Helping Children Read, Understand and Love Classic Texts

Live online reading clubs and a library of classic books for children in Years 3, 4 and 5, from Geek School Tutoring.

Year 3 Reading ClubYear 4 Reading ClubYear 5 Reading Club

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Why classic texts trip children up

Many 11 Plus and independent school entrance papers use extracts from classic literature. These older stories are written very differently from the books children read today.

  • Long sentences that are hard to follow
  • Unfamiliar and old fashioned vocabulary
  • Meanings hidden beneath the surface, which exam questions love to test

Children who read confidently at home can still lose marks because the language feels foreign. The good news is that regular, guided practice makes it familiar.

Child reading a classic book

How we help

Live Reading Clubs

Weekly reading sessions on Zoom for Years 3, 4 and 5, in small groups led by a Geek School English tutor.

See times and prices

The Geek Readers Bookshelf

A ready made library of classic books for each year group, to read online or download and keep. No more hunting for reading lists or buying books your child may never open. Included with every reading club membership, or on its own from £9.99 a month.

Explore the Bookshelf

Reading Tips and Advice

Practical ideas to help your child read more widely, build vocabulary and tackle comprehension with confidence.

Read our tips

Our reading clubs are back

New Monday and Saturday groups start on 12 and 17 October, with a fresh format and the full Bookshelf included.

Read the announcement

Children enjoying reading

From Geek School Tutoring

11 Plus Reading is part of Geek School Tutoring, an Ofsted registered tuition provider with centres in Catford and Beckenham and students learning online across the UK.

Founded by Joycellyn Akuffo, an MA Education graduate and former magazine journalist who sat the 11 Plus herself, Geek School has helped families prepare for grammar and independent school entry since 2014.

Ofsted registeredThe Tutors' Association corporate memberDBS checked tutors

Find the right reading club for your child