PREPARING WITH CONFIDENCE
CAT4 - Preparation Programmes
What is the CAT4 and why is it important?
What is CAT4?
The Cognitive Abilities Test (CAT4) is a reasoning assessment used by UK schools to gauge a pupil’s underlying potential rather than taught knowledge. It looks at four areas: Verbal, Quantitative, Non-verbal, and Spatial reasoning.
Why it matters
State schools often use CAT4 to baseline cohorts each year and to identify strengths and learning needs.
Independent schools frequently use CAT4 for setting/streaming and, in many cases, as part of Year 7 admissions. Some ask applicants in Year 6 to sit CAT4 or provide recent CAT4 scores.
What this can mean for your child
CAT4 results influence Head's recommendations and references for future selective schools, class setting and the support and stretch students receive.
How our course delivers results.
Purpose built for CAT4
Many providers reuse generic reasoning questions across different products. We focus on CAT4 only and reverse-engineer from the tests to match the format, difficulty and timing of the real CAT4.
Evidence based learning
Using the latest research on effective learning for children our short, focused videos (<5 mins per question example) and immediate practice keep children engaged, build one skill at a time, and improve recall. Practice and familiarity then develop pacing, stamina, and exam confidence.
Structure of the course
We cover all four CAT4 batteries (VR, QR, NVR, SA) each split into two modules like the real test.
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The programme is organised into four weekly stages, each covering one of the main CAT4 batteries: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, Non-Verbal Reasoning and Spatial Ability.
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Each week, students complete two self-paced teaching units, practise the question types covered and submit a short progress activity. They then attend a live small-group coaching session to review common difficulties, work through selected questions and receive guidance for the following week.
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A starting-point check and final progress check help identify strengths, weaker areas and suitable next steps.
Real results
Our previous CAT4 pupils have seen an average increase of 18 SAS points (≈13%) often moving into the very high range. Better scores influence Head's recommendations, references to selective schools and class setting.
Boost your child's CAT4 scores today!
CAT4 Guided Preparation Programme — £119
A flexible four-week programme combining structured self-paced video lessons and practice with a weekly live review session. Students work through all four CAT4 batteries, receive regular guidance and progress monitoring, and can use the extensive video library to focus on areas where they need the most support.
Best for: families looking for flexible preparation with regular teacher contact and accountability.
Rolling four-week programme
Small-group teacher support
£119 · Course materials available until 31 October 2026
CAT4 Live Intensive Programme — £275
A more teacher-led four-week programme with three 45-minute live small-group sessions each week. Students are taught the key CAT4 question types directly, practise them with teacher support and receive regular feedback throughout the course. Full access to the video lessons and course booklets is also included for consolidation, additional practice and catch-up.
Best for: students who benefit from more frequent live teaching, interaction and closer support.
Rolling four-week programme
Three 45-minute live sessions each week
£275 · Course materials available until 31 October 2026
