Preparing Your Child for the ISEB Pre-Test in 2025: Personal Advice from David Bell

If your child is preparing for the ISEB Pre-Test this year, you might already be feeling the pressure — and you’re not alone.

The Pre-Test is often a child’s first big academic hurdle on the road to top independent schools. Naturally, you want to ensure they’re ready, confident, and calm when the big day arrives.

I’m David Bell, founder of My Tutor Elite. For over a decade, I’ve been helping students prepare for this challenge. I know how overwhelming it can feel for children and parents. That’s why I want to share some honest, practical advice based on what really works.

Getting through the ISEB Pretest with a smile

Understanding the ISEB Pre-Test

The ISEB Pre-Test isn’t just a knowledge check. It’s designed to assess potential as well as current ability. The test covers several key areas:

• Verbal Reasoning (language logic and understanding)

• Non-Verbal Reasoning (pattern spotting and abstract thinking)

• Mathematics (numeracy and problem-solving)

• English (comprehension, grammar, spelling)

  
  

The questions are adaptive. This means they get harder or easier depending on your child’s answers. Preparing for this exam is less about “cramming facts” and more about building confidence, strategy, and mental resilience.

Key Skills to Develop

To excel in the Pre-Test, kids need to develop core skills early. Focus on the following areas:

• Reading and comprehension: Encourage your child to read various materials.

• Mental maths: Building speed in arithmetic boosts confidence.

• Logical thinking: Engage them with puzzles and games to sharpen reasoning skills.

  
  

At My Tutor Elite, I design personalized plans that meet each child's unique needs. We focus on enjoyment; after all, learning should be fun!

Start Early, But Keep It Light

Parents often ask: When should we start preparing? The best preparation starts early, but it must remain manageable and positive.

A little regular practice from Year 5 can work wonders. Short sessions focusing on skills—not scores—help children grow into the exam naturally. This way, preparation builds them up rather than burning them out.

Practicing the Online Format

One common mistake is underestimating the online testing format. Even bright students can stumble just because they aren’t used to online exams.

If your child is preparing for the Pre-Test, ensure they:

• Practice on a laptop.

• Build their stamina for reading and answering questions on a screen.

• Learn simple navigation skills, such as using a mouse or scrolling efficiently.

  
  

I simulate the actual Pre-Test environment in my sessions, so the real thing feels familiar and comfortable when they get there.

Mindset Matters

Preparing for the Pre-Test is not just about skills. It’s also about building the right mindset. Many children will encounter tricky questions by design, and it’s vital they don’t panic.

In my sessions, I teach students how to:

• Manage their time wisely

• Move past tough questions without losing confidence

• Stay calm and focused, no matter what

  
  

From my experience, a calm, resilient child can outperform a frantic, overly rehearsed one every time.

Supporting Parents Too

Remember, this journey involves parents as well. You’ll want to do everything right, but it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the vast amount of online advice.

That’s why I work closely with parents. I provide honest feedback, practical advice, and reassurance throughout the process. You do not have to navigate this alone.

The Importance of a Balanced Approach

Let’s talk about balance. It’s crucial to let your child breathe, enjoy regular activities, and socialize. Heavy preparation can lead to burnout, so find a good mix of study and downtime. Encourage them to engage in hobbies and sports they love. Maintaining their well-being is essential for effective learning.

Final Thoughts

The ISEB Pre-Test can seem like a big deal—and it is. However, with the right approach, it doesn’t have to be a stressful one.

With expert support, tailored preparation, and plenty of encouragement, your child can not only succeed but actually enjoy the journey. Learn more here

If you’d like to discuss how we can help your child get ready for the Pre-Test in 2025, book a free consultation today. Let’s give your child the best possible start to their next big chapter.

Preparing Your Child for the ISEB Pre-Test in 2025: Personal Advice from David Bell