Educational system in England: structure and features. Education in England and Great Britain

Primary education in the UK, Primary Education, begins at 5 years old, although many British schoolchildren already go to school preparation programs at the age of 3-4. Primary education lasts six years, after which, at age 11, students move to secondary school. Secondary education in the UK lasts five years and is compulsory for students aged from 11 to 16 years old. Most subjects studied in an English school are compulsory.

British school graduates receive General Certificate of Secondary Education, abbreviated GCSE- General certificate of secondary education. According to British law, school graduates can start working, enroll in a vocational college or a university preparation program.

2. Preparation for university in the UK and professional education

To enroll in further education programs, you need a British certificate of completion of secondary education GSCE or its equivalent, for example, the Russian Certificate of Complete Secondary Education.

In the UK, there are 2 types of university preparation programs: A-levels and Foundation.

University preparation programs A-levels

At the end of secondary school, both British students and foreigners planning to obtain their first higher education undergo two-year university preparation programs - A-levels. The presence of A-levels programs distinguishes the British education system from the Russian one.

At A-levels, the student chooses the subjects to study based on the requirements of the university to which he plans to enroll. At the end of their studies at A-levels, the student takes exams in 3-4 subjects studied. These exams are also university entrance exams.

University preparation programs International Foundation

Vocational education in the UK

Vocational programs in the UK provide the technical skills and experience needed for employment. Students can combine study and work. Many professional programs allow you to enter a British university in the first or second year of your first higher education.

Correlation with the Russian system of vocational education

British further education can be compared with vocational education in technical schools, schools and colleges in the CIS countries. The concept of “subsequent” education includes all types of education after school, except for higher education - these are professional programs and preparation programs for entering universities. In English, British further education is called Further Education.

3. Higher education in the UK

British Master's degrees

Level 3: PhD - UK Postgraduate Study

Postgraduate studies in the UK, as well as master's degrees, are a level of postgraduate education ( postgraduate). On the websites of universities, these programs are most often designated as “Research programs” or “PhD programs”. PhD programs at British universities are, in fact, equivalent to Russian postgraduate programs. However, in terms of the level of requirements and quality of research work, these programs are more likely to gravitate towards Russian doctoral studies.

In the UK, most programs leading to a PhD are research projects, requiring lectures and training seminars only at the beginning of the program. The supervisor, in whose laboratory or department the student is preparing to defend his dissertation, determines the topic of scientific research for the student and provides the resources necessary for the research.

It usually takes 3-4 years to complete a research program. By the end of this period, the student must publish the results obtained and write a dissertation based on the published materials.

What education is needed to enter a British graduate school?

To enroll in the PhD program, you need a master's degree from a Russian, British or other foreign university. A specialist diploma issued by Russian universities is recognized in Britain as a diploma of the first higher education, and in most cases a specialist diploma will not be sufficient for admission to graduate school.

UK Postgraduate Degrees

Doctor of Philosophy degree, Doctor of Philosophy, PhD, is assigned to the student after successfully defending his dissertation.

Also, postgraduate education programs can lead to doctoral degrees in certain sciences, for example: Doctor of Education ( Doctor of Education, EdD) or Doctor of Business Administration ( Doctor of Business Administration, DBA).

The main difference between the Doctor of Education program and the Doctor of Philosophy in Education (PhD in Education) is that the former program allows you to cover a wider range of education-related subjects and focus on one research problem only at the end of your studies.

The DBA degree is also a research degree. Such programs are aimed at developing the theory and practice of business administration and management.

Educational institutions for PhD programs

With few exceptions, PhD and other research programs are offered by large multi-disciplinary universities with highly qualified academic staff, extensive research facilities and significant research budgets. Read about how to apply to graduate school in the UK here.

Prepared based on materials from Quality Assurance Agency (QAA), OECD Thematic Review of Tertiary Education – Country Background Report: UK, The European Educational Directory.

Education system V Great Britain

In the UK, schooling is compulsory from 5 to 16 years of age. Some may immediately object that, since 2015, education in the UK has become compulsory up to the age of 18. This is true! But for the last 3 academic years (15-18 years old), young people have the right to study in other educational institutions, for example, in private Sixth Form colleges, further education colleges, analogues of our vocational schools, or work as an apprentice under the supervision of an experienced master who has the right for training young specialists.

