Gordonstoun School
In the process of preparing the material, we referenced the following sources: Wikipedia, Medium
Description of Gordonstoun School
- Location Gordonstoun School: Scotland, Elgin;
- Age: 8-18 years;
- Programs: Primary, Secondary School, GCSE, A-level, BTEC;
- The number of students: 700;
- The year of foundation Gordonstoun School: 1382;
- Type of study: separate, joint education.
The Gordonstone School, founded by Kurt Hahn, a famous German teacher, was named after Robert Gordon, in honour of the Scottish manor with the knightly status, which became the base of the campus. Today, the main building of Gordonstoun School is Elgin's landmark. The 17th century manor allows you to feel a special atmosphere on the campus.
The school was originally oriented towards coeducation. Today, representatives of more than 40 nationalities are educated in its walls. The foreign sudents is more than a third of the total number of schoolchilds.
The institution is proud of its outstanding graduates. Three generations of the royal family studied here. Secondary education in the walls of the school received the Duke Philip, Elizabeth II's husband, the son of Queen Charles, the grandsons Peter and Zara Phillips. A lot of world celebrities graduated from this school. Here studied Una Chaplin (actress, granddaughter Chaplin), Peter Zinoviev (founder of the concern EMS), Charles Kennedy (famous economist of the twentieth century), Stuart Agnew (member of the European Parliament), Khizar Stanning (Olympic rowing champion, 2012), Duncan Jones.
Gordonstoun School has a special atmosphere. What just is the location of the prestigious boarding school in Scotland! It is located in Moray (Scotland) near the village of Duffus. This region is known for its ancient history. The school is surrounded by many sights. One of the most famous are the ruins of castles built in the XII - XIV centuries. A few minutes walk separate the campus from the North Sea Bay. The picturesque Mori Fet is the main natural landmark of the area. Only 13 kilometers from the school there is a historical place called Elgin. An hour's drive separates the campus from the well-known in Scotland resort area of ​​Aviemore in the Cairngorm Mountains.
A distinctive feature of the school is the system of student development adopted here. SDS due to the complexity of the educational process ensures the participation of each student in all 7 blocks provided for by the school curriculum. Educational process includes children's engagement in creativity, sports, participation in the programs "Education in the open air", "International relations", "Service to society", performing school and household duties. Within the framework of the project, each child maintains a personal blog. The latter allows you to record achievements in all areas of the SDS. The completion of the scheme is under the supervision of the mentor. At any time, the parents of the student Gordonstoun School can familiarize themselves with the information provided in the SDS.
Admission requirements
Gordonstone School is an open, democratic school. It accepts for students of any nationality, religion, origin. Admission to junior school is carried out on the basis of an appropriately issued application and confirmation of English. Students are accepted for any year of study (4 - 8).
Applicants with outstanding achievements in the subject area or art can count on scholarship support.
The transition from one step to the next in the school is smooth. But at the same time students pass the traditional Common Entrance Examination.
High school applicants require a study testimonial (recommendation), confirmation of English proficiency, GCSE certificate or Common Entrance Examination. They also have to pass an interview.
Academic Programs
The school offers classical education with a focus on mathematics and languages. All international students of the school study at least two foreign languages. Additionally lesseons are available in Latin and Greek. In mathematics, at the eleventh year of schooling, children take an exam, which results in 2 GCSEs. The project is a pilot, tested in many private schools in Scotland and Britain. At A-level, international students are given the opportunity to take objects in the AS program and the A-level itself.
Academic results of graduates are high. A quarter of students take the exam for A * - A. Half of the children receive points A * - B. The enrollment ratio is 96%. 5% of graduates of Gordonstoun School study in Oxbridge.
The school offers special programs for foreign students. Students experiencing difficulties with the development of subject programs, can attend the so-called "supportive" classes. For those who wish to take IELTS exam, additional English lessons are provided, with an emphasis on the methods and strategy of passing the exam.
