CAT4 Preparation | 1-to-1 Online Tutoring for Reasoning Tests

What Is CAT4 (Cognitive Abilities Test)?

The CAT4 is an online, multiple-choice reasoning assessment used by many private and grammar schools (and some state schools) to understand a pupil’s underlying cognitive potential. It’s frequently used for admissions screening, setting/streaming, and baseline assessment.

The Four CAT4 Batteries

Verbal Reasoning (VR): thinking with words and language patterns
Non-Verbal Reasoning (NVR): shapes, patterns, and visual logic
Quantitative Reasoning (QR): number relationships and problem logic

CAT4 is typically taken in Years 5–8 (and sometimes later at entry points).
Results are age-standardised.

Why Students Struggle with CAT4

Unfamiliar question types (not covered directly in school lessons)
Tight timing and multi-part batteries
Visual–spatial items (nets, rotations) that can feel daunting
Test nerves that slow recall and reduce accuracy

How LearningClubs Prepares for CAT4 (Online)

We specialise in 1-to-1 live online tutoring aligned to the CAT4 format, so practice mirrors the real test.

Our Preparation Approach

Targeted diagnostic to identify strengths and gaps across the four batteries
Guided practice with CAT4-style items and worked examples
Timing strategies to build speed without losing accuracy
Reasoning techniques (spotting patterns, eliminating distractors, mental models)
Calm focus: every lesson starts with a simple 5-breath mindfulness routine to reduce anxiety and improve concentration

When your child practises in the exact format used on exam day, they develop the confidence, speed, and composure needed to perform at their best.

Who Is CAT4 Prep For?

Pupils applying to private/grammar schools that use CAT4 in admissions
Students approaching internal CAT4 baselines (setting/streaming)
Children who need help with reasoning speed and pattern recognition
Families seeking a calm, structured way to prepare without stress

Assessment & Tuition Costs

Assessment (Entrance Exam Track): 2-2.5 hours

Includes: school-report review, VR/NVR/QR/SA diagnostics, written report, parent consultation: 3-4 hours
Cost: £499

Tuition (CAT4 Prep)

£84 per 60-minute 1-to-1 lesson
+ £11.41/month for educational resources

Why Parents Choose LearningClubs

Personalised 1-to-1 online preparation focused on CAT4 reasoning
Experienced UK tutors who explain patterns clearly and simply
Mindfulness for exam stress, improving focus and confidence
Transparent feedback after lessons so you can track progress

"Building Confidence" isn’t just our tagline—it’s the outcome we aim for in every session.

Parent FAQs about CAT4 Preparation

Q: What ages do you support for CAT4?
A: Typically Years 5–8, with support available for later entry points if needed.

Q: How far in advance should we start?
A: Ideally, 6–12 weeks ahead, longer if reasoning skills or confidence need extra time to develop.

Q: Is CAT4 like the ISEB Pre-Test?
A: Both are online reasoning assessments. CAT4 focuses on the four cognitive batteries; the ISEB Pre-Test also includes curriculum English/Maths and school specific.

Q: Do you provide practice materials?
A: Yes—your plan includes CAT4-style practice and strategy coaching, plus monthly resource access.