CEM & GL Entrance Exam Preparation | Online Tutoring for Grammar & Private Schools

What Are CEM and GL Entrance Exams?

In the UK, many grammar and selective independent schools use either GL Assessment or CEM (Centre for Evaluation & Monitoring) entrance exams. Both are designed to test a child’s academic ability and reasoning skills at 11+ or 12+ entry points.GL Assessment → subject-based, multiple-choice papers in English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning, and Non-Verbal Reasoning.CEM → blended assessments combining English with Verbal Reasoning and Maths with Non-Verbal Reasoning. Less predictable and designed to reduce reliance on memorisation.

Subjects Tested

GL Assessment

English – comprehension, grammar, vocabulary
Mathematics – number, arithmetic, problem-solving
Verbal Reasoning – word-based logic and reasoning
Non-Verbal Reasoning – patterns, sequences, and spatial recognition

CEM Assessment

English & Verbal Reasoning combined → comprehension, synonyms/antonyms, cloze tests, applied logic

Mathematics & Non-Verbal Reasoning combined → number, problem-solving, diagrams, shapes

Why Students Struggle with CEM/GL Exams

Unfamiliar reasoning papers rarely taught in school
Tight time limits across multiple sections
CEM unpredictability (content varies year to year)
Exam pressure in highly competitive grammar/private school entry

How LearningClubs Supports CEM & GL Preparation

We specialise in 1-to-1 live online tuition tailored to your child’s exam board and target school.

Our Approach

Diagnostic assessment to identify strengths and gaps
Targeted practice for GL subject papers or CEM blended papers
Step-by-step strategies for reasoning, timing, and accuracy
Past paper and mock exam practice using online and paper-based resources
Every lesson starts with 5-breaths mindfulness, calming nerves and boosting focus

Assessment & Tuition Costs

Assessment: 2-2.5 hours

Includes: review of school reports, VR/NVR/Maths/English diagnostics, report, and parent consultation: 3-4 hours
Cost: £499

Tuition

£84 per 60-minute 1-to-1 lesson

+ £11.41/month for resources

Why Parents Choose LearningClubs

Personalised tuition tailored to CEM or GL format
Tutors with deep knowledge of grammar/private school entry requirements
Calm, structured preparation that balances rigour with confidence-buildingProven record of helping children succeed in selective entrance exams.

Parent FAQs about CEM & GL Preparation

Q: What’s the difference between GL and CEM exams?
A: GL → subject-based, multiple-choice papers in English, Maths, Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning.
CEM → blended papers combining English with VR, and Maths with NVR.

Q: Which schools use CEM or GL?
A: Many grammar schools and selective independents across the UK. Schools announce their chosen format in admissions details.

Q: When should we start preparing?
A: Ideally 6–12 months or longer, depending on your child's current academic performance and confidence inorder to build reasoning skills gradually.

Q: Are these exams online or written?
A: Both GL and CEM exams are usually paper-based and sat in person, though some schools may trial computer-based delivery.