Education abroad has always been considered a prestigious matter, especially for the younger generation, so today I will share with you my observations on how education is conducted in British schools.

First of all, it is worth saying that our schools are very different from British ones. If it is customary for us to send children to study at about six or seven years old, then children are sent to study at about five years old.

In general, all training there is divided into three stages. The first is an elementary school, like ours. There, children study until the age of twelve or thirteen, and study the required number of subjects, there are about 12 of them. After that, the child goes to secondary school, where he studies until he is sixteen years old. There, schoolchildren eventually pass the exam and receive a semblance of our certificate, with which it is quite possible to go to college. And finally, the third stage is the higher school, where students study until adulthood. There, the emphasis is only on the subjects necessary for admission to the university, and at the end of the school, graduates take a special exam. An important plus is that the result of this exam is already the basis for enrolling in a university, that is, you will not have to take exams even upon admission.

With discipline in English schools everything is strict, so it will be useful to send unlucky and restless children here to study. It is customary to wear a school uniform. Schoolchildren live in boarding houses near the school. Moreover, boys separately, girls separately. Several people are accommodated in one room, privileges are given only to students from the age of 16 - they are accommodated one or two people per room.

The learning process has its own characteristics. For example, if we give marks only for the final answer, then in England the student receives marks even for trying to answer, if it was in the right direction. This greatly encourages children to study.

Teachers pay the main attention to the fact that the child is comprehensively developed and can speak out on any problem. Therefore, students are constantly asked to say what they think about this or that matter, and this is also appreciated.

In the UK, it is also considered polite to thank the teacher if he made a remark or gave you an instruction. At first, Russian children and their parents who live in England cannot accept this fact for a long time, because Russians do not really like criticism.

To prepare your child for admission to English school First of all, he must know at least the basic basics of the English language. It would be helpful to send him to a summer school for an English language program. Also, together with the child, you need to learn some important points about culture and to make the child feel comfortable and confident in a new country. For admission, the child must pass a special test, which is sent to his school directly from England, and based on the results of this test, talented students are selected who are already being interviewed by representatives of English schools.

In principle, it is not so difficult. But the result will make itself felt: the child will confidently know English, acquire the skill of communicating with foreigners and get a lot of impressions about the culture and customs of another country!

V Lately education in the UK is becoming more and more popular all over the world. Why is this happening? How did it happen that the knowledge provided by a modest, by modern standards, northern country, is held in such high esteem? In this article, we will try to answer all these questions. In addition, readers will learn more about school education in the UK, about its levels and organization principles. In fact, our country has something to strive for.

general description

It so happened that the education system in the UK for many countries is a kind of standard. Although not everyone knows that it appeared many centuries ago and, in fact, in its original form arose back in the 11th century, far from us.

It should be noted that in the British school, like in no other, to this day there is an “iron” discipline, the educational process takes place at every educational level, and the teaching methodology that has taken place deserves special respect. Yes ... Here we can say with confidence that the centuries-old history of education in the UK has left its mark on almost every area of ​​the modern process of obtaining knowledge.

Among other things, it is in British schools that students are given the opportunity to receive not only first-class knowledge, but also an elite education, which at the same time means the acquisition of secular manners and useful connections with the strong and famous of this world.

It's no secret that almost all wealthy and eminent families interested in the successful future career of their children, first of all, try to send them to prestigious English schools.

At the same time, despite the effectiveness of education, the peculiarities of education in the UK imply a certain flexibility. What is it expressed in? The thing is that in the country today there is a huge variety of different training courses, and students are given the opportunity to choose exactly what they are really interested in. In addition, if desired, the selected items can be changed, this does not take much time and does not need to draw up a pile of documents. After weighing all the pros and cons, the student must simply write an application and start classes according to the newly approved schedule.

There is some misconception that education in the UK in English is better than what can be obtained in, for example, German or French. Not at all. Local teachers approach their work with full responsibility, which means that regardless of the language, students will be provided with the entire necessary set of knowledge in the chosen direction.

Preschool education

Primary education in the UK for little Englishmen and Englishwomen begins when (at that age) when Russian kids just go to kindergarten. Classes of three-year-old students are not much different from kindergarten ones - there are the same developing creative games and the same group work. However, they are engaged there only 3 hours a day. Longer lessons are prohibited by law. Why? The thing is that local experts unanimously decided that a child of this age should have time for games, fun and walks in the fresh air.

In order for a child to enter a preschool class at a reputable elementary school, it is necessary to pass a series of entrance tests, which, by the way, are different in each individual region of Albion, which means that they will have to be prepared separately and in advance.

The education system in the UK is such that, almost everywhere, authorities require parents to apply for enrollment one year before the age of three. If, for any reason, the documents were not submitted by the due date, the child will most likely not receive a place in the class and will be placed on the so-called waiting list.

It is unthinkable to imagine that a child can start studying in certain regions of England from the age of two. However, this applies mainly to private preschool classes. However, the requirement to apply to such a private institution can come as a shock! Documents in a number of classes, parents must submit before the baby is born! It’s hard for us to even imagine, not to mention the fact that some modern parents from Russia may be considered a bad omen. We even try not to purchase the necessary hygiene items before the birth.

The education system in the UK. Primary public educational institutions

Despite the variety of principles of primary education, in public schools the most common is the education of children aged 4 to 11 years.

The first year of school is called kindergarten. If the parents submitted the application in time (six months before the start of the semester), then the child from the preschool class goes to the elementary school.

Despite the great number of good elementary schools, getting a place in one of the institutions is not so easy. Even studying in a preschool class at an elite school does not guarantee a child's admission to it. Education in the US and UK is relatively this paragraph very different. In America, a child who graduates from an elite kindergarten is automatically enrolled in the same school.

Another important criterion for accepting a child to school is the place of residence of the family: the closer the house is to the institution, the greater the likelihood of enrolling in this educational institution. But this is not the key to a good education. Existing criteria for admission in each school can vary significantly. Therefore, parents should first of all learn the rules of admission.

Education in the UK in primary school involves certain stages, which are worth talking about in more detail:

1. Stage I - at the age of 4 to 6 years. The preparatory class is replaced by the first class, and at the age of six children move to the second.
2. Stage II - begins at age 7 and continues until the child finishes sixth grade.

Primary education. Private schools

In the system of independent education, the concepts of preschool and are almost the same, but the names are somewhat different. So, preschool classes are called pre-preparatory, and primary schools- preparatory.