The school year is divided into terms. In each, a minimum of one week vacation is provided. Study begins on September 1, ends on June 27.
Education is based on the following principles:
- call;
- responsibility;
- service to society;
- internationalism.
The first is realized through Outdoor Education. The program is compulsory for students of all educational levels. Education in the open air provides for the acquisition of important skills during the practice of extreme sports, development of the marine business, participation in expeditions.
Service and responsibility are also realized in the learning process. Students of the 6th form once a week work in the school services? which they can choose. Senior students can be involved in coastal protection, rescue service (canoe), environmental society, the club "Young Firefighter". They also help disabled people, the elderly, children. Provides for the principle of service and mine rescue work, participation in a ski patrol, first aid in different conditions and situations. In addition, every senior student can try himself as a mentoring colleague. Most jobs require specialized studying. Specialized courses and classes usually end with a certain qualification. The certificate and practical knowledge can later be used by the student in adulthood.
The principle of internationalism is inscribed in the history of the school. The educational institution accepts international students without regard for nationality. In addition, here the curriculum provides the subject of ISC, which contributes to the formation of students in the international and spiritual civic position. It includes consideration of issues of social science, law, psychology, ecology, and health education.
When is the best time to apply to UK schools, and what should be expected?
Ideally, start the application process when you feel ready. The unpredictability of recent times, like the 2020 pandemic, highlights the importance of feeling secure and prepared for such a significant step. Research the school's website, subscribe to newsletters, follow them on social media, and don’t hesitate to ask questions.
Programs and prices, tuition fees in Gordonstoun School
In the Junior School (4-8 years of study), the curricula meets the standards of national (Scottish and British) educational programs. At this stage students study mathematics, English, integrated course of natural sciences, geography, history, French. On the 7-8th year of the program, drama, religious studies, ISC, music, art, design technology, information computer technologies are added to the program. At the 8th year students also study Latin and Greek. The obligatory subject at the Junior School stage is physical culture.
As part of outdoor education, children master mountaineering, rowing, kayaking, canoeing, skiing (classes are held in the center of Lecht). The summer program includes a 3 - 5 day expedition. For graduates of the Junior School, maritime trips are organized at the Ocean Spirit yacht owned by the school.
The 9th year of learning process provides for the studying of English, mathematics, a foreign language (a choice of Spanish and French), natural sciences, geography, history, the second foreign language (Latin, French, Spanish, German), design, art, computer technology, drama, dance, ISC, music. On an individual basis, students can attend additional classes at a music school. Foreign students are given the opportunity to learn English as part of the EAL program.
Outdoor education for the 9th year of study is a three-week course, providing full immersion in a particular type of activity. Students are engaged in rowing, climbing, orienteering, participating in team building, mastering sailing, skiing and cycling. Also, their attention is offered lessons in the school of survival, the basics of first aid.
In 10-11 years of studying students are actively preparing for the GCSE. The natural sciences, English and literature, a foreign language (Spanish, French - for choice), mathematics are compulsorily studied. The ISC course (unaccounted) is also included in the program.
Students choose three subjects from the list for studying. One priority is allocated from each category:
- Music, Spanish, business basics, Latin, design, German, art, history;
- Geography, physical education, drama, design, art, computer science;
- Bases of business, physical culture, dance, history, geography.
Within the framework of the special program of additional study of English (EAL), foreign students can apply Cambrige exam at the end of the course.
Sixth Form (the last 2 years of studying at Gordonstoun School) students study under the A-level program. Most often in the 12th grade they study 4 disciplines, in 13 grade they reduce their number to 3. Acquiring academic knowledge and confirming their level in the exam can be in art and design, biology, business basics, chemistry, classical civilizations, classical Greek, design and technology, drama and theater studies, economics, English, English literature, geography, history, computer technology, Latin, mathematics, higher mathematics, pure mathematics, mass communication, French, German, Spanish, Language, physical education, physics, as well as dance, the basics of digital photography and visual media, music technologies, psychology (surrendered within AS), mathematics, English (surrendered to GCSE).
