Schools in UK – education information

The education received in the UK has been considered exemplary for many years, both from an academic point of view and from an educational one. This is not surprising, because the British system and schools in England have been formed over the years, relying on the best traditions of classical education. Today they harmoniously combine the valuable experience of the past years, modern technologies and new educational methods that make it possible to move with the times.

The best secondary schools in the UK pay much more attention to supporting pupils and creating a comfortable atmosphere. Nowadays, the educational program of English schools is designed to educate schoolchildren in a personality that will be comprehensively developed, and also has all the qualities that are necessary for adult life.

Studying in TOP secondary schools in UK includes four main stages: primary from 5 to 7 years and from 7 to 11, secondary for children from 11 to 14 years and from 14 to 16. The set of required subjects varies depending on age. In elementary school, children study English, mathematics, history, geography, music, industrial technology and art. Since the age of 11, compulsory subjects include English, mathematics and sciences (fundamentals of chemistry, biology and physics). The student chooses the other subjects together with his parents based on his own preferences. From the age of 14 to 16 – students prepare for the GCSE exam (General Certificate of Secondary Education).

Specifics of studying in TOP secondary schools in the UK

The grading system in British schools is alphabetic: from A* (excellent) to U (extremely unsatisfactory). In some private educational institutions, they also give a second grade – for diligence, from 1 (active work and interest in the subject) to 5 (the student does not try at all). Double assessment is very convenient for both the student and his parents.

The academic year at the secondary school is divided into trimesters, the duration of each is 12 weeks. The number of lessons depends on the age of the students, but always includes creative activities and sports. Much attention is paid to general education: schools try to develop leadership qualities in children, curiosity, to cultivate free individuals who can make choices, defend their point of view, strive for professional development, and at the same time be worthy members of society who have the right to be called true ladies and gentlemen.

Enrolment requirements in the international secondary schools in the UK

Each international student can become a student of one of the best secondary schools in the UK in case of compliance with the requirements. Firstly, the foreign student needs to have language knowledge.

To apply, the international students must also pass the exams in mathematics and English, but some schools in England add natural sciences. As a rule, the students write tests a few months before the start of studying. In addition, all students undergo a personal interview with representatives of the school’s admissions committee. Also, a future student needs to prepare, translate into English and send the following list of documents to a potential educational institution:

• A report card with grades for the last 2-3 years of high school (academic performance);
• Language English certificate (IELTS or TOEFL);
• Letters of recommendation with student characteristics from teachers of mathematics and English;
• Motivation letter or essay on behalf of the applicant.

This is the minimum list of necessary documents, it can be expanded. 

Usually, schools in England begin accepting applications from international students in February-March, and the review phase begins in May-June. After that, the student receives an answer – an invitation to school, or a notification about the inclusion of a student in the reserve list.

Secondary schools in the UK fees for foreign students

The tuition fee at a secondary school in the UK will mostly depend on such factors, as: type of school, its location, the number of students, chosen educational program, extracurricular program. According to statistics, the cost of studying varies from 20,000 to 25,000 pounds. 

The best secondary schools in UK – ranking of 10

• Cardiff Sixth Form College
• The Perse School, Cambridge
• Westminster School
• King’s College School Wimbledon
• Queen Ethelburga’s College, York
• Concord College, Shrewsbury
• City of London School for girls
• Haberdasher’s Aske’s boys School, Elstree
• St John’s College, Cardiff
• King Edward’s School, Birmingham.