The rules for admission to different can be radically different. So, for admission to a number of pre-preparatory classes, one can get by with simply registering a child at school (although this must be done in advance); in other institutions, the procedure for passing entrance exams is strictly mandatory.

The indisputable advantage of independent primary schools is the step-by-step possibility of admission. At the same time, certain proposals are possible for each age, and the existing system of such schools implies the successful continuation of the educational process for almost every child.

What is it like in the countries of Foggy Albion?

The eleventh birthday for a child means a new period in his life - the stage of high school.

Despite the fact that in the UK there are both public and private schools, they all adhere to the same educational standards. In addition, the state provides the right to study at a secondary school for children under 16, that is, it should be noted that free education in the UK is not only in demand, but also very popular among different social strata.

Based on the results of the training, students pass the final exam and receive a certificate, which, however, is not a guarantee of admission to universities, but provides the right to work opportunities.

Public schools are free, foreigners aged 8 to 18 can also study in them (a prerequisite is parents living in England).

Education in independent schools is prestigious. Mostly English schoolchildren (85%) study in them. Good private schools have hundreds of hectares of land at their disposal, where all kinds of educational, health, sports and entertainment buildings are located.

Professional education

In addition to schools, there are also educational institutions in the UK. The difference between these two systems is similar to Russian schools, the full completion of which involves admission to a technical school, and then to an institute, and vocational schools - institutions in which children receive a specific profession. Such institutions in England are called Tertiary Colleges. They are characterized by a frequent change in educational programs and qualifications.

The further predestination of the graduate largely depends on the latter. Thus, the NVQ qualification involves exclusively practical work in the areas of business and production. However, it is a multi-level system, and, in principle, provides the necessary knowledge for further continuation of education. Has five skill levels. You can earn each of them by showing yourself in practice, doing work of one level or another.

ND - a kind of colleges of further education, education in which ends with the issuance of an international diploma. Thus, before receiving a vocational education, the child and his parents must carefully consider and choose the right decision.

Higher education in the UK

To obtain a bachelor's degree in England and Wales, you need to study for three years. If the training involves the passage of industrial practice, then, accordingly, the period increases. Specific specialties, such as design and art history, require the passage of a basic course of study, after which three years in the specialty. To get a medical degree in the UK or to become, for example, an architect, you will have to study for at least seven years.

All courses of study are divided into degrees, respectively, the higher it is, the more valuable the graduate.

1. They become a bachelor after 3-4 years of study. It is noteworthy that the English baccalaureate is highly valued not only at home, but throughout the world.
2. Intermediate degree. This level is a kind of stepping stone on the way to further education.
3. The master's degree is divided into two categories (depending on the orientation of the study program): research and professional.
4. Doctorate degree. To receive such a higher education in the UK, the student must be actively engaged in research activities, the duration of which is 2-3 years. The results obtained during the work are published in scientific reports and journals. The doctoral degree is awarded immediately after the defense of a scientific work - dissertation.

UK Boarding Schools

The dream of any parent is a successful and educated child. Thousands of loving hearts are ready to give a lot for the education of their child in an English private school.

It would seem that there is nothing complicated, because there are a great many private schools in the UK. And here is the biggest hitch! After all, it is not so easy to choose a good institution that will suit not only the parents themselves, but, first of all, the child.

Today, English schools are happy to accept children from Russia and the CIS countries. To dispel all doubts regarding the quality of teaching and academic preparation, there are ratings of boarding schools. This guideline is followed by most parents.

Ratings are compiled according to the principle of learning effectiveness. So, if school graduates demonstrate excellent results, then, accordingly, the level of the school increases significantly. However, getting into it is not so easy. The child's abilities must be above average, and in order to determine them, he must pass an entrance examination or test.

An important factor for Russian parents should be the percentage of Russian-speaking children in school. The fewer of them, the sooner and more effectively the child will speak English perfectly (this applies even to those students who studied at home in schools with in-depth study of the language).

In Great Britain

The opinion that is almost the most expensive is very common. However, is this true? Are there simple student tricks to save money? Is it possible to somehow overcome these problems of education in the UK? Yes, of course!

A student before the start of the first academic year in his life in England must take care of the choice of housing. Two options are optimal: renting a separate room, living in a hostel. Practice shows that renting a room will save the student at least 25 pounds! In order to buy cheap food for yourself, as in Russia, you need to run around, ask the price, and then the savings are surely guaranteed.

In fact, if desired, each student can save. Transport, entertainment, shopping - if you are not lazy and try to find the most correct solution, then success and an extra hundred pounds are guaranteed.

Requirements for foreign applicants

The current education system in the UK does not allow students from Russia and the CIS countries to enter colleges and universities immediately after graduating from schools in their homeland.

To enter an English university, you must at least complete 2 courses of the institute at home or undergo special training in England.

They fall into two categories:

• A-Level lasting 2 years makes it possible to enroll in all universities in the country. Gifted students can complete the same program in as little as a year.
• Basic (or Foundation) - term 1 year. The reduced program provides an opportunity to enter a limited number of universities.

Such preparation systems are key for those wishing to graduate in the UK.

Public schools in England, which are funded by the government, are part of the state educational system. Children study in them 9 out of 10 days. Private schools, they are also called independent, imply paid education in them, and the cost depends on the particular institution.

All schools are divided into types depending on the age of the children. The general scheme of education is as follows:

1. Institutions for preschoolers: classes are formed from children from 3 to 5 years old.
2. Primary school: age category of children from 5 to 11 years old;
3. Secondary school: students from 11 to 18.
4. Colleges, universities (high school).

There is no need to pay for education in a state institution. About how much it costs to get an education in boarding schools, and what is the cost per year, you need to check on the official website of a particular institution.

Most Russian citizens who prefer choose the best boarding schools in the UK (Eton, Ashford, Brighton) for their children: pay for summer courses to improve a foreign language and choose a specific school.

The system of educational institutions of the state type

Most often, publicly funded schools are dominated by mixed groups, that is, the institution is designed for both girls and boys. This is especially true for the elementary level of education. Government-controlled schools in the UK may follow a particular religion. There are schools that accept only Catholics or English people.

All schools in the country follow the general program educational requirements, take a responsible approach to the issue of preparing children for passing tests in accordance with their age.

What are the conditions for admission to English educational institutions? Local residents apply for training, are interviewed. For foreign citizens, including Russians, the requirements are similar. The only condition is that if the child is under 16 years old, then the parents must be in England for any of the (more than six months).