The school provides an opportunity to obtain professional qualification in the field of sports (VTES), which is equivalent to one exam within the A-level. Getting VTES allows entering the university for a sports profile program. Also, the qualification provides for the possibility of starting a career as an employee of a sports institution. According to VTES the exam does not give up. The number of points is calculated based on the results of two-year studying on the Sixth Form.
Accommodation, meals, prices
Students are offered accommodation in the residence. On the campus there are 9 dormitories, in 3 of them girls live, in the rest - boys. Part of the buildings was built in the XVII century. All residences have modern renovation and equipment.
Junior students are accommodated in dormitories in rooms for 4 - 7 people. Senior students are available single and double apartments. In general, there are rest rooms, TV screening rooms, computer classes, libraries. The equipment of the residences also includes snack machines, kitchens, laundries, drying rooms.
In dormitories, a 24-hour adult control is implemented. The teacher and his family live in the residence. In the daytime he works in a team with a housekeeper, service personnel, on-duty teachers.
Boarding meals are available at the school. Served breakfasts, lunches, dinners are in the common dining room; Snacks, drinks - in the dining rooms of residences.
Subjects and sports
Activities Gordonstoun School
The school offers many opportunities for creative development. Several dozen circles and studios work at the boarding school. There are own orchestras (wind, string), ensembles (flute, guitar), a chapel, a group of games on bagpipes. Also, children are offered clubs of art, web design, jazz dance, cooking, electronics, drama, digital art. Work in the school and profile dance studios: salsa, modern dance, ballet, break dance. Editorial and chess clubs are popular. Also, many students choose language electives. The study in the club format offers Spanish, French.
The sports facilities of a private boarding school are extensive. The program is mostly in the game format. For sports, a minimum of 4 hours a week is required. Additional schedule for children can be made independently. Priority sports are determined taking into account the seasonal factor and the gender of children. For boys, cricket, hockey and rugby are special. For girls - lapta, hockey and netball. Additionally, the attention of schoolchildren is offered skiing, badminton, basketball, volleyball, aerobics, yoga, cycling, squash, shooting, horse riding, karate, judo, athletics, tennis, cross-country, football. Also, golf is available in the school. Extreme sports can also be chosen.
Sailing is compulsory for mastering from the 9th year of training. Students go on the sea on small yachts and Devon and SB20 boats, as well as an 80-foot ship belonging to the school. At the end of the 10th year of schooling, international students go on a 5-day independent journey. Students of the 6th form are given the opportunity to make 2 mountaineering expeditions to the mountains of Northern Scotland. The program also includes an independent sea voyage on a large ship.
The school entertainment program is also extensive. It includes parties, sports, contests, visits to theaters, movies, concerts, trips to bowling and the beach, and interesting excursions.
An important part of school life is social international projects. They give students the opportunity to visit Oceania, India, America, Africa, Europe. Gordonstoun School students help solve humanitarian problems in different countries, including Romania, Ethiopia, Thailand.
In addition, children are given the opportunity to participate in various conferences and debates on the themes of European, world politics, the development of society, social life. For success in this area, students can receive an award from the Duke of Edinburgh. The latter is presented in three categories: gold, silver, bronze.
Advantages
- Gordonstoun School is a unique opportunity for learning, comprehensive development of the child, upbringing. It has great academic resources, is located in the region with sandy beaches, rocky mountains, picturesque forests and hills.
- Gordonstone School is not just a school. This is a close-knit community with its history, traditions, customs. Its goal is the development of international thinking in children. The latter is the basis for acquiring important social skills necessary for a comfortable life in the 21st century.
- Like Winchester, Harrow, Eaton, the school provides an exclusive education. The school is taught according to a unique program, which differs from the generally accepted one.
- The school is the only one in Scotland where the dance is taught as one of the main subjects. In general, the school provides its pupils with great opportunities for developing creative abilities.
- Education is based on the principles laid down by its founder. The focus is internationalism, service, responsibility and challenge, requiring the maximum amount of effort to achieve the goal.
