The Quest Assessment: A Complete Guide for 11+ Independent School Entry

If your child is preparing for the 11+ and applying to top UK independent schools, understanding the Quest Assessment is crucial. This modern, adaptive online entrance test, produced by the well-known Atom Learning, is now used by a growing number of prestigious private schools.

In this guide, I explain what the Quest Assessment is, what it tests, which schools use it, and how your child can prepare effectively.

Quest is a computer based assessment

What Is the Quest Assessment?

The Quest Assessment is a computer-based, adaptive entrance test used by leading UK independent and private schools for Year 7 (11+) admissions. It is designed to measure your child’s reasoning ability and academic potential, rather than their performance in a traditional exam format.

✅ Key Quest Assessment features: Online and adaptive Questions increase or decrease in difficulty based on answers Measures potential, not just attainment Includes verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, maths, and comprehension

The Quest Assessment is often used instead of or alongside traditional entrance exam papers in English and maths.

What Does the Quest Assessment Include?

Here’s a breakdown of the main components of the Quest 11+ test:

1. Verbal Reasoning (VR)

• Synonyms, antonyms, word meanings, analogies

• Logic puzzles involving language and codes

2. Non-Verbal Reasoning (NVR)

• Shape patterns, sequences, spatial awareness

• Identifying rules in visual designs

3. Mathematical Reasoning and Problem Solving

• Problem-solving using numerical logic

• Multi-step word problems and pattern recognition

4. Reading Comprehension and Creative Comprehension

• Inference, deduction, vocabulary-in-context

• Analytical questions based on short passages

These sections adapt in real-time, making Quest a more dynamic and responsive assessment than traditional 11+ tests.

The familiarisation activities here give a flavour of what you child will be doing.

Which Independent Schools Use the Quest Assessment?

A growing number of top independent schools in London and across the UK are now using the Quest Assessment for their 11+ entrance exams. Get in touch and I can advise you further which schools are adopting this new format.

Always check the admissions page of your chosen school for up-to-date information on their 11+ entrance process.

 How to Prepare for the Quest Assessment

Although Quest is designed to reduce over-tutoring, targeted preparation can significantly boost your child’s confidence and performance.

1. Focus on Thinking Skills

Rather than memorising content, encourage problem-solving, reasoning, and logical thinking. These skills are at the heart of Quest.

2. Use Adaptive Online Practice

Platforms like Atom Learning or BOFA offer similar formats to Quest. Choose tools that adjust difficulty to simulate real test conditions.

3. Build Vocabulary and Comprehension

Daily reading, vocabulary expansion, and discussing texts aloud will help with verbal reasoning and comprehension.

4. Practice Under Time Pressure

While Quest isn’t a traditional timed paper, working under mild time constraints builds focus and exam technique.

5. Consider Expert 11+ Tutoring

A specialist 11+ tutor can provide structured preparation tailored to the Quest format and your child’s target schools.

Final Thoughts: Quest Can Be Conquered

The Quest 11+ Assessment is a modern test designed to uncover potential — but preparation still plays a key role. By supporting your child with structured practice, guided reading, and tailored tuition, you give them the best chance of success.

Need Support with Quest Preparation?

At MyTutorElite, I specialise in one-to-one support for 11+ and private school entrance exams, including Quest, ISEB, and school-specific assessments.

👉 learn more here