Primary, secondary education in Oxford 2024

Secondary Schools in Oxford for foreign students

When considering secondary schools in Oxford, it's important to find the right fit for your child's academic goals and interests. Here are some top schools in Oxford that cater to different student profiles:

• d'Overbroeck's College: Ideal for ambitious students with strong academic records, good English skills, and a broad range of interests. These students may not have their future career path fully defined yet but are flexible and open to new experiences.

• Oxford Sixth Form College: Suited for students whose academic performance in their previous school might not have been exceptional, but who are willing to work diligently to improve themselves with the supportive guidance of teachers and mentors. Located in the heart of the city, it offers a vibrant learning environment.

• Oxford International College: The most selective of the three, this school excels in A-level programs, with 60% of its graduates gaining admission to the top five universities in the UK. It's the perfect fit for aspiring students with outstanding academic performance and strong English skills, particularly those planning a future in the medical field.

Preparation programs to Secondary Schools in Oxford for foreign students

• Bellerbys College: Designed for teenagers starting from 14 years old, this college's primary goal is to prepare graduates for successful enrollment in the country's best universities. Accommodations include on-campus living or host family options.

• Wellington College: Located in the suburbs of Oxford, this elite coeducational school accepts gifted boys and girls starting at the age of 13. It offers modern scientific and sports facilities, as well as well-equipped creative studios. Students have the option to choose from a wide range of subjects and live in one of 14 dormitories.

• D'overbroeck's College: As one of the best colleges in North Oxford, it comprises three schools catering to children aged 11 to 18. Half of its 240 students are boarders, while others may choose to live with host families. The curriculum offers a classical education with 35 subjects available through the Sixth Form program. Foreign students aged 15 and above can complete the A-level course in one year.

• Oxford Tutorial College: A leading private sixth form college that specializes in A-level and GCSE programs, preparing students for entrance to prestigious British universities. The school also offers successful exam retake courses.

• St. Clare's Oxford: Pioneering the International Baccalaureate Diploma in the UK since 1977, St. Clare's is known for providing an alternative to traditional A-level programs. Graduates from their IB program frequently go on to attend prestigious UK universities, including Oxford, Cambridge, and the London School of Economics.

Studying at these prestigious secondary and primary schools in Oxford can serve as an excellent foundation for further education at Oxford or other English-speaking universities. These institutions offer both traditional British and international programs, including day-stay and boarding options. For Russian and foreign teenagers, attending a UK high school under programs like GCSE, A-Level, or IB is an effective way to prepare for admission to renowned universities.

Private boarding schools in Oxford provide on-campus accommodation, full board, extracurricular activities, and language support. The small class sizes, often with no more than 15 students, allow teachers to provide individualized attention to each child. The teaching staff at Oxford schools are highly qualified, ensuring students receive the best education possible.

How to apply to Secondary Schools in Oxford for foreign students?

Oxford, renowned for its prestigious university and rich academic heritage, offers an array of secondary schools that attract both domestic and international students. For foreign students eager to study in Oxford, the application process may seem daunting, but with the right preparation and guidance, it can be straightforward.

Firstly, you'll need to identify which secondary schools you are interested in. Oxford boasts a mix of state schools, private schools (often referred to as "public" schools in the UK), and boarding schools. Each type of school will have its own specific application process and requirements. Generally, most schools will require evidence of the student's academic

abilities, typically in the form of recent school reports or transcripts. For non-English speaking students, schools may also request an English language proficiency test, such as IELTS or TOEFL, to ensure the student can comfortably engage with the curriculum.

Once you've chosen the schools you wish to apply to, it's essential to contact the admissions office of each institution directly or visit their official websites for specific application details. Many schools will have an international admissions team that's accustomed to guiding foreign students through the process. Some schools may require students to sit for an entrance exam or attend an interview, either in person or virtually. Additionally, foreign students will likely need to secure a Tier 4 (Child) student visa to study in the UK, unless they are from a country that doesn't require it. This visa process involves having a confirmed place at a school, proving financial sustainability, and providing other necessary documents.

Lastly, it's a good idea to visit the schools if possible or attend their open days. This gives students and parents a feel for the school environment, curriculum, and facilities. Additionally, joining forums or communities related to studying in Oxford can provide invaluable insights and advice from other international students and families who have gone through the same journey. With diligent research and preparation, foreign students can smoothly navigate the application process and embark on a rewarding educational journey in Oxford.

Secondary Schools in Oxford. Cost and Fee for foreign students 

Oxford, a city known globally for its academic excellence, is home to a variety of secondary schools that cater to both domestic and international students. For foreign students considering studying in Oxford, understanding the cost and fee structures of these institutions is crucial to making an informed decision.

State schools in the UK are primarily funded by the government and are free for domestic students. However, foreign students are not usually eligible for state-funded education unless they are from the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland and meet specific residency requirements. As such, most international students in Oxford either attend private or boarding schools. The fees for these institutions can vary widely, depending on the school's reputation, facilities, and the breadth of the curriculum offered. On average, private and boarding schools in Oxford charge international students anywhere from £15,000 to £40,000 per annum. It's worth noting that these fees often do not cover extras such as uniforms, trips, or additional activities, so families should budget for additional costs.

Additionally, foreign students might encounter other expenses that domestic students might not. These include visa application fees, English language proficiency tests, and sometimes even additional tuition for English language support. Also, if the student opts for a boarding school, boarding fees will be on top of the tuition fees, which can range from £10,000 to £15,000 or more annually.

It's essential for prospective students and their families to research specific schools they're interested in for a precise breakdown of their fees. Scholarships and financial aid might be available for international students, and it's always a good idea to inquire about these opportunities when contacting a school's admissions department. While studying in Oxford can be an investment, the unparalleled academic environment and rich cultural experiences make it a sought-after destination for many international families.

Henrietta Lightwood

Marketing and Admission Director at Dukes Education

Besides professional teachers, what else do parents consider when choosing a school?

Child care level, variety of extracurricular activities, location, reputation and prestige. Often, parents like to consult with educational agents, with friends, if their children are already studying / studying in the UK. Each school has its own character, which is why I strongly advise you to visit the campus and talk to the staff: the director, the representative of the admissions committee, etc. This way you will personally get an idea of ​​what the school is like, what its values ​​and advantages are.