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A new year ushers in new opportunities for learning, and here at Figtree we’re gearing up for another twelve months of carefully tailored tuition and expert consultancy. Working with children as young as four, all the way to university (and beyond), we’re equipped to support our students through every educational milestone. So this month, we’re…

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With the holiday season nearly upon us, now’s the perfect time to pause and reflect on successes shared with tutors, team members and all of our Figtree families. So, as we swap the pear tree for Figtree, and French hens for French lessons, we hope you enjoy our ‘Twelve Months of Figtree’ – with very…

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The 11+ has marked a turning point in children’s education for almost 80 years. But while the central premise of the so-called ‘transfer test’ has remained the same, it has evolved significantly over the decades – accelerated in recent years by COVID-19.   At Figtree, our dedicated 11+ team has supported children on their way…

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Having studied for her undergraduate degree and PhD at the University of Oxford, biomedical scientist and Figtree tutor, Claudia, is perfectly placed to guide prospective students through their Oxbridge applications. We asked her what students need to do to stand out, and how her support can help streamline the process.   Why did you decide…

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You’ve made the decision to apply to Oxford or Cambridge. You’ve scoped out the courses, colleges and cities. Investigated teaching staff and interrogated league tables. But how do you make the Oxbridge dream a reality? With thousands of applications from top students around the world, you’ll need to see off tough competition to secure that…

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The holidays are finally upon us, and while children definitely deserve a well-earned break, it’s worth planning a little learning to avoid the dreaded ‘summer slide’. Read on to discover our tips for everyday education, and how a few targeted top-ups can help prepare students for the coming academic year.   What is summer slide?…

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This month, we’re diving into the challenges of university applications. Where to go, what to study, how to stand out – we know it’s a fraught time for students and parents alike. But with a little preparation now, we can help de-stress the process and secure that coveted place. We’re experienced in supporting students applying…

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This summer, Winchester College will hold a two-week digital programme for the curious, ambitious and open-minded. The aptly-named Catalyst course is designed to give students the skills to thrive in a rapidly evolving world, and will encompass interactive lessons, online seminars and one-to-one coaching to help students challenge their thinking. The course has been developed…

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Extracurricular activities have long provided a way to stand out and broaden horizons beyond the school gates. But with competition for top university places growing, they’re now essential to securing a spot in further education – and navigating the job market that awaits. From short summer accelerators to ongoing programmes, there are plenty of ways…

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They say it takes a village to raise a child, and at Figtree we believe in bringing together experience from all walks of academic and professional life to further our students’ development. From qualified surgeons to accomplished filmmakers, it’s this breadth of expertise that enables us to tailor our tuition to every child. So this…

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As many of our students focus on preparing for their school entrance interviews, we wanted to reflect on the critical skills gained through proper practice – and how a good interview technique can stand students in great stead throughout their academic careers, and beyond. First impressions School entrance assessments are often the first time that…

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As children approach the mid-way point of their first term back, we wanted to look at how students have readjusted to classroom life. And with exams back on the table, what families should be focusing on next. While the pandemic still looms, September marked a much-needed return to normality for most. Guidance on social distancing…

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With the school holidays stretching out ahead – and international travel still touch-and-go for most – here are our top tips to help you keep children entertained over the long summer staycation. Go wild at the Eden Project The South American tropics come to the South West, as the Eden Project showcases the wonders of…

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We understand the recent reports of sexual harassment and assault in senior schools have caused great concern for parents. And while an emergency review is underway, with the education watchdog Ofsted set to visit a number of institutions where allegations have been made, we wanted to share some pointers for parents currently considering secondary schools…

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This month we’re in recommendation mode – looking at some of the latest tools and platforms to support students through school and onto further education. And with recent allegations causing widespread concern for parents and children, we wanted to share some advice to help families starting to look at their secondary school options.   For…

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Easter is around the corner and before we know it, the summer term will be upon us. With teachers set to decide GCSE grades by 18 June, we wanted to focus on how to make the most of the final few months – including the Easter holidays ahead.   GCSE grading explained   After last…

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Beccie is an experienced psychologist working in a National and Specialist Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service at The Maudsley Hospital in South London. She works with young people of all ages, specifically between the ages of 13 and 18, who have a range of complex needs. With the return to school looming, we asked Beccie…

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This is certainly a time of mixed emotions. Whether you’re counting down the days, feeling uneasy about the week to come – or perhaps a bit of both – here are our suggestions to make the return to school a positive experience for everyone. A problem shared… You’re probably not the only one feeling anxious…

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The long-awaited return to school is finally here, but we understand for many it brings its fair share of anxiety and conflicting emotions. So as lockdown lifts, we wanted to lift the spirits by focusing on everything children have to look forward to – and how we can help make the return to classrooms smooth.…

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