Primary, secondary education in London 2024

Schools in London are most popular secondary schools in UK. Studying in best primary and secondary schools in London is classified according to certain criteria, and one of the main is the age of students. So, best schools in London are full cycle and classical: in the first are children aged 3 to 18 years, the second are students:

• from the age of 7 (Junior schools), the educational programme provides for preparation for Common Entrance Examination, according to which children are admitted to senior classes,
• from 11 years (Secondary schools). They are divided, in turn, into regular and Grammar schools, the latter offer educational programs with in-depth study of subjects.

After grade 8, 9, 10 students enter the GCSE programme. They receive a certificate of incomplete secondary school education. After the 10th grade, it is possible to apply for the A-level programme - a 2-year course with the most top-ranked and prestigious universities in London and throughout the UK. After the 11th grade foreign students can take one-year Foundation programme of pre-university preparation.

The educational institutions are classified as a whole and by type of instruction. In the capital there are mainly mixed educational institutions.

All modern language schools in London, regardless of type and specialization, have all necessary technical resources to support the learning process. But the main pride of educational institutions are pedagogical collectives - teachers use individual approach to each student that increases their exam results.

The education system in England, specifically in London, offers a well-rounded experience for students. Secondary schools in London have a curriculum designed to engage young learners both academically and personally. Not only do they offer a strong academic foundation, but they also incorporate diverse activities for personality development like sports and creative pursuits. Usually, academic classes such as language lessons are held in the morning, while the afternoons are dedicated to extracurricular activities, including sports and creative endeavors. Boarding school students have the added benefit of participating in events organized by the institution, such as excursions, museum visits, and exploratory walks around central London. Evening time is also thoughtfully planned with recreational activities, providing an opportunity for students to interact and unwind.

London School Assessment System

Unlike the grading systems found in many other countries, including the U.S., the evaluation in UK primary schools emphasizes not just correct answers but the effort and willingness to express an opinion. Instead of numerical grades, schools in the UK use letter grades like A, B, C, D, and E. This approach tends to boost students' motivation to learn.

Academic Calendar in London Schools

Although the start dates may vary from one institution to another, the educational year for most schools in London begins in the first week of September. The academic year is generally divided into several terms:

• September-December

• January-March

• April-July

Between these terms, students get one-week seasonal breaks and a longer summer vacation.

Anna Chebotar

Regional Manager CIS

What does make British schools so special for families around the world?

British Secondary School gives children the opportunity to try different subjects during GCSE programs (high school course for children aged 14-15) and determine the priority direction for themselves when entering the university. Moreover, the certificate of the British school gives the opportunity to enter the most famous and respected universities in the world, including Oxford, Cambridge, Harvard, MIT, etc. At the same time, the educational model at secondary schools in England teaches children to think critically, work with information correctly, organize their time, and approach any issues structurally. And, of course, a teacher in England is a friend who helps to maximize the child's potential, work with his strengths. The student is listened to, his opinion is important.

If you're considering sending your child to one of the best schools in London, they should have at least a basic understanding of the English language. Being able to communicate and understand English will help to avoid stress and facilitate a smoother adaptation to the new environment.

Before starting at a new school, it's recommended for foreign students to complete a short, two-week preparatory program. This helps in adjusting to the education system in London and could be a summer course based on the British curriculum or another holiday program.

The admission process typically starts with the submission of an application. The school's admissions office will then send a test for the child to take. Based on the results, the list of schools in London ranking the best applicants will be created, and selected students may be called for an interview.

When applying, you'll need to provide a set of documents, all translated into English:

• Copy of the child’s birth certificate and passport

• Previous academic report cards

• Letters of recommendation from Mathematics and English teachers

• An essay from the child explaining why they wish to attend an English schools

Once the necessary documents are collected, parents can complete the registration form on the school's website and submit the document package either electronically or by registered mail. Following this, the waiting game for the application review and subsequent steps begins.

Tuition Fees at the Best Schools in London

Studying at a top private school in London could cost between 18,000 to 30,000 British pounds per year. While this may seem steep, it's important to consider the long-term benefits, including a higher likelihood of gaining admission to a prestigious university and potentially building a successful international career.

By understanding the education landscape, and specifically the schools in London ranking among the top, you can make a more informed decision about your child’s educational journey in the UK.

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