Otherwise, the child will be allowed to study only in private boarding schools, the cost of education in which is set by the school itself.

Disciplinary measures in all schools are varied. As a rule, the punishment for disobedience, being late or talking in class is an additional homework or work with educational materials during the change. The punishment for serious misconduct is the summoning of parents, suspension from studies for a while, or expulsion.

Private boarding schools

Among independent schools in the UK, the most common boarding schools are girls-only or colleges where boys study, for example, Eton or Badminton. The peculiarity of these institutions is that they independently approve educational and methodological programs and decide whether students will be tested for compliance with the generally accepted educational course.

Private boarding houses are characterized by small class sizes (as a rule, no more than 12 people study in one class). For children, an individual approach is provided, the teacher pays a lot of attention to each student. Regardless of whether it is a primary or secondary school, private educational institutions can be of 2 types: “boarding school” or “boarding school”.

A five-day boarding school is a training of 5 days with two days off for which students go home. If educational institution type "boarding" (Eton, Badminton), then both lessons and accommodation take place on the territory of the institution. Students can go home for the summer holidays. The best boarding schools accept girls and boys of 11 years of age, and in some educational institutions admission begins from the age of 9.

Education in boarding schools includes 3 semesters: lessons are held in autumn, spring and even summer. Between all semesters, vacations are provided - long in time, like Easter, summer or Christmas, as well as short ones (the second name is half). The latter begin in the middle of each semester.

Training starts at the beginning of September and ends at summer season... How long does it take academic year depends on the type of school and the program provided. Unlike municipal institutions, which end the year almost at the end of July, private schools set their own deadlines. In most institutions, the interval for the end of the academic year is the end of June - the 20th of July. Summer holidays last about 1.5 months. Christmas can be extended, as well as Easter.

English primary education in public institutions

Modern English primary schools accept children from the age of 4 years. The training lasts 7 years. In some cities of the country there are institutions like kindergartens (students under 6 years old), as well as junior schools where children at the age of seven study for 4 years.

You can get into elementary school (preparatory class) if you have the appropriate papers: parents will be required to fill out an application six months before the start of the first semester.

The best state-type elementary schools cannot fully guarantee the continuation of a child's education in this institution, even if he ended up in a preschool class owned by the institution. As a rule, new elementary schools with a good reputation are overcrowded, so how many vacancies there are and what are the requirements for admission should be clarified before the start of the school year.

Each school for girls and boys under the age of 11 covers a specific area nearby. Children living in the territory belonging to the institution are accepted without waiting in line. A list of microdistricts and a description of the requirements is available on the official websites of all schools.

The requirements for entering a church school are the child's belonging to a particular denomination, as well as attendance at a Sunday church belonging to the corresponding educational institution. In addition, parents are required to come to church services 2-3 times a month for 2 years prior to the date of application for admission of a child to a religious school.

Private boarding houses for children under 11 years old

In the sector of independent education, the education of children up to 7 years old is called pre-preparatory, and students from 7 to 11 are engaged in preparatory institutions. After the children successfully pass the test, they can move on to the next educational level - secondary school. To date, there are very few old traditional institutions such as Harrow or Eton.

Every year the number of pre-preparatory and preparatory educational institutions increases, now there are more than 1000 of them. Each school has its own requirements and conditions. Can be different:

• admission conditions;
• curriculum: lessons, courses, educational and recreational activities;
• the cost of education per year;
• duration of summer and Christmas holidays;
• discipline: punishment and encouragement of students.

Many parents are faced with the problem of lack of places in the guesthouse of interest. This is due to the demand for education in a particular educational institution, its reputation and elitism. Registration of a student in certain schools of the country takes place even before the baby is born or from the moment of conception.

Most often, children pass special exams upon admission, according to the results of which the administration of the educational institution decides whether to enroll the child or not.

Secondary education in public institutions in England

An English secondary school is a place where students who have reached the age of 11 study. Institutions can be built on a blended learning system or a separate one, where boys and girls are educated separately from each other. The highest level of discipline (serious punishment for misbehavior and worthy encouragement for achieving success) and excellent educational results are distinguished by church schools of various religious denominations in the UK.

In addition, there are secondary selective educational institutions. The full classification of secondary schools financed from the state budget is as follows:

1. A gymnasium where students are recruited according to a certain number of test scores, a well-written essay. The main subjects on which special emphasis is placed are logic and mathematics.
2. School of general education type. Receipt takes place according to the territorial affiliation.
3. Confessional institution. The condition for admission is regular church visits by both the child and his parents.
4. General educational selective school. Admission is partly based on the territorial basis of belonging to the school, and partly on the basis of sports training, ability to draw or music.

There are special boarding schools where the education of children is paid for by the local government. A description of the criteria by which schoolchildren are admitted can be seen on the website of the boarding school you like. In general, it is important how much the child needs this form of education, and how it corresponds to it. First of all, recruitment is carried out according to the territorial affiliation to the boarding school.

Find good school state type for children over 11 years old is quite difficult compared to primary schools. According to the generally accepted opinion, gymnasiums are considered the best, which affects the overcrowding of these institutions at the beginning of the academic year. V a good gymnasium There can be up to 12 applicants per seat. First of all, those 11-year-old children who have revealed more abilities or talents in a certain area go through.

Children in England are required by law to attend school between the ages of 5 and 16, but many begin earlier (at age 3) and continue to study until they are 18 (until they enter a college or university). Nine out of ten children in the UK go to schools owned by state system education (these educational institutions are funded by the government). The rest of the children are educated in private schools (also called "independent" schools), while the more exclusive private schools, such as Eton or Harrow, are referred to as "public schools", but they should not be confused with public schools, since education in such public schools schools, of course, is not free. Schools are categorized by student age and are named slightly differently in the public and private (independent) education systems. However, in general the education system in the UK consists of:

• preschool institutions (where children aged 3-4 years are trained);
• primary schools (age of pupils is from 4 to 11 years);
• secondary schools (students aged 11-18) and
• higher educational institutions and colleges (18+).

Most public schools, especially at the primary level, have mixed classes for both girls and boys. These schools can either be non-denominational schools or belong to one of the popular denominations (for example, Catholic schools, Anglican schools, Jewish schools, etc.). All public elementary schools are required to adhere to the requirements of the national curriculum, approved by the government, and prepare students for testing at various stages of education according to their age.

Any child between the ages of 5 and 16 has the right to attend a public school in the UK while their parents are in the country on a long-term visa (i.e. any visa that lasts more than 6 months - work, student, business visa, etc. .d.). If the parents are outside the UK, children under 16 can only be educated in private boarding schools.

