ISEB Pre-Tests

The ISEB Pre-Tests are online assessments in Maths, English, Verbal Reasoning (VR), and Non-Verbal Reasoning (NVR). They are used by senior schools to assess a pupil’s academic ability and potential. For schools that use Pre-Tests, these form a significant part of the initial entrance process. Most pupils sit the tests in Year 6.

A full list of senior schools that use ISEB Pre-Tests can be found here.

Registering for Pre-Tests

As soon as you decide to apply to a senior school that requires ISEB Pre-Tests, register your child through the  guardian portal. This usually takes place at the end of Year 5 or the start of Year 6.

Preparing for Pre-Tests

At school

• VR & NVR practice in Critical Thinking lessons

• Mock tests (usually one or two weeks before the real tests)

• Practice time and drop-in support sessions

At home

• Pupils will complete practice questions using ATOM Learning

• Pupils will be given Pre-Test work to complete over the summer of Year 5

Either Mrs Loveridge or Mrs Kemsley will oversee a pupil’s preparation. They will be the points of contact for parents and pupils and will be responsible for monitoring progress and setting preparation work.

Sitting the Pre-Tests

Pupils have different deadlines depending on each school’s requirements. However, pupils at Orwell Park usually sit the Pre-Tests at the same time, typically in the second half of the Autumn term.

Some pupils may choose to delay sitting the tests until the Spring term, but this must be agreed upon with the senior school in advance.

Pre-Tests Results

The results of the Pre-Tests are sent directly to senior schools and are not shared with schools or parents.