Question 1Aim for about 60 seconds
129 pupils are going on a trip. Each coach holds 32 pupils. How many coaches are needed?
Show the worked answer
Answer: C, 5
How to work it out
- 129 ÷ 32 = 4.03.
- Part of a coach cannot be hired, so round up to 5.
Tiffin two-stage test
Kingston’s two Tiffin schools use a first stage of multiple-choice English and maths, followed by a harder second stage for the highest scorers.
At a glance
- Subjects
- Maths and English
- Usually held
- September
- Set by
- GL Assessment
- Schools
- 2
The papers
| Stage | Paper | Questions | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stage 1 | English | 30 | 30 minutes |
| Stage 1 | Maths | 30 | 30 minutes |
| Stage 2 | English | 12 | 50 minutes |
| Stage 2 | Maths | 25 | 50 minutes |
Paper formats are indicative and change from year to year. Always check the current arrangements with the school or local authority.
How to prepare for the Tiffin
The Tiffin two-stage test covers maths and English. Most families start steady preparation in Year 4 or early Year 5, building accuracy first and speed later, then sit timed papers through the summer before the test, which usually takes place in September.
For maths, secure the Key Stage 2 arithmetic, fractions, ratio and problem solving before moving to the multi-step questions that separate the strongest candidates.
For English, read widely every day and practise comprehension, vocabulary, spelling, punctuation and grammar; selective tests reward precise word knowledge.
Schools that use the Tiffin
- Tiffin School Kingston upon Thames
- The Tiffin Girls’ School Kingston upon Thames
Try some Tiffin style questions
Question 2Aim for about 45 seconds
Which sentence is punctuated correctly?
Show the worked answer
Answer: D, We bought apples, pears, plums and grapes.
How to work it out
- The correct sentence is: We bought apples, pears, plums and grapes.
- Commas separate items in a list, or a fronted phrase from the rest of the sentence.
Questions parents ask
What subjects are in the Tiffin?
The Tiffin tests maths and English.
When is the Tiffin?
The main test usually takes place in September. Dates change each year, so always confirm them with the school or local authority.
How should my child prepare for the Tiffin?
Build the core skills in Year 4 and 5, learn each question type, then practise timed papers in the Tiffin format. Prism builds this plan automatically from a free starting assessment.
Find out where your child stands today
Prism starts with a free assessment across maths, English, verbal and non-verbal reasoning, then builds a weekly plan for your target schools. Parents follow progress free.
Start the free assessment