In the independent education sector, there may be girls-only and boys-only schools, although there is an increasing trend towards blended learning. Unlike public sector schools, private schools have the right to approve their own curricula and decide for themselves whether their students will take tests against the national curriculum. A growing number of schools are opting not for the National Curriculum - meaning that private school students are enrolled in much less restrictive and more varied curricula. These programs are not overloaded with constant testing and are not limited by the requirement to follow a well-defined course. In addition, class sizes in private schools are usually smaller than those in public elementary schools, usually with no more than 15 students. Therefore, teachers can devote more time and attention to the individual needs of each student.

Private schools can be either "day" schools, or "five-day boarding schools" (students stay at the school five days a week and then go home for the weekend) or "boarding schools" (in these types of schools, children go home only for the holidays) . In most cases, the age of students in five-day boarding schools and boarding schools starts at the age of 11, but some educational institutions also accept children 7-9 years old.

The academic year is divided into three semesters (autumn, spring and summer), in between which students have a vacation. English holidays are quite long between semesters (usually called Christmas and Easter holidays) and short ("half") in the middle of the semester. The academic year begins in early September and ends in the summer, and the end of the academic year in public and private schools may vary. All public schools end the school year closer to July 20, however, private schools have the right to decide this issue at their discretion, so they can end the school year on any day from the end of June to the end of July. It is also quite common for private school authorities to extend the Christmas and Easter breaks, and the start and end dates for private school half breaks can vary from school to school.

PRESCHOOL EDUCATION - FROM 3 TO 4 YEARS

This is the age at which English children can (but are not required to) start their preschool education. Preschool classes are analogues kindergarten, the emphasis is on group work, creative activity and themed games. However, unlike kindergarten, the child is in such a preschool class only 3 hours a day, from nine in the morning to noon or from twelve to three.

Public pre-school education is available only for children from three years old, so the child can go to pre-school class both at the beginning of the fall semester, and in spring or summer (depending on the date when he turns 3 years old). The admissions process for public preschool depends on the requirements approved by the local authorities (i.e. depending on which region of England the child lives in) and may differ significantly from region to region. At the same time, it must be remembered that in some regions of the UK, local authorities require that applications for admission to the pre-school class be applied for a year before the child reaches the required age for admission. Failure to file by the due date may result in the child not being placed in a preschool class at a good primary school and placed on the waiting list.

A child can start private preschool as young as two years old, and the admissions process can vary markedly (with some private schools requiring preschool applications before the child is born).
PRIMARY EDUCATION - FROM 4-6 TO 7-11(13) YEARS

Public Education/Public School System

In the public school system, children begin primary school at the age of four. In some areas, there are still separate "children's schools" (for children from 4 to 6 years old), after which the child goes to "junior school" (for children from 7 to 11 years old), but in most primary schools in modern England, children study from 4 to 11 years old.

A child enters Kindergarten (the so-called first-year class in elementary school) when they are 4 years old and if their parents have submitted the appropriate application on time, that is, within 6 months before the start of the semester (Kindergarten usually starts every six months ). Unfortunately, getting a place for a child in a good public preschool class (which is usually found in elementary schools) does not guarantee that he will be able to study in the same institution in the future when it comes time for admission to elementary school. And although there are many very good public primary schools in England, the number of not so good schools, unfortunately, is even greater. Therefore, it is not surprising that all good primary schools are usually overcrowded.

As a rule, in order to place a child in a public elementary school of their choice, it is necessary to live as close as possible to the school building (and in any case within the neighborhood covered by the relevant school). Admission criteria can vary from school to school, so it is important to first find out the rules for admission to a particular school that parents like. Admission to a church school almost always requires a child to belong to the appropriate denomination and attend Sunday school at the church with which the educational institution is affiliated. His parents, in turn, must attend church at least twice a month for two years before applying.

Education between the ages of 4 and 6 in England is called "Stage 1": children enter kindergarten at age 4, move from kindergarten to first year at age 5, and then continue at age 6 in second year year of study.

At the age of seven, the child begins "Stage 2" and the corresponding education: children move to the third year of education with a further annual transition to the next (respectively, 4, 5 and 6) grade. It is at this stage that some children move from children's school to junior school, however, in most cases this process is very simple, since most children's schools are directly connected to junior schools located nearby.

This period of time is considered successful for changing schools, as often in elementary school there are slightly more places than in a children's school. The admissions process here is broadly similar to the admissions process for kindergarten, so it's important to live as close to the school as possible (or attend church regularly if it's a church school).

Independent education / private school system

The equivalent of a children's school in the independent education sector is called a "pre-preparatory school" (for children from 4 to 6-8 years old), followed by a "preparatory" school (in which children study until the age of 11-13).

The history of the word "preparatory" has its roots in the independent schools of England until the early 20th century, whose original purpose was to prepare students for admission to public schools on a competitive basis - after successfully passing the general examination at the age of 11, 12 or 13 years. However, now the scope of independent education in the UK has increased significantly, and today schools have become much more flexible in their approach to meeting the needs of students and their parents. The phrase "public school" is usually used to refer to the old traditional school, such as Eton or Harrow, of which there are not so many in the UK. However, there are now quite a few private schools in England, and the term "independent school" has become more general - today the independent education sector in the UK has more than 1000 "pre-preparatory" and "preparatory" schools.

The admission process at different private schools can vary significantly.

Enrollment in some pre-preparatory and preparatory private schools is as simple as registering your child at a local educational institution (although sometimes such registration must be done before the child is born, and for some of the most popular private schools, immediately after conception).

In order to be admitted to other independent schools, children must pass entrance examinations.

Less than 3 or 4 years of age most pre-prep private schools will simply want to talk to the child and their parents before making an admission decision. Often, school representatives invite parents to “interview” with the child, so that the baby spends half a day in a regular classroom, and school staff observe him (you need to make sure that the child fits into the environment, consisting of children about his age).

For applicants aged 7 or 8 or an older school may offer to take an entrance examination before considering an application for admission. In most cases, the focus is on English language, but general knowledge and progress in mathematics may also be assessed. There are no clear standards here, so it is necessary to make inquiries at the relevant schools well in advance of admission, and exams at most good preparatory schools are not easy to call.

Eight years in general, it is traditionally considered the most opportune moment for the transition from "pre-preparatory" to "preparatory" school. The age of eight is also the minimum age threshold after which a child can be admitted to a boarding school.

