Strong foundations
We build the reading comprehension, writing, numeracy and language skills ICAS draws on: the real source of a good result.
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ICAS preparation
Ready for ICAS, without the cram.
ICAS rewards strong thinking under time pressure, exactly the skills our personalised Maths and English programmes build every week. We help Victorian students go in prepared and calm, not crammed.
The basics
What is ICAS?
ICAS (the International Competitions and Assessments for Schools) is an independent, skills-based assessment sat by students in more than 20 countries. Rather than testing recall, it measures higher-order thinking and problem-solving aligned to classroom learning, across English, Mathematics, Science, Spelling Bee, Writing and Digital Technologies. It runs each year from Year 2 upwards.
| Certificate | How rare |
|---|---|
| High Distinction | Top 1% of participants |
| Distinction | Next 10% |
| Credit | Next 25% |
| Merit | Next 10% |
| Participation | All other entrants |
How we help
Skills first, exam-style practice second.
Exam timing
Timed practice so your child knows the format and can pace themselves, instead of being surprised on the day.
Writing structure
For the Writing and English papers, we coach clear, structured responses that hold up under exam conditions.
Calm nerves
Familiarity is the antidote to test anxiety. A prepared child walks in steady, and that shows in the result.
Common questions
Common ICAS questions.
What is ICAS?
ICAS (International Competitions and Assessments for Schools) is an independent, skills-based assessment program sat by students in over 20 countries. It tests higher-order thinking and problem-solving in English, Mathematics, Science, Spelling Bee, Writing and Digital Technologies, from Year 2 upwards, each year.
How are ICAS results graded?
Students receive a certificate based on how they rank against others in their year and region: High Distinction (top 1%), Distinction (next 10%), Credit (next 25%), Merit (next 10%), and Participation. Every student also gets a detailed report showing their strengths.
Can you prepare a child for ICAS?
Yes. The best preparation is strong underlying skills plus familiarity with the format. We build reading, writing and numeracy foundations year-round, then add timed practice so the exam style and pacing feel familiar, which is what settles nerves on the day.
Do I need to do an ICAS-only course?
No. Children on our regular Maths or English programme are already building the skills ICAS tests every week. In the lead-up we can add exam-style practice if your child wants it, rather than running a separate cram course.
Get your child ICAS-ready.
Book a free in-centre assessment. We’ll show you where your child is now and exactly what would help them do their best in ICAS.