Dulwich College 7 Plus Preparation
The Dulwich College 7 Plus is a key entry point for what is one of London’s leading independent schools for boys, known for academic rigour, extensive extracurricular offerings, and strong pastoral care. Located in Dulwich, the school provides a dynamic and well-rounded educational experience. The 7 Plus entrance is highly competitive, with 40-45 places available each year for boys entering Year 3. (Though we expect this number to fall with the increased number of children getting all through offers at 4 plus). Our own programme, based out of Dulwich is well placed to help you pass – and indeed out CEO passed the Dulwich College entrance exam at that age. One of our key tutors was the Head of 7 Plus preparation at DUCKS and we have other strong links into the school.
About Dulwich College
While historically a key entry point, the expansion of DUCKS (Dulwich College Preparatory School) at 4 Plus has led to a reduced intake at 7 Plus, making entry even more selective. The school places a particularly strong emphasis on academic excellence, especially in Mathematics, and seeks boys who demonstrate high academic ability with numerical skills being particularly valued.
Dulwich College 7 Plus Format
The 7 Plus Dulwich College exam involves Stage 1 and Stage 2 assessments conducted in January of Year 2, plus review of the candidate’s most recent school report. Stage 1 includes an online assessment and short written assessments in English and Maths. Mathematics is the most heavily weighted subject, with strong emphasis on problem-solving, number fluency, multi-step word problems, and reasoning-based questions. English tests comprehension skills, vocabulary, grammar, and creative writing ability. Reasoning includes verbal, non-verbal, and spatial reasoning to assess logical thinking and pattern recognition. Stage 2 includes an individual twenty-minute interview with a member of the Senior Leadership Team, plus group exercises providing opportunities for children to participate in typical lessons, break time, and lunchtime to showcase social abilities and teamwork skills. There is usually also a group task.
Strong Mathematical Focus
Dulwich College places particular importance on mathematical ability at 7 Plus. The exam features advanced numerical reasoning questions and problem-solving challenges that require strong conceptual understanding and fluency. Applicants must be confident in mental arithmetic, multi-step problem-solving, and applying mathematical concepts to real-world scenarios. Boys who display natural mathematical aptitude and genuine interest in the subject have a distinct advantage.
Academic Expectations
Despite sitting the exam in January of Year 2, applicants must demonstrate mastery of many Year 3 curriculum topics, particularly in Mathematics and Reasoning. Children should have a strong grasp of number bonds, all four operations, fractions, decimals, place value, problem-solving techniques including logical reasoning and multi-step calculations, and spatial awareness and pattern recognition in non-verbal reasoning tasks.
The Challenge for State School Applicants
Given the high academic expectations, children applying from state schools may find the 7 Plus process particularly challenging compared to independent prep schools that teach beyond the National Curriculum. Our approach is based on extensive academic testing which can help us to bridge the gap. We recommend structured preparation from an early age, ideally through a pre-prep school such as The Villa, Herne Hill, or DUCKS, which align with the academic demands of independent school entrance exams.
How to Prepare for the Dulwich College 7 Plus Exam
To maximise success, a structured preparation plan is essential. Key strategies include strengthening problem-solving and numerical fluency in Mathematics (ensuring children can tackle multi-step problems quickly and accurately), enhancing comprehension and creative writing skills to excel in English assessments, regularly practising Reasoning exercises to develop speed and accuracy, and encouraging independent thinking and confident communication for interviews and group activities. Most successful applicants begin preparation from Reception, with many starting in the year before.
How Hermes Education Can Support Your Child with the Dulwich College 7 Plus
At Hermes Education, we specialise in preparing children for the 7 Plus Dulwich College entry process. Our bespoke support includes expert one-to-one tuition, mock exams, interview coaching, and holiday courses to develop essential skills and build confidence. We have programmes which work from pre-reception, through Reception, Year 1, and the first term of Year 2. All educators teaching on our 7 Plus programme are fully qualified teachers from leading private schools who have completed our comprehensive twelve-step CPD course on 7 Plus assessments. As an example, we have the former head of 7 Plus preparation at DUCKS as one of our tutors.