Holiday English programme
Our English Sprints provide a ‘comprehension boot camp’. Over 4-5 consecutive days students sit a range of exams, which are submitted for marking and feedback. The papers are reviewed in depth, with exemplar answers shared and opportunities provided for students to ask questions and improve their own responses. We find students make rapid progress with this intense approach. Both multiple-choice and the traditional written format are included.
Parents value not only the amount of feedback provided, but the degree of transparency. You will receive:
· A returned test (clearly marked with a score), the cohort average and targets for improvement.
· A daily email covering shared strengths, common misconceptions and areas for development.
· A progress report summarising the week’s attainment, plus your child’s strengths and targets.
We also offer a creative writing camp over the summer holiday. This in-person workshop provides plenty of instruction, practice and feedback. Test technique (including timings) is covered in depth. Students and parents appreciate the marking process being demystified: we help the children to learn ‘every time we write’ criteria as well as genre-specific top tips.
English at The Shine Academy
11+ eNGLISH sprints
Creative wRITING wORKSHOPS
11+ Critical Thinking
Our programme is designed to give your child a competitive edge through a challenging, accelerated curriculum tailored to meet the demands of the most selective schools.
11+ Critical Thinking
Creative wRITING wORKSHOPS
11+ Critical Thinking
Does your child need to excel in critical thinking for top school admissions?
At Shine Academy, we’ve designed a specialist Critical Thinking Workshop to challenge and inspire high-achieving students.
What makes our workshop unique?
Cross-curricular problem-solving – covering Reasoning, Science, Humanities, and more. This includes two challenging mock papers that you won't find anywhere else!
Creative wRITING wORKSHOPS
Creative wRITING wORKSHOPS
Creative wRITING wORKSHOPS
Does your child need a boost in creative writing for the 11+?
Our engaging, in-person Creative Writing Course is designed to build confidence, refine technique, and unlock imagination—while keeping a sharp focus on exam success.
Meet the Expert Tutor
Richard Marlow
This programme is led by Richard Marlow, a University of Cambridge graduate with over a decade of experience in top-performing independent schools. Formerly Head of English and Head of Upper School at Kensington Prep, Richard specialises in preparing students for elite London day schools and top-tier UK boarding schools.