13+ WORKSHOP FOR INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS INCLUDING SEVENOaks

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A two-day plan to help prepare for 13+ Independent Schools including Sevenoaks School course, focusing on the group interview and exam. The aim is to maximize preparation while balancing topics and practice for both the group interview and the exam.

1. Introduction to Group Interview (9:00 AM – 10:00 AM)
    
   • Overview of the Group Interview Process: Discuss the format, what the school is looking for, and how the group interview differs from other interviews.
      
   • Expectations: Students will be evaluated on their ability to listen, contribute, and build on others' ideas.
      

1. Group Activity (10:15 AM – 11:30 AM)
   
    
2. Feedback & Reflection (11:30 AM – 12:00 PM)
    

Lunch Break (12:00 PM – 1:00 PM)

Maths Revision (1:00 PM – 2:00 PM)
 

• Focus will be on core topics that are commonly tested in the 13+ entrance exams. This includes: algebra, geometry, fractions, and number theory.
   
• Sample questions for the students to work through, followed by detailed explanations and solving strategies.
   

English Revision (2:15 PM – 3:15 PM)
 

• Reading Comprehension: Passage (fiction or nonfiction) will be given to students to read, followed by detailed questions on theme, structure, and vocabulary.
   
• Creative Writing: Students will be asked to write a short story or description on a given topic, focusing on creativity, structure, and grammar.
   

Break/Review (3:15 PM – 3:45 PM)
 

• Short break with snacks and then review the work done so far in English and Maths. Discuss any difficulties students encountered and clarify any doubts.
   

General Knowledge Review (3:45 PM – 4:00 PM)
 

• Quiz-style session on Maths and English & Reasoning to help with knowledge-based questions.
  
   

End of Day 1 (4:00 PM)

1. Maths and English Exam (9:00 AM – 10:45 AM)
    
   • Students are given a timed mock exam. The first section will focus on Maths (45 minutes), and the second section will focus on English (45 minutes).
      
   • After the exam,  a 15-minute break will be given.
      

1. Review the Exam (11:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
    
   • We will go through the mock exam answers together, explaining the solutions and answering any questions the students may have.
      
   • We will focus on areas where students struggled, offering tips and tricks for improving exam performance.
      

Lunch Break (12:00 PM – 1:00 PM)

Afternoon: Group Interview Simulation

Group Interview Simulation (1:00 PM – 2:00 PM)
 

• We will run a group interview simulation, where students are again placed in small groups to discuss a topic (e.g., “What is the most important skill to learn in school?” or “How can we protect the environment?”).
   
• Each student should have a chance to speak, and the observer (teacher) will provide real-time feedback on communication, leadership, and interaction skills.
   

Individual Practice (2:00 PM – 3:00 PM)
 

• In this session, students are given an opportunity to answer a series of personal questions they might face during the interview, such as:
   
  • "Why do you want to attend this school?"
     
  • "What are your strengths and weaknesses?"
     
  • "What extracurricular activities do you enjoy?"
     
• Students should practice responding confidently and concisely.
   

Final Group Discussion & Feedback (3:00 PM – 3:45 PM)
 

• Engage in a final group discussion where students share their thoughts on their group interview experiences. Feedback on the day’s group discussions and practice will be provided.
   

End of Day 2 (3:45 PM)

• Group Interview Tips:
   
  • Speak clearly, be respectful, and encourage others.
     
  • Stay calm if others dominate the discussion; offer your thoughts when appropriate.
     
  • Show your critical thinking and ability to work as a team.
     
• Exam Focus:
   
  • Students should be able to practice time management during the mock exam.
     
  • Covering key academic subjects (Maths & English)  and ensure they understand how to approach each type of question.
     

This plan ensures balanced preparation for both the group interview and the entrance exam over two days, mixing theory, practice, and feedback sessions for optimal learning.