Insights
The 4+ exam at Westminster Under School is an assessment for entry into Reception, with the first cohort starting in September 2026. Traditionally a boys-only school, Westminster is now transitioning to a fully co-educational model.
This is an exciting opportunity for children to begin their education at a prestigious and academically rigorous school. For 2026 entry, there is limited information available to families on what the Westminster 4+ exam will entail. It is likely, however, to test for skills assessed at other schools with 4+ exams (e.g. DUCKS, Alleyn’s School, Garden House) but at a higher level. This may include skills such as communication, leadership, teamwork, reasoning, and problem solving skills, as well as strong literacy and numeracy abilities.
“At all entry age points at the Under School, we look for potential in the children, and for boys and girls who have natural ability and who will, therefore, thrive here. Our challenge is to find that potential in children whose natural ability will grow with the opportunities a Westminster education provides.”
Our expert education consultants are well-versed in the requirements of 4+ exams and can help your child to prepare with confidence.
The Westminster 4+ Assessment Process
Following attendance of an Open Day in September, the 4+ exam involves a two-stage assessment:
Stage One (November 2025): Play-based, small-group activities are designed to observe children’s listening skills, problem solving and ability to work as part of a team.
Stage Two (January 2026): A more structured assessment potentially exploring early literacy, numeracy, and problem-solving skills.
Age and maturity will be considered. Other factors such as proximity to the school and, in some cases, proficiency in English may also play a part in the selection process.
Why This Year’s Entry Is Unique
This is the first time Westminster has run a 4+ entry. There is no precedent for families to draw on and fewer shared experiences to guide preparation.
While this might seem daunting, it also means children will be meeting an assessment team without pre-set expectations. This creates a level playing field and an opportunity for your child to shine by being themselves.
What Westminster Is Likely Looking For
Based on our experience with leading London prep schools, Westminster is likely to be seeking children who demonstrate:
- A natural curiosity and enthusiasm for learning
- Confidence and adaptability in new situations
- Strong social awareness and cooperative play
- Listening and concentration skills in a group environment
- An awareness of letters, sounds, and numbers
- An ability to spot patterns in words and shapes
- Academic potential and an ability to learn quickly
- Warmth, good manners, and an ability to engage positively with adults and peers
How to Prepare for the Westminster 4+ Assessment
At The Golden Circle, we believe preparation should be enriching, not pressurised. For young children, readiness for school is best developed through playful, everyday experiences rather than intensive desk-based preparation.
Parents can help their child by:
- Encouraging cooperative play and turn-taking with friends or siblings
- Reading aloud every day and discussing the story to build vocabulary and comprehension
- Introducing simple number games to support early mathematical thinking
- Developing fine motor skills through drawing, puzzles, or building activities
- Practising following two- or three-step instructions in a playful way
Beyond The 4+ Exam
The Golden Circle specialises in school admissions support and early years preparation for London’s most selective schools. Our tailored 4+ programmes offer:
- Mock 4+ assessments and interviews reflecting the style of leading London prep schools
- Detailed feedback to guide learning at home
- Gentle coaching to nurture confidence, focus, and social skills
- Support for children with EAL or additional learning needs
- Guidance for parents on navigating the admissions process with clarity and confidence
Beyond 4+, we offer comprehensive 7+, 11+, and 13+ exam preparation for older children applying to prep and senior schools, including academic coaching in Maths, English, Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning. Our education consultancy also assists families with school choices, application strategies, and interview coaching at every stage. Our approach ensures children feel confident, happy, and well-prepared without taking away the joy of early childhood.
Key Dates for Westminster 4+ Entry
- Registration Opens: TBC (expected Spring/Summer 2025)
- Stage One Assessments: November 2025
- Stage Two Assessments: January 2026
- Offers Released: February/March 2026
What Happens After Receiving an Offer?
Getting an offer from Westminster or another selective school is exciting, but there are important next steps. You’ll need to confirm acceptance quickly, often by submitting a form and paying a deposit to secure the place.
Once confirmed, focus shifts to helping your child prepare for the new environment, from building independence to easing social transitions. At The Golden Circle, we support families through this stage with practical advice and resources.
If you don’t receive an offer, don’t worry. Competition is tough, so it’s wise to apply to multiple schools to increase your chances. You can consider waiting lists, appeals, or explore other excellent schools that fit your child’s needs.
Applying to several schools helps spread risk and opens more options. We help families manage multiple applications smoothly, preparing for different assessments and meeting each school’s unique requirements.
Whether you receive an offer or not, the right guidance ensures you’re ready to make the best decisions for your child’s future.
Summary
- Westminster Under School is launching a co-educational 4+ entry for Reception in September 2026.
- This is the first year the assessment will be run – details are emerging and public information is limited.
- The process is likely to involve two stages: play-based observation in November and a more structured, academic-but-playful stage in January.
- Competition will be strong, with a capped number of places.
- Preparation should focus on confidence, social skills, and early literacy/numeracy — not rote learning.
- The Golden Circle offers expert, bespoke education consultancy and Common Entrance preparation to help children approach the process with confidence at every stage.
Key Links and Contact Information
https://www.westminsterunder.org.uk/admissions/4-entry/
https://goldencircletutors.co.uk/guidance/education-consultancy/
https://goldencircletutors.co.uk/academic-learning/mock-exams-and-interviews/
Westminster Under School
wusregistrar@westminster.org.uk
+44 (0)20 7821 5788
+44 (0) 203 845 9014
contactus@goldencircletutors.co.uk