But let's return to schoolchildren. Before the start of education, namely from the age of 2, children attend Nursery or Pre-preparatory School(analogous to our kindergartens). It can be either an independent educational institution or part of a primary school. It is worth noting that it is precisely because a kindergarten can be part of a school that the legend arose that children in the UK go to school from the age of 2.

Difficulty understanding UK education system we collide from the very beginning. Despite the fact that the mandatory starting age for education is 5 years, children have the opportunity to enter a preparatory class at 4 years old, which is called Reception Year. Parents can use this opportunity at their own discretion. This is the first difference from our system. English parents who believe that their child is not mature enough can send him to school from the age of 5. In this case, he will begin his studies not with Reception Year, but with first grade (Year 1). In other words, such a child does not lag behind or ahead of his peers. In our country, if parents believe that a child is mature enough at 6 years old, then he goes to school with 7-year-olds, and thus is a year ahead of his peers, but more on that a little later.

In the preparatory class, children are prepared for the start of school in a playful and entertaining way. This year does not count toward the general curriculum. But it's not that simple. To be fair, it should be said that there are “difficulties” in the English system. Not all children have the opportunity to attend Reception Year. In England there is such a thing as “summer children”, that is, children born between April 1 and August 31. They are considered “less ready” than their peers born earlier in the year. That is why they are recommended to start training at 5 years old. By law, parents of such children have the opportunity to apply for admission to a preparatory class, but the final word remains with the school management, which in most cases refuses them this, citing the reluctance to have a “knowingly lagging” child in the class. Scandals often arise on this basis. Every now and then, articles appear in the newspapers about how some parents file a complaint against the school management, which refuses to admit them to a “summer child” in the preparatory class. Despite this, the issue still remains unresolved, since both sides are right in their own way. The school does not want to accept a child who is less mature than other students, as he may be a distraction to other children. It is difficult to doubt the logic of this decision. But you can also understand the parents. They are concerned that their child’s peers, who were “lucky enough” to be born a few weeks, or even days, earlier, will already start school, and next year, when their child goes to school, he will actually be behind those who By this time the preparatory year will have ended.

However, the law is the law. And it states that the child must start school on September 1 following his fifth birthday. A child born between January 1 and April 1 has the opportunity to begin education on September 1 following his fourth birthday.

School education in England is inextricably linked with the biological age of the child. When entering school, or when changing educational institutions, the class into which the child is admitted is determined by his age as of September 1 of the year in which he begins his studies. Sometimes it comes to an incident when a child born on September 2 must go to school a year later or, in the case of a change of school, a grade lower. The law exists, but it is not applied in all schools, no matter how certain “unfortunate agents” convince you of this. Yes, indeed, the more prestigious and ancient the school, the more reverently they follow this rule. In my practice, there was a child born on September 2, who was refused admission to one of the schools on our list precisely for this reason, despite all the parents’ attempts to “agree.” At the same time, there are a lot of schools, sometimes no worse, that approach this issue more flexibly. Here we should return to the previously mentioned feature of “our” education, to the opportunity to send a 6-year-old child to school along with 7-year-old children.

It is because of this that one of the main problems arises when transferring a child to a British school. As we have already said, most English schools make decisions about enrollment in a particular class based on the child’s biological age. But in this case, it turns out that the child, despite the difference of 1 year, has already completed this year at his native school, and, if we consider the situation from the point of view of the number of school years, such a child is actually “kept for a second year.”

I am sure that the vast majority of parents do not even notice this, no one tells them about it, they were accepted into school and are fine. I had to learn this lesson the hard way when, after signing all the documents and transferring money, dad decided to count the number of school years, and was, to put it mildly, perplexed when he realized that his child was being left for the second year. Fortunately, the situation was resolved and everyone was happy. With this I am trying to warn other parents who find themselves in a similar situation. Yes, indeed, most schools will not make an exception for you and will insist on enrollment based on the child’s biological age. But there are schools that agree to “step up” and accept such a child into a higher class. Here everyone must decide for themselves what is best. Insist on a sequence of classes, sometimes sacrificing the level of the school, or, taking advantage of the moment, give the child the opportunity to study a year lower, improve his language skills, join the team and continue studying with his peers. My task is to convey to you that such a possibility exists, no matter how much your agent beats his chest.