Even though the secondary school is considered the most important stage of schooling, choosing the right preparatory school is extremely important. If the child's parents have aspirations for a particular high school, they will probably try to choose a preparatory school that is a "manpower forge" for the chosen high school. And parents choosing the right secondary school is arguably the single most important decision in determining a child's future - not too long ago, researchers found that just five schools in England produced more students for Oxford and Cambridge in three years than nearly 2,000 other schools combined. !

Age eight is key for those considering an elite independent high school option. You may be assured that this is just a matter of verbal and non-verbal logic test scores for which there is no way to prepare. But the ever-increasing number of books, websites, and training companies promising to pass the so-called “11+ exam” (the exam that students take at the end of elementary school) demonstrates how blatantly and universally this advice is ignored. Admission to secondary schools for boys is possible from the age of 13, but the queue should be taken from the age of ten. If Eton, Radley and similar institutions are at the top of your list, you should start organizing visits as soon as the child turns 8. There are both official and unofficial criteria for selecting students, and it is worth considering all of them.

Ten is the ideal age for enrolling a child in most other independent private high schools. By this point, both the parents and the school (if it has been chosen correctly) will have a clear idea not only of what area the child is most talented in, but also of the type of environment that will be most suitable for him. To choose the right school for your child, make the most of every opportunity to get to know the school. The days will help you with this open doors- they will become Starting point and allow you to feel the spirit of the school.

SECONDARY EDUCATION - FROM 11 TO 13 YEARS

Public Education/Public School System

Eleven years of age for most public school students becomes the milestone that marks the end of elementary school and the transition to high school.

Most public secondary schools are blended, but there are also whole line public schools exclusively "for boys" or "for girls". Such schools can be either non-denominational or ecclesiastical (Catholic, Anglican, Jewish, etc.), and it is often the ecclesiastical schools that show the best learning outcomes and a much higher level of discipline. There are also a number of selective institutions at the high school level.

Basically, all public high schools can be divided into:

1. Comprehensive schools (enrollment in which is usually determined by the distance from the student's home to the school gate);
2. Partially selective general education schools(a certain percentage of students are accepted based on test and/or exam scores in music, athletics or art; the rest of students are accepted based on distance from home to school);
3. Gymnasiums (students are recruited solely on the basis of test results - as a rule, in mathematics and logic (verbal and non-verbal), and sometimes an essay is included in this list);
4. Church schools (to be enrolled in school, the child must be a faithful parishioner, take part in masses with their parents for several years before enrollment).

There is also a certain number of public boarding schools, where education is financed by the government, but accommodation is paid by the parents. Enrollment in these schools is usually based on a range of criteria that vary by school, although in general public boarding schools recruit students based on how much they need (and fit) that particular form of education. Of no small importance is the place of residence of the child (preference is given to local students).

Unlike elementary schools, where you can find a lot of really good institutions, finding a good high school is not an easy task. Gymnasiums are generally recognized as the best public secondary schools. Therefore, competition in enrolling in a gymnasium is usually quite tough (in the most popular gymnasiums, more than 10 applicants can apply for one place!) And only the most talented and capable are enrolled.

Independent education / private school system

As in the public school system, at the age of 11, many students change school from "preparatory" to an independent high school (although, unlike public schools, there are quite a few schools in the private sector that offer education from 4 or 7 years to 18) .

In some schools (mainly schools where only boys study), education begins only at the age of 13. If parents are planning to send their child to one of these types of schools (often elite schools such as Eton or Harrow), it is important to choose the right preparatory school at the right time, which will not only allow the child to continue learning until the child is 13 years old , but will also provide high-quality preparation for the general entrance exams "13+", which is considered a more serious test than the exam "11+".

The General Entrance Examination is used to assess the knowledge of students who move from a "preparatory" school to an independent high school at ages 11+ and 13+. The exam is conducted by an independent committee from the school board. Exam tasks are developed by examiners appointed by the school board. Responses are assessed by the independent high school the student plans to transfer to. All students must pass mandatory exams in the core school subjects - mathematics, English and science. In addition, in most independent high schools, applicants must submit test results in geography, history, religious studies, and a foreign language. Applicants for admission usually take the general examination at their school (in the UK or abroad). If English is not a student's first language, the student may use bilingual dictionaries during the math and science or humanities exam. He also has the right to use up to 25% of extra time if he has not studied at an English language school for more than 2 years.

Scholarship applicants are determined by an independent high school (they take the relevant exam at the selected high school). Schools set different test standards for admission. Some schools use their own tests. As a rule, the principal of a prep school (we are talking about a good prep school, of course) knows what to look for in order to get into one or another high school.

All required information, enrollment forms and general curriculum for independent high schools must be received in advance and it is very important not to miss the registration deadline - in some schools it can be 3 years before the exams are taken.
SECONDARY EDUCATION - FROM 14 TO 16 YEARS

The period when preparation for the GCSE begins.

GCSE (“general certificate of secondary education”) is an academic qualification level obtained in a number of school subjects by secondary school students aged 14-16 (in England, Wales and Northern Ireland). Some students may take an exam in one or more subjects earlier or later than the generally accepted deadline (most Russian students take the Russian language proficiency exam immediately after enrolling in high school). The international version of the GCSE is the IGCSE, which can be taken anywhere in the world and includes additional language and coursework options. Some schools in the UK are now opting to use the IGCSE as an alternative to the GCSE, but this practice has not yet become widespread and there is no evidence to suggest that either type of exam is preferred for admission to top universities.

In secondary schools, the GCSE exam is taken in various subjects, which, as a rule, were chosen for study by the students themselves at the end of the 9th year of study. Selected subjects in the GCSE preparation program begin in year 10 (ages 14-15), although some subjects start earlier (such as math, English and science, as the programs in these subjects are too large to fit in standard 2 years). The final exam is taken at the end of the 11th year of study (at the age of 15-16). The number of subjects that students study at the GCSE preparation level may vary. Usually there are from 8 to 10, but often students choose more or fewer subjects to study.

At the end of the two-year GCSE preparation course, students receive a grade in each of their chosen subjects. Passing points, from highest to lowest, are: A* (highest score with honors), A, B, C, D, E, F, G; a U score indicates that the student has not qualified.

