutor prepare my child for 13+ interviews as well as written papers?
Many senior schools and nearly all independent schools use interviews as part of the 13+ process, and a tutor can help your child feel more comfortable with that side of admissions as well as with written papers. Interview preparation should not make a child sound rehearsed, but it should help them feel at ease speaking clearly, listening carefully, and answering naturally. Our tutors know that an interview is about becoming familiar with the setting rather than rote learning answers to potential questions.