The academic year lasts from September to July. It is divided into three parts, terms: the autumn term from September to Christmas (Christmas in the UK in December), the spring term from January to Easter, and the summer term from April to July. Each trimester lasts approximately 12 weeks, with half term holidays lasting about a week each and taking place in October, February and May respectively. Holidays between terms, Christmas and Easter, last about 2 weeks each and summer about 6-8 weeks.

Compulsory schooling consists of two stages: primary or preparatory ( Preparatory Education) and secondary (Secondary Education ) education. Accordingly, Preparatory (abbreviated as Prep School) and Senior School. Primary School ends with Year 8 (in most public schools Year 6). During this period, children take exams twice: at the end of the second (7 years) and sixth (11 years) years of study, respectively Key Stage one and two ( Key Stage 1) (Key Stage 2 ). Children studying under a parallel American program graduate from Elementary School, and those studying under I.B. , are completing the course IBPYP . Test results are entered into a unified national database of student achievement.

Exams are taken in compulsory disciplines: English, Mathematics and Science, block of chemistry, physics and biology. Other subjects such as History, Geography, Technology, Music, Art and Physical Education (PE for short) are also included in the program, but exams for them at these stages do not give up.

There is also the concept of “Primary Education”, what does it mean? There are two education sectors in the UK, state-funded and private. So, “Primary Education” means the same initial stage of education in public education as “Preparatory Education” in private education. Accordingly, “Pre-preparatory School” in private education means the same as “Pre-school” in public education. By the way, it should be noted that private schools in England are called Public Schools, which literally translates as Public Schools, which often confuses foreigners. You can find out more about this issue in our separate article (Public school).

After graduating from Primary School, at the age of 13, students move to Senior School. In the public sector, this school is sometimes called Secondary School. Here the confusion arises precisely because of inaccurate translation. Literally, Secondary means “Second”. In Russian translation it is called Middle. Therefore, it turns out that secondary and second schools are one and the same. During their studies, students also take exams at Key Stage 3 (Year 9, 14 years old) and Key Stage 4 (Year 11, 16 years old).

The fourth stage, according to the traditional British program, is also called GCSE. In parallel programs it is called IGCSE, IBMYP or High School Diploma. This stage is the final stage in the school curriculum; children complete it at the age of 16.

Having reached the age of 16, most students, subject to successful passing of the GCSE exams, enter the Sixth Form, that is, a two-year university preparation program. This can be a traditional A-level or alternative IB Diploma, IBCC, Pre-U or American Advanced Placement. At the end of the 2nd year of study, they take exams, based on the results of which they are enrolled in a university. Already at this stage, the student must decide on his future profession and choose exactly those subjects that are necessary for entry into the appropriate faculty of the university.

It is at this stage, at the age of 16, that the largest number of foreign students come to study in England. As for those who continued to receive education in their country and arrived a little later, at the age of 18, they are offered two paths to choose from. First: enroll in a one-year, compressed A-level course, which is mandatory for English students (some colleges accept children under 19 years old), or a one-year Foundation Program (Foundation UK), created specifically for foreign students wishing to study in one of the British universities.

The greatest advantage of the British education system is its consistency, interaction and interchangeability of different areas. Regardless of which path a student continues to study after the age of 16, he will still be able to obtain a higher education. Let me explain what I mean. At the age of 16, a wide range of opportunities opens up for young people. Despite the fact that they are required to continue their studies for another 2 years, they can either continue on the academic path (A-level or alternative programs), combine theoretical knowledge with practical skills (BTEC) or obtain a working specialty (NVQ or Apprenticeship ). What is meant by all roads leading to higher education. The education system is structured in such a way that for each of the areas there is a clear algorithm for what needs to be done if the student changes his decision and decides to get a higher education. Let's leave the obvious academic path for now and consider others, for example, BTEC and NVQ. Without going into details, BTEC and NVQ are analogues of diplomas from “our” specialized schools (where children simultaneously receive a specialty) and vocational schools. If the example with specialized schools is not very eloquent, since there are still some differences, then the example with vocational schools speaks for itself. The vast majority of guys who are bored or don’t like studying, who end up in a vocational school, have a “light” on the way to “workdays,” since it is unlikely that they will be able to enter a university with such a diploma. In the UK it's the other way around. The system is designed so that a young person who has managed to try “working life” during his studies, having received an NVQ certificate, can enter university on its basis. Yes, you may have to start with a special preparatory course and choose not from the best universities, but it’s better than nothing. Moreover, those who retained the desire to start working as quickly as possible during further education, worked for several years and only then realized that it was better to get a higher education, have the opportunity to find their old NVQ diploma and enter a university several years later . There were many people who studied with me at the university, who managed to work for several years after school, realized that they needed to learn more, and entered the university.