The GCSE exam is part of the national qualification system. Gained at the GCSE exam D-G ​​scores denote 1 skill level, while A*-C scores denote the second. It is not surprising that students who receive level 2 qualifications (A * -C) will be more successful applicants, because most universities do not even consider any scores below C (although it should be added that even a C score is unacceptable when entering a good university, and better academic institutions accept only applicants with A* and A scores).
Students who fail the exam receive a U score, respectively, this subject is not included in the certificate.

In many subjects, there are 2 different levels of exams available:

• Higher, passing which you can get points A * -E, or U
• Basic, meaning C-G, or U.

In most schools, students are divided into performance groups for individual subjects, and only a few top-performing groups study the subject to the extent that they can be examined at the highest level. The rest of the students follow the program corresponding to the basic level of difficulty of the exam. You can sometimes hear about how a bright student fell into one of the lower performance groups, for example, in mathematics (because he felt bad on the day he took the ability test, or, which happens much more often, being a foreigner, not quite correctly understood the essence of the task). Then, during the course, he was one of the best students in the class - and at the same time, as a result, he still could not get a score above C (which means that the doors of the best universities are closed to him), since the tasks of the basic level of complexity differed from the tasks of the highest level.

Accordingly, an important task for the parents of the child (and for himself) is to control the level of the group in which he was identified, and the depth of study of the subject, according to which examination tasks will be offered.

Public Education/Public School System

In public secondary schools, the GCSE preparation course is compulsory in all subjects considered core (i.e. math, English, science and physical education). Also, students must study some form of ICT (information and communication technology) and social science, although there are no exams in these subjects.
Accordingly, almost all students take the GCSE exam in English, mathematics and science. In addition, many schools also require students to take a course in English Literature, one of the modern foreign languages, at least one design and technology course, religious studies (often a shortened, "half-course" course) and information and communication technology. The remaining free part of their schedule, the students fill in at their choice in such a way that in total there are about 10 subjects. You can choose to take abbreviated GCSE preparation courses or other qualifications, although this option is not recommended for students planning to attend university.
Independent education / private school system

Private schools are not required to comply with the National Curriculum, which is mandatory for all public schools. They usually approve their own list of required subjects for GCSE preparation, which usually includes English language and literature, mathematics, biology, chemistry, physics and a foreign language. Most private schools offer a wide range of CGSE preparation subjects to choose from, including various foreign languages ​​(usually French, German, Spanish or rarer varieties such as Russian, Arabic, Latin or Greek), history, geography, computer science, religious studies, design, art, music, drama.

The start of GCSE preparation is the last chance to change schools for a child whose parents are dissatisfied with the level of preparation at the school where he studies, since a good school only in exceptional cases accepts new students in the middle of studying the GCSE course. Private schools differ significantly from each other, so it is very important to choose a good school for your child from the very beginning.

SECONDARY EDUCATION - FROM 17 TO 18 YEARS

At present, secondary education is considered compulsory in England until the age of 16, however, many students continue their education after reaching the minimum graduation age, preparing for the so-called "Level A" or IB (International School Baccalaureate).

Sixteen is the right age to go to college or to move from one school to another. For girls who attended an all-girls school, this is a good time to move to a blended school. Boys can also change schools at this stage of their education, but usually the choice is for a course of study - linear or modular (such as preparation for "Level A" or IB).

Level A(Advanced Certificate of Secondary Education) is the highest school qualification offered by schools in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. The Level A course of study takes 2 years and is considered the standard for assessing the suitability of students for subsequent academic study at universities in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Students who take the A-level exam receive grades A*, A, B, C, D, and E.

There is a distinct difference between the "traditional" Level A preparation course (such as math and English) and the new, most professionally oriented course (implying an in-depth study of business and media strategies, psychology, law and accounting) . There is also a noticeable difference between linear (two years with exams at the end) and modular courses.
The modular course consists of 4 (or 6 for natural sciences) modules studied over 2 years. Typically, 2 modules are assessed in the first year of study and are considered a stand-alone qualification called the "AS Level" (or Auxiliary Advanced Level). The remaining 2 modules are assessed at the end of the second year of study, making up "Level A2". "Level A2" itself is not a qualification, to confirm the full qualification of "Level A" in any subject, it is necessary to pass exams at levels AS and A2. To assess knowledge in modules, examination tasks prepared by national organizations and term papers intended for internal assessment are used.

The number of exams that students take to obtain "Level A" may vary. The standard course of study consists of studying 4 subjects in the first year of preparation, and then studying three of them at the A2 level (although some students continue to study all 4 chosen subjects). Three subjects is the minimum number required to enter the university; some universities require AS level preparation in the fourth subject. There is no limit on the number of subjects studied, some students study 5 or more subjects at the A qualification level (although this depends on the school - some schools do not allow students to study more than 4 subjects). Some schools allow the study of one or more subjects in a foreign language (subject to the child's fluency in this language), as well as the study of the subject simultaneously in two languages ​​- English and a foreign language.

IB Program (International Baccalaureate Preparation Program) is a two-year educational program that allows you to obtain an international qualification for admission to higher education institutions (recognized by universities around the world). It was developed in the mid-60s in Geneva by an international group of educators. Currently, training in accordance with this program is available in English, French and Spanish. To qualify, students must attend a school that offers IB education. As part of the qualification, students' knowledge is assessed in 6 subjects from 6 different thematic groups. Both internal and external assessments are used, and the training is completed by an external examination series, usually consisting of two or three time-limited written examinations. The method of internal assessment may vary depending on the subject (this may be an oral presentation, practical work or written work). In most cases, assessment is initially done by the teacher teaching the subject in a particular class (later, their grades are checked or adjusted as necessary by an independent external moderator).

Overall, the IB program has been very well received. She was recognized as being able to "develop interdisciplinary thinking in students." In the UK, the Guardian newspaper declared the IBDP to be "an academically more complex and broader program than 3 or 4 subjects to the A qualification level". The IB program is predominantly offered by private schools in the independent education sector; only one public school in the UK currently offers IB training to its students.

The right choice of school at this age is especially important, as the student and his parents strive to choose the best course of study that provides the student with ample opportunities for choice and is most suitable for practical application.

A wrong decision at this stage can have the most serious consequences for the student's future educational and career prospects. Those who aspire to enroll in Oxbridge (Oxford or Cambridge) should by all means avoid (with rare exceptions) subjects that have the word “research” in the title or the ending “-gia”. If he is attracted to a career in media technology, a good knowledge of English will surely open more doors than a less burdensome "media studies" course; and a knowledge of economics will provide a firmer basis for entrepreneurial activity than a course in business strategies. Therefore, at this stage, you should be very careful about the choice of individual items and their combinations.

