Westminster Under School 7+ Entrance Guide (2025 Entry)

Westminster Under School is one of London’s most prestigious and academically ambitious preparatory schools for boys aged 7 to 13.

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Key Information at a Glance

School Name	Westminster Under School
Entry Point	7+ (Year 3)
Age Range	7 – 13 (boys only)
Location	27 Vincent Square, London SW1P 2NN
Application Deadline	September 30th (Year 2)
Assessment Stages	November (Stage 1 & Stage 2)
Pupil Intake at 7+	Approx. 22 boys
School Website	Click here
Practice Papers	View Ivy 7+ Practice Papers ➝

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About Westminster Under School

Founded in 1943, Westminster Under School has earned its reputation as one of the top preparatory schools in the UK. It prepares boys for entry to Westminster School at 13+ and other leading independent schools such as Eton, Winchester, and St Paul’s.

The school combines academic rigour with a vibrant co-curricular programme – from drama and music to chess and fencing. Facilities are outstanding, and the atmosphere is warm, ambitious, and intellectually stimulating.

Many boys receive scholarships or awards as they move on to their next school. Westminster Under is proud of producing pupils who are not only academically gifted but also curious, creative, and well-rounded individuals.

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What makes Westminster Under so competitive?

Westminster Under School is regarded as one of the most academically rigorous preparatory schools in the UK. Each year, it attracts applications from some of the most capable and well-prepared boys across London and beyond – and with only around 22 places available at 7+, the entry process is naturally very selective.

So, what sets Westminster Under apart?

1. It Acts as a Pathway to Westminster School

A key reason for the school’s competitiveness is its direct link to Westminster School, one of the UK’s most prestigious senior schools. Boys at the Under School are well-prepared for seamless transition at 13+, and the vast majority secure a place at “the Great School.”

This clear academic pathway makes it an especially appealing choice for ambitious families.

2. High Academic Standards

Westminster Under has exceptionally high expectations, particularly in Mathematics and English. Pupils are stretched from an early age, often working beyond the national curriculum. At 7+, the assessments already demand skills closer to the end of Year 3 or even Year 4 in some cases.

The school is known for its:

• Strong mathematical tradition
• Depth of reading and vocabulary
• Emphasis on reasoning and intellectual agility

3. Broad, Balanced Education

Beyond academics, the school offers a rich co-curricular programme. From fencing and robotics to choir and chess, pupils are encouraged to explore their interests and develop into well-rounded individuals. Creative expression, public speaking, and collaboration are all nurtured alongside traditional subjects.

This balance is attractive to parents seeking a holistic, yet academically elite education.

4. Selective Intake & Small Cohorts

With only around 285 boys enrolled across Years 3 to 8, Westminster Under maintains small class sizes and personalised attention. Each boy is known well by teachers, and the school environment fosters both individual excellence and a strong sense of community.

5. Legacy and Prestige

The school’s central London location, distinguished alumni, and longstanding ties to Westminster Abbey and Westminster School contribute to its reputation. Places at 7+ are often seen as the start of an educational journey that leads to Oxbridge, Russell Group universities, and top careers.

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The 7+ Admissions Process – Step-by-Step

Understanding each step – from registration to interviews – is key to helping your child succeed. Below is a simple breakdown of what to expect and how to prepare:

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Registration

Parents must register their child via the school’s website before the late September deadline of Year 2. There is a non-refundable registration fee payable on submission. Early registration is highly recommended due to the school’s popularity.

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Stage 1 Assessments (November – Year 2)

📍 Online Reasoning Test

• Tests both verbal and non-verbal reasoning

• Delivered via computer at the school

• Evaluates logical thinking and pattern recognition

📍 English Paper (25 minutes)

• Comprehension of a short passage

• Grammar and Punctuation

• Vocabulary in context

📍 Mathematics Paper (20 minutes)

• Arithmetic and number fluency

• Word problems and logical puzzles

• Understanding of Year 2/early Year 3 curriculum

➡️ Want to practise at home?
Explore our expertly written Westminster Under School 7+ Practice Papers ➝

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Stage 2: Interviews & Activities

Approximately 50 candidates are invited back for Stage 2, which includes:

✍️ Creative Writing Task

Examples from previous years include:

• “What makes me happy”

• “The best day I ever had”

• “If I were a superhero…”

This assesses creativity, coherence, vocabulary and sentence structure.

🎤 Group Activities and Interviews

• One-to-one interview with the Head or senior staff member

• Small group interview with 3–4 other children

• Discussion about interests, hobbies, and school life

• Questions like:

  • "If you had a free afternoon, what would you do?"

  • "Who is your hero?"

  • "If you could invent something, what would it be?"

📚 Classroom-based Activities

• Listening tasks (following instructions, recalling information)

• Collaborative games

• Reading a passage aloud and answering questions

Need help with the school interview process?
We've written a comprehensive guide on the most commonly asked school interview questions.

We also offer:

School Interview Preparation Sessions

7+ School Mock Interviews with the former deputy head of Westminster Under

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Scholarships and Bursaries

At 7+ entry, no scholarships or bursaries are currently offered. Financial support becomes available at 11+, particularly for music scholarships and means-tested bursaries.

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How to Prepare for the Westminster 7+ Exam

Due to the challenging nature of the 7+ assessment, preparation is essential. At Ivy Education, we recommend a well-rounded, structured approach that builds a child’s academic skills, exam technique and confidence.

📌 Start Early

Preparation often begins in Reception or Year 1, particularly for families applying from the state sector. Westminster’s expectations can exceed the national curriculum.

📚 Focus Areas

Subject	What to Practise
English	Reading comprehension, grammar, spelling, creative writing
Maths	Mental arithmetic, multi-step word problems, logic
Reasoning	Pattern recognition, analogies, spatial reasoning
Interview	Speaking in full sentences, discussing interests, answering personal questions clearly

👨‍🏫 Mock Interviews & Assessment Support

At Ivy, we offer:

• Mock interviews with the former head of Westminster Under

• One-to-one academic tutoring for the 7+ exam

All tailored to your child’s unique strengths and areas for improvement.

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Practice Papers for Westminster Under School 7+ Entry

Looking to boost your child’s confidence and accuracy ahead of the big day?

Explore Ivy’s expertly created, exam-style 7+ practice papers, designed specifically for Westminster Under School’s format for English, Maths, Verbal, and Non-Verbal Reasoning.

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How Ivy Education Can Help

Ivy Education has over fifteen years of experience supporting families applying to Westminster Under School. Our consultants include former school staff, examiners and leading tutors who know the admissions landscape inside out.

We offer:

• Diagnostic assessments to identify strengths and weaknesses

• Personalised tuition plans

• Specialist exam preparation

• Interview training and group workshops

• Honest advice, strategy, and support for parents

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Next Steps

Is Westminster Under School your target for 7+ entry? We’d love to help you begin this exciting journey.

📞 Call us: 020 3973 9220
📧 Email: info@ivyeducation.co.uk
💬 Book a free consultation: Get in touch now ➝

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Related Links

• Explore our full 7+ Preparation Programme ➝

• View All Ivy 7+ Practice Papers ➝

• Westminster School 11+ Entrance Guide ➝

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FAQs

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