Frequently Asked Questions

How do we start?

We send you NFER assessment tests (recognised in state schools). These will tell us your child’s abilities so we can put your child on the appropriate work programme.

What is in the work programme?

The work programme consists of carefully structured weekly lessons in Maths, English, and later in Verbal Reasoning. They are sent to your home for each week of the school calendar, so you get all the usual school holidays. Each week there will be about 10 worksheets, presented in a fun and colourful way, with plenty of variety.

How long are the lessons?

If you and your child work together for 30 - 40 minutes each weekday it will leave the weekends free for hobbies and family events. A little quiet learning each day leads to steady progress.

When is the best time to do this work?

Whenever it suits you. You can organise the work around your family timetable. Most children work every evening, but some prefer to work in the mornings before school.

As a parent, what do I have to do?

The work programme is planned for you, so all you have to do is encourage and support your child through it. Parents really enjoy getting involved and with our work programmes and guidance, you can become a brilliant teacher! It is very rewarding.

Do we return any work to you?

Sometimes I ask you to send me special pieces of work, but generally you mark the work at home, so your child gets immediate feedback. Answers are supplied, and explanations are clear.

How will I know that my child is making progress?

You will almost certainly notice the difference yourself, but to actually measure this progress, I will send you further assessment tests every now and then, free of charge.

How do we keep in contact with you?

I am here to support you and am happy to discuss any problems. Most parents and children like to email me on a regular basis to tell me how you are getting on.

Do we get to meet you?

It is up to you. We enjoy meeting our pupils and parents. You are welcome to come and visit us in Suffolk , and many parents and children do. We are just 10 miles north of Colchester .

What is the biggest challenge when we first start?

Commitment. Finding half an hour every day is hard in our busy lives. But once you settle into a routine you will find it easy and it will soon be accepted as part of the working day – and an enjoyable part at that.

What standard will be reached by year 6, before my child enters secondary school?

Your child will reach level 4, at the very least. Most of my pupils reach level 5, the expected level of 13 year-olds, and a few reach level 6. Most of my 11 year olds take the 11+ or public school entrance exams.

How successful in the LITP programme?

Very. In the past 7 years over 70% of my 11+ pupils gained a place at a top grammar school. All of them who applied for places at public schools were offered a place, some with scholarships.

Do you only work with 11+ children?

No. I work with all levels of children, including those below average in ability too. LITP can really help them. I also work with parents who have taken their children out of school. This is called ‘Education Otherwise’, for which LITP is ideal.