Public Education/Public School System

At this stage, students who decide to receive the qualifying “Level A” can either continue their education at their school (provided that the school can provide the proper level of study of the chosen subjects), or transfer to another school or college-lyceum.

A college lyceum is a typically English educational institution in which students are usually trained to receive a qualifying "Level A". Currently, there are more than 90 colleges of this type in England and Wales. Most of them demonstrate good results, reflected in the national examination rankings. In addition, they offer a much wider range of subjects to study at a more affordable cost than most private high schools.

Independent education / private school system

Almost all private schools offer students an A or IB level of education, and some schools even offer a choice between these qualifying levels. Changing schools and choosing subjects to study is considered common practice for this stage of study, with many universities "taking note" of students from certain schools.

The British are convinced that all the best in our life owes its origin to England. The UK education system, like all English, is considered the standard of quality. At least, the educational systems of other countries are constantly compared with the British. It was formed many centuries ago, and during this time it has not undergone major changes. Distinctive features British schools, for example, it is an "iron" discipline, classical teaching methods, an established educational process, a versatile program to prepare students for life in the business world and society.

Particularly well represented in the UK elite education system.

High-ranking families from around the world try to enroll their children in prestigious British schools or universities, as studying in them guarantees not only the acquisition of deep knowledge, but the acquisition of secular manners, the British style of behavior and wide connections in the world of business and politics.

british system sufficient flexibility. Among the many different training courses, you can always find exactly the one that suits you, and, if desired, the selected subjects can be changed.

Regardless of age, nationality and religion, anyone who successfully passes the entrance examinations can study at educational institutions in the UK (you must pass an international English exam, documents from the school, sometimes pass the test of the educational institution)

Secondary education

Modern education system in the UK consists of four stages: primary (Elementary School), secondary (Secondary School), vocational or post-school (Further Education) and higher (Higher Education).

Preschool education takes place in kindergartens and preschool classes. Primary education is given to children from 5 to 11-12 years old. From the age of 5, children attend two-year schools for toddlers (pre-preparatory school), from 7 to 11 years old - primary schools (primary, elementary or preparatory school). From 11-12 years of age, the stage of secondary education begins for children.

UK has public and private schools... All schools adhere to the same educational minimum. Compulsory free secondary education for schoolchildren under 16 was introduced by law.

School graduates take final exams and receive GCSE certificate of secondary education(General Certificate of Secondary Education). This certificate is sufficient to start self-employment, but does not give the right to enter higher education institutions.

State Schools- free, designed for teaching English children, as well as for foreigners from 8 to 18 years old, whose parents have the right to permanent residence In Great Britain.

International Colleges (International Colleges)- secondary educational institutions that accept only foreign students from 14 to 18 years old. Accommodation is offered both in student dormitories (on the school grounds) and in host families.

V international colleges education is conducted in accordance with the British secondary school system. Subjects taught: mathematics, physics, algebra and geometry, chemistry, biology, geography, human anatomy, sociology, political science, fundamentals of legislation, statistics, history, music, fine arts, computers and programming, English, English literature, fundamentals of religion, one or several foreign languages ​​(French, German, Spanish, etc.).

In addition to the main subjects, each school has additional ones, such as Latin, accounting, business basics, economics, and some others.

International Colleges along with school programs, they offer preparatory programs (Foundation) for university applicants. After successful graduation, graduates are enrolled in universities with which there is an agreement on the recognition of the status of these courses. For foreigners who want to get higher education in the UK, this is a very convenient opportunity.

The main condition for admission to a British university is the presence international certificate for English language.

A year of study in the preparatory courses is good practice and preparation for self-study in English at the university, and, in addition, the opportunity to prepare and pass the required language exam.

Private schools (Independent Schools)- a more prestigious form of education mainly for English children (85%). The percentage of foreign students should be no more than 15%. Children from 8 to 18 years old study in such schools.

Good private schools are independent, well-equipped educational institutions that own about several hundred hectares of land, on the territory of which there are educational buildings, sports facilities, a swimming pool, residences for living. Accommodation is mainly in residence, but some schools offer accommodation in local families.

Public and private boarding schools, as a rule, have a good reputation, a long history and traditions.

Professional education

In addition to schools in Britain, there are Tertiary Colleges that offer professional (Vocational) education and are an alternative to A Level programs.

Professional education, obtained at Tertiary College, assumes a professional activity after graduation, while A Level programs prepare for university entrance.

Educational programs are constantly changing. The qualifications that are awarded at the end of these programs are also changing. Below are the most common professional qualifications.

NVQ (National Vocational Qualification).

This qualification is for practical work... It confirms the ability of a graduate to perform a certain job in a particular area of ​​business or production. NVQ standards are based on the real requirements of employers and reflect their practical needs.

NVQ qualifications are now possible in most areas of manufacturing and commerce. There are 5 levels of NVQ from Foundation Skills (NVQ 1) to Professional (NVQ 5). In order to qualify, it is necessary to show in practice the ability to perform work in accordance with established standards.

The training takes place directly at the workplace. The training program consists of separate modules that can be mastered independently. There is no set period of study during which the program must be completed.

GNVQ (General National Vocational Qualification).

Unlike A Levels, it suits those who are prone to practical activities... The GNVQ, like the NVQ, is a multi-level qualification that provides a foundation of knowledge in the chosen field that the student can use to continue their studies at colleges of further education, university entrance (GNVQ Advanced) or employment. The Advanced level requires nearly two years of study to complete.

ND (National Diploma).

This qualification is similar to the GNVQ Advanced qualification. Colleges of Further Education (Colleges of Further Education) allow you to complete a program of further education, culminating in exams and the issuance of the highest national diploma (Higher National Diploma, the common abbreviation - HND).

HND can be obtained after two years of study in almost any academic or professional specialty.

In the field of vocational education, diplomas issued by one of the three main examination committees are most highly valued and recognized: the CGLI (City & Guilds of London Institute) diploma, the RSA (Royal Society of Arts) diploma, and the BTEC (Business and Technical Education Council) diploma. Many colleges are authorized to issue degrees on behalf of one of these examination boards.

Other institutions issue either their own diplomas and certificates or diplomas from other examination committees. The HND diploma is of the greatest importance for those who are going to immediately engage in professional activities, after receiving a bachelor's degree.

From the point of view of a professional career, this diploma allows you to move up the career ladder within the middle technical or junior management of a company, enterprise, institution.

