A local tuition provider says it has expanded its team to six qualified teachers as more families seek out its distinctive blend of academic teaching and creative activities.
Trafford Tuition, which runs small group classes and holiday schools across Trafford and South Manchester, says parents have responded particularly strongly to its holiday school model, which combines rigorous 11+ preparation with workshops led by children's authors, artists and craftspeople.
Tom Silver, who founded the Ofsted-registered provider and previously worked as a deputy headteacher in Greater Manchester, said the approach reflected a clear philosophy.
"Many families do attend with the 11+ in mind, and our results speak for themselves," he said. "But our philosophy is that strong teaching, small groups and confidence-building should come first. Success in selective tests tends to follow naturally when children feel secure and capable."
For the past two summers, the provider has run three-week holiday schools at Oldfield Brow Primary School, with 82% of Year 5 attendees going on to pass their 11+ tests.
But Silver said academic results were only part of the picture.
"We deliberately build creativity into the holiday programme," he said. "Academic rigour and creativity aren't opposites - they complement each other. Writing workshops, art sessions and problem-solving activities help children think more flexibly and express themselves more confidently."
The provider says all its tutors are qualified teachers or senior school leaders, with teaching materials developed in collaboration with a specialist with more than 30 years' experience creating 11+ content for leading exam boards.
Following requests from local parents, it has also now launched Advanced Maths and English weekend sessions for Year 5 pupils.
Silver said the feedback from families had been consistently positive.
"The feedback we consistently receive isn't about pressure - it's about children enjoying coming in each day, forming friendships and growing in confidence," he said. "That's something we're very proud of."
The provider runs regular term-time classes from community centres and schools across Trafford and South Manchester, as well as holiday courses. As an Ofsted-registered provider, it can accept payments through Tax-Free Childcare accounts.
More information is available at the Trafford Tuition website, including information about its Academic and Creative Holiday Schools.