After successfully completing one of the university preparation programs or after obtaining a working specialty, students of their choice apply to the university. There is even an opportunity to “send” documents to several universities you like to increase your chances of success. Each faculty has its own requirements for applicants. A mandatory requirement is a list of major subjects and performance in them, so the right choice and diligence during the Sixth Form are simply necessary.

After 3 years of study at the university, students receive a Bachelor's Degree. Further training is called Postgraduate Study, the first stage of which is a master's degree. At this stage many foreigners come to the UK. The optimal path for them would be the Master's Degree Preparation program ( ).

For a better understanding, I suggest you look at the diagram of possible training options in the appendix to this article.

We sincerely hope that our article will help you understand the incomprehensibleeducation system in Great Britain. Some private schools, following centuries-old traditions, offer their own education system and age limits for each stage of education. It is better to find out more about this before you submit your documents.

Our advice! A child's education should be planned in advance, starting backwards. That is, first decide in which country and in which university you “see” your child. Then determine the list of Sixth Form schools/colleges from which admission to this university is accepted, or take a closer look at the Further Education college option. For many, this has become an excellent alternative in terms of financial costs and assistance in determining a future profession. Next, you need to find secondary schools that prepare you for entry into a specific Sixth Form or Further Education. Complete your plan by selecting Primary Schools, and we will help you with this!

Children in England are required by law to attend school from the age of 5 to 16 inclusive, but many start school earlier (at age 3) and continue until they are 18 (until they enter college or university). Nine out of ten children in the UK are educated in state schools (these schools are funded by the government). The remaining children are educated in private schools (also called "independent" schools), with the more exclusive private schools such as Eton or Harrow called "public schools", but these should not be confused with state schools, as education in such public schools schools, of course, is not free. Schools are divided according to the age of the students and are called 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 educated);
• primary schools (students' ages range from 4 to 11 years);
• secondary schools (students aged 11-18 years) and
• higher educational institutions and colleges (18+).

Most public schools, especially at the primary level, have mixed classes with both girls and boys. These schools can be either non-denominational educational institutions or belonging to one of the popular denominations (for example, Catholic schools, Church of England schools, Jewish schools, etc.). All public primary schools are required to adhere to the Government's National Curriculum and prepare pupils for tests at various stages according to their age.

Any child aged 5 to 16 years is entitled to attend a state school in the UK as long as their parents are in the country on a long-term visa (that is, any visa valid for more than 6 months - work, student, business visa, etc. .d.). If parents are outside the UK, children under 16 years of age can only be educated at private boarding schools.

In the independent education sector, there may be girls-only and boys-only schools, although there is an increasing trend towards mixed learning. Unlike public sector schools, private schools have the right to approve their own curriculum and decide whether their students will sit national curriculum tests. A growing number of schools are opting beyond the national curriculum - meaning private school pupils are taught much less restricted and more varied programmes. These programs are not burdened with constant testing and are not limited by requirements to follow a clearly defined course. In addition, class sizes in private schools are usually smaller than in public primary schools - the number of students in them usually does not exceed 15 students. Therefore, teachers can devote more time and attention to the individual needs of each student.

Private schools can range from "day" schools to "five-day boarding" (students live at school five days a week and then go home for the weekend) or "boarding" (this type of school only sends children home for holidays) . In most cases, the age of students in five-day boarding schools and boarding schools starts at 11 years old, 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 take vacations. English holidays are quite long between semesters (usually called Christmas and Easter holidays) and short ("half-term") in the middle of the semester. The school year begins in early September and ends in the summer, and the end of the school year in public and private schools may vary. All public schools end the school year close to July 20, but private schools have the right to decide this issue at their own discretion, so their school year can end 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 holidays, and the start and end dates for half holidays at private schools may vary from school to school.