Diploma allows you to enter the university in one of the programs leading to a bachelor's degree and receive a degree in just two years.

To enroll in HND programs, you must have a GCE / A Level, GNVQ Advanced, or National Diploma certificate of secondary education.

The definition of "Further Education" in the UK refers to professional education not leading to a degree or its equivalent. The definition of "higher education" (Higher Education) in the UK refers to programs whose purpose is to award a degree (Degree): Bachelor Degree, Master Degree or Doctoral (Doctoral or PhD Degree).

Higher education

In England and Wales, a bachelor's degree requires three years of study, in Scotland four. In the case when obtaining a degree requires not only study, but also industrial practice (Sandwich courses), the total period will be correspondingly extended.

At some universities and colleges, those students who intend to earn a degree in some specific field, such as art and design, are required to first take a basic course, and then spend three years in their chosen field.

Training course ending with a bachelor's degree, in fields such as medicine, dentistry and architecture, usually lasts up to seven years.

Bachelor degree... There are several options for the bachelor's degree awarded in the UK. Their name depends on the specialization. The four main degrees are Bachelor of Arts BA (Bachelor of Arts), Bachelor of Science BSC (Bachelor of Science), Bachelor of Engineering BENG (Bachelor of Engineering), Bachelor of Law LLB (Bachelor of Law). There is also a Bachelor of Medicine and Dentistry.

The bachelor's degree is awarded after three or four years of specialized full-time study at a university or college. The British Bachelor's degree is recognized all over the world, which gives high chances for a successful professional career in any country. Bachelor Degree is the first step higher education... The second step is Master Degree.

Postgraduate Courses... This level of education begins after a bachelor's degree and leads to a master's and doctoral degree.

Master's Degree... There are two types of programs: programs focused on research activities and programs focused on professional development in one of the specializations.

As a rule, master's programs consist of a course of lectures and seminars, exams are taken, then students make a graduation project. Based on the results of examinations and the defense of a thesis, a master's degree is awarded.

Master's research degree (Research) is called the Master of Philosophy M.Phil (Master of Philosophy). This degree is obtained after 1-2 years of independent scientific work under the guidance of a supervisor. Based on the results of this work, a master's degree is awarded.

Doctor's Degree (Doctor of Philosophy - Doctoral or PhD Degree)... In the UK, most doctoral programs are purely research projects. No lectures or training seminars are usually held.

The supervisor, in whose laboratory or department the student is preparing to receive a doctoral degree, determines the topic of scientific research for the student and provides the opportunities necessary for research (workplace, equipment and materials).

It takes 2-3 years to complete a research program. By the end of this period, the student must publish the results obtained in official reports, in scientific or specialized journals and write a dissertation based on published materials. The doctoral degree is awarded after successfully defending a dissertation.

TEN- a group (association) of independent British schools with a very high reputation operating in the market educational services over 30 years.

The Association was founded in 2010 to carry out joint marketing activities and exchange of experience, which improves the quality of work of school personnel with foreign students.

TEN member schools are located in ten different UK cities: London, Cambridge, Eastbourne, Brighton, Bournemouth, Torquay, Bristol, Oxford and Chester.

BEET Language Center- a small "chamber" school, founded in 1979, is located in the city of Bournemouth. Highly qualified teaching staff ensures the quality of education. A center for the training of teachers of English as a foreign language has been established on the basis of the school. www.beet.co.uk

Cambridge Academy of English- the school was founded in 1975, is located on the outskirts of Cambridge, offers quality English programs for foreign students, specialized programs such as English + business, English + law, academic English (preparation for the university).

In the summer, on the basis of private boarding schools Moreton Hall and Princes Helena College, it offers interesting and high-quality programs for students from 9 to 17 years old. www.cabridgeacademy.co.uk

Eastbourne School of English- one of the oldest language schools in the UK, founded in 1936. Located in the heart of the resort town of Eastbourne, where there are many restaurants, cafes, three theaters, a cinema and a lot of greenery. All year round accepts foreign students over 18 years old. The school is a center for the training of teachers of English as a foreign language. www.esoe.co.uk

Excel English- the school offers quality programs for students accredited by the British Council, and the combination of professional teachers and excellent technical equipment allows students to master the material in the shortest possible time.

Here you can see modernized classrooms, a combination of green and yellow color has a positive effect on the psychological state of students and the comprehensibility of the material. The school is located in one of the expensive residential areas of London, with gardens where you can relax after school. www.excelenlish.co.uk

English in Chester School founded in 1976 as a medium-sized private school, of which there are many in the UK. As a rule, this is a family business that guarantees you quality in everything from training and accommodation to interesting leisure activities. There is only one reason for this - the desire of the owners that you like it, and you would like to return.

Here is a wonderful habitat, a good national composition. At the same time, students from Italy, Switzerland, Spain, Germany, France, North Korea, the Czech Republic and Russia study here. www.english-in-chester.co.uk

Oxford English Center- the school was founded in 1979, located in an old building in the heart of Oxford, close to university colleges, well equipped (interactive whiteboards in the classroom), is an authorized TOEIC, BULATS (business) reception center. Here students can study General English and English for professional purposes. www.oxfordenglish.co.uk

The English Language Centre, Brighton– the school was founded in 1962 as an independent educational institution. 2012 marks the 50th anniversary of its founding. Located in an old building of the Victorian era in the white-stone resort of Brighton, on the coast.

Offers quality programs for adult students throughout the year, is an authorized admission center for TOEIC BULATS. www.elc-brighton.co.uk

The English Language Centre, Bristol- a small family school, located in two old buildings near Clifton University in Bristol. Beautiful bright classrooms, a well-equipped computer laboratory enable students to master the material well.

The school offers wide choose English language programs for foreign students. Provides an individual approach to each student. www.elcbristol.co.uk

Torquay International School, Torquay- the school has existed for 40 years, located in the wonderful seaside town of the same name on the British Riviera in Devon. Accepts students from the age of 16. Special attention focuses on teaching English for professional purposes, including business English, English for finance professionals.

Organizes an interesting program of active events in the afternoon. Provides an individual approach to each student. www.tisenglish.co.uk

Wimbledon School of English- a small building in one of the districts of London - Wimbledon, surrounded by a wonderful garden, a 5-minute walk from Wimbledon station.

Technical equipment (interactive whiteboards in almost every class) in combination with highly qualified teachers ensures high results when moving from level to level.

Offers English for professionals, preparation for international exams in English, courses for teachers.