TOP secondary schools in UK
The UK education system is one of the most conservative in the world. This is partly due to its age – the appearance of the first secondary schools in the country and Oxford University dates back to the XII century. From that time to this day, discipline and a high level of teaching quality remain the main distinguishing features of the British educational system. However, this does not mean that it does not undergo any changes. On the contrary, the English education system not only keeps pace with the times, but also often outstrips it: the pursuit of excellence and reverence for traditions here perfectly coexists with the latest educational programs and practices. Private schools in UK invite foreign students aged from 11 to 16 years old to obtain secondary education. Until the age of 14, the students study a wide range of general education subjects. From the age of 14, subjects are usually determined selectively – depending on the interests of the student and his plans for further education. Students aged 14-16 can choose a GCSE program, at the end of which they receive a certificate of general secondary education. This course in TOP secondary schools in UK focuses on literature and history. At the age of 16, compulsory secondary education ends.
Secondary for foreign students – advantages of studying
TOP secondary schools in the UK are divided into public and private, separate (for girls and boys) and mixed form of studying. There are more than 500 private institutions in the country where children from other countries study.
Below the advantages of studying in secondary schools in the UK are provided:
- In British secondary schools, the students receive relevant academic knowledge and attend numerous additional classes, which allow them to form a harmoniously developed, socially adapted personality.
- In private schools in the UK, the child studies the main program, plays sports, music and other arts on campus, which allows for rational allocation of study time.
- The British diploma of secondary education, recognized all over the world, gives the opportunity to enroll in the best universities.
- Due to the high level of English language teaching, after graduating from high school, schoolchildren from different countries practically do not feel the language barrier.
Secondary schools in the UK – specifics of studying
At the age of 11, the child goes to secondary school. The purpose of this stage is to deepen knowledge and prepare for obtaining a certificate of secondary education GCSE (General Certificate of Secondary Education).
- The first stage (from 11 to 14 years). Children study 10-15 subjects and begin to attend vocational guidance classes.
- The second stage (from 14 to 16 years). Students prepare for GCSE exams, determine their path for the last 2 years of school and choose subjects on the basis of which they will enter the university.
The curriculum consists of compulsory subjects and electives that students can choose independently. Compulsory subjects include: English, mathematics, natural science, computer science, foreign language. Physical education is usually included in the compulsory program. Popular elective classes are as following: economics, accounting, music, theater, dramatic skills. 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. It is noteworthy that educational traditions are especially strong in private schools in the UK for boys.
TOP schools in the UK – ranking of 10 best
- Harrow School
- Eton College
- Winchester College
- Westminster School
- Charterhouse School
- Wycombe Abbey School
- Benenden School
- Gordonstoun
- The King’s School
- St Paul’s School.
TOP secondary schools in UK fees for foreign students
The tuition fee at a British private school will mostly depend on the educational institution: a boarding school or a day school, location in a large city or suburb, the total number of students, extracurricular program and many other factors. On average, for one year of study at a private school in the UK, a the cost of education varies from 20,000 to 25,000 pounds. The cost of a school in England is quite high, but the money and time invested will pay off in the future.