- All educational processes at the boarding school are aimed at developing students' academic, social skills and personal qualities. The student has an active life position, high motivation, is creative, confident, diligent, can quickly make decisions and effectively conduct a dialogue.
- The school is sure: everyone is capable of more. Under this motto it is actively teaching, organized extra-curricular activities. Students are taught that there is no limit to perfection. Children are encouraged to set ambitious goals and achieve them using the acquired knowledge and skills.
- Each student of the boarding school receives the necessary amount of pedagogical attention. This is realized through mentoring, studying in small classes of 10 to 12 people.
- Students do not just get a classical secondary education. They can choose the priority direction for future activities. Consultations in the center of career counseling are provided free of charge. Also here you can take a test to determine the inclination to the profession, take a SAT test before entering the American university.
- Schooling is almost unlimited opportunities for participation in international exchange programs. First of all, this concerns cooperation with educational institutions from the "Round Square" Association, which was initiated in 1996 by Gordonstoun School.
- Parents can monitor the academic achievements of the child and his life at school. They receive regular detailed reports. In addition, all the necessary information about school life is presented on the special parent portal of the school.
Facilities and equipment at Gordonstoun School
The school has an extensive classroom. Classes are equipped with interactive whiteboards, multimedia teaching aids, DVD players and TVs. In the academic buildings there are also computer classes, laboratories. The school has its own library with a rich collection of profile books, a bookstore.
To implement the curricula are equipped with: an information technology center, a technology and design center, engraving and textile studios, sculpture, painting, theater, sound recording. There is also a music school on the campus.
The sports infrastructure is represented by a new gymnasium, a swimming indoor pool with 25-meter tracks, 4 squash courts, a treadmill, covered shooting range, an all-weather playing field, lighted tennis and non-court courts, 3 golf courses. Also at school all conditions are created for climbing, football, rugby, and cricket.
There is a multidisciplinary medical center at Gordonstone School. Reception in school doctors conduct - namely, pediatricians, physiotherapists, stomatologists, oculists. Five nurses are on duty at the center.
The campus also has its own fire station. It is provided with two modern machines, all the necessary special equipment.
Admission dates and extra charges
The school year is divided into terms. In each, a minimum of one week vacation is provided. The study begins on September 1, ends on June 27.
Additional fees:
- consular fees;
- the cost of the exams;
- additional classes and activities;
- school uniform;
- pocket money;
- insurance (optional);
- air transport, etc.
Extras:
- Registration fee (for a programme/course)
Literature and references
Institution on the map
Residence permits, citizenship and other services
- Guardianship services during the studies
- Student supervision
Review about Gordonstoun School
Recommendations on when to apply
| Language courses, schools and children's language camps | Primary and secondary education - private schools | Preparation programmes for entering universities - higher education | Higher education (after completing accredited programs A-level, IB, High School) - Bachelor, Master, MBA |
| - we recommend to apply 6-9 months before the start of the course (some camps and schools offer discounts for early booking or for lengthy study programs) - there are some very popular and high demand children's camps, where the applications need to be submitted 1 year in advance (in particular Switzerland , Great Britain , USA , Canada , Austria) | - we recommend to apply one year before the start of the training program, - some schools have a specific time frame (September-November - please specify an individual school) - some schools require tests in several stages (UKISET, internal tests of the school: English, mathematics, logics, subjects, interview, some require a personal visit) | - we recommend to apply one year before the start of the program, - for Foundation and Pathway programs, IELTS and TOEFL certificates are usually required, respectively | - recommended submission one year before the start of the program, - the deadline normally closes in January, for TOP HEIs and, as a rule, in March in other universities - for a bachelor, a Foundation or Pathway preparatory program a completed A-level, IB, High School + IELTS / TOEFL are required - for Masters you need a graduated higher education, in some cases you need a pre-Masters program - MBA requires completed higher education, work experience preferably at least 2-3 years, etc. |
