Cambridge Tutoring

Learn more about Cambridge exam tuition at NumberWorks’nWords

• What is Cambridge?

  Cambridge is short for University of Cambridge International Examinations (CIE). It offers internationally recognised qualifications in academic and vocational subjects. While the organisation behind the exams is based in the UK, the CIE curriculum is not the same as the UK national curriculum.

  Cambridge schools in New Zealand tend to offer the CIE curriculum in Years 11 to 13. Standards-based assessment includes external end-of-year examinations and in most subjects a component of CIE moderated practical tests, oral tests, portfolio work or coursework, depending on the subject. Year 11 students usually study for IGCSE qualifications in four to seven subjects.

• Why are Cambridge results so important?

  Cambridge study provides good preparation for university and employment. As with any school qualification, your achievement at each stage sets the foundation for study at the next level. New Zealand studied Cambridge grades for AS and A Level subjects earn points towards qualifying for University Entrance in New Zealand and the often higher entry requirements for individual programmes at each university.

• What can parents do to help?

  Maintaining open communication with your child and their teachers about learning progress is vitally important. It helps to identify minor problems early so they can be fixed.

  You don’t have to be a subject expert, you just need to be a coach helping your child to overcome obstacles, set priorities, find the right help and celebrate achievements. All students learn in bursts, it’s seldom a steady stream of plain sailing. Achieving their best, whatever that might be, requires clear goals and the right people to call on when support is required - get started with NumberWorks’nWords today!

• How do you know if Cambridge tutors are required?

  When we (today’s parents) went to school, our school reports generally showed a mark out of 100, sometimes a place in class, and a brief comment. Today schools tend to report on achievement against set criteria and try to include at least one tip on how your child could improve. Sometimes, however, it can be difficult to interpret the statements and understand how well your child is tracking in terms of their future Cambridge exam grades. 

  Our tutors are completely familiar with the Cambridge curricula. We can help you interpret a school report and we offer a free assessment for your child. We’ll discuss the results with you both and make recommendations for the next steps.

  We’ll also give your child a free introductory lesson so they can try some NumberWorks’nWords lessons supported by one of our tutors.