PRESCHOOL EDUCATION - FROM 3 TO 4 YEARS

This is the age at which English children can (but do not have to) begin their preschool education. Preschool classes are similar to kindergarten and emphasize group work, creative activities, and themed games. However, unlike a kindergarten, a child is in such a preschool class only 3 hours a day, from nine in the morning to twelve or from twelve to three.

Public pre-school education is only available to children aged three years and over, so a child can start pre-school either at the start of the autumn term or in the spring or summer (depending on the date they turn 3). The admission process into a state pre-school class depends on local authority requirements (i.e. depending on which region of England the child lives in) and can vary significantly from region to region. At the same time, it must be remembered that in some areas of the UK local authorities require applications for admission to a pre-school class to be submitted a year before the child reaches the required age for admission. Failure to submit documents within the appropriate time frame may result in the child not being given a place in a pre-primary class at a good primary school and being placed on a waiting list.

A child can begin studying in a private preschool class at the age of two, and the process of accepting documents in them can vary markedly (while some private schools require you to apply for a preschool class even before the child is born).
PRIMARY EDUCATION - FROM 4-6 TO 7-11(13) YEARS

In the public school system, children at the age of four begin primary school. In some areas there are still separate "infant schools" (for children from 4 to 6 years old), after which the child moves on to a "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 the preparatory class (the so-called class of the first year of primary school) when he is 4 years old and if his parents have submitted the appropriate application on time, that is, within 6 months before the start of the semester (training in the preparatory class usually begins every six months ). Unfortunately, obtaining a place for a child in a good state pre-school class (which is usually located at primary schools) does not at all guarantee that he will be able to study in the same institution in the future when it comes time for admission to primary school. While there are many very good state primary schools in England, the number of not so good schools is unfortunately even greater. It is therefore not surprising that all good primary schools are usually overcrowded.

As a rule, in order to enroll a child in a preferred public primary school, 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 may vary from school to school, so it is important to first find out the admission rules for a particular school that parents like. Admission to a church school almost always requires that the child belong to the appropriate denomination and attend Sunday school at the church with which the educational institution is associated. 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 Reception at age 4, move from Reception to Year 1 at age 5, and then continue at age 6 in Year 2 years of study.

At the age of seven, “Stage 2” and the corresponding education begin for the child: children move to the third year class with further annual transition to the next (4, 5 and 6, respectively) class. It is at this stage that some children move from infant school to junior school, however in most cases this process is very simple as most children's schools are directly linked to junior schools located nearby.

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

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

The history of the word "preparatory" goes back to independent schools in England before the early 20th century, whose original purpose was to prepare pupils for entry into public schools on a competitive basis - after passing a general examination at the age of 11, 12 or 13 years. However, the scope of independent education in the UK has grown significantly, and schools are now much more flexible in meeting the needs of students and their parents. The phrase "public school" is usually used to refer to an old traditional school such as Eton or Harrow, of which there are not many in the UK. However, these days there are a fairly large number of private schools in England, and the term "independent school" has become more generic - today the UK independent education sector has more than 1,000 "pre-prep" and "preparatory" schools.

The admission process at different private schools may differ significantly.

Admission to some pre-kindergarten and preparatory private schools is as simple as registering your child with a local school (although sometimes such registration must occur before the child is born, and for some of the more popular private schools, immediately after conception).

Children must pass entrance exams to be accepted into other independent schools.

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

For applicants aged 7 or 8 years or older, the school may require you to take an entrance exam before considering your application for admission. In most cases the focus is on English, but general knowledge and achievement in mathematics may also be assessed. There are no clear standards, so it is necessary to check with the relevant schools well in advance, and the exams for most good preparatory schools are not easy.

Eight years in general, it is traditionally considered the most appropriate moment for the transition from “pre-preparatory” to “preparatory” school. Eight years of age is also the minimum age limit after which a child can be admitted to a boarding school.

Even though high school is considered the most serious stage of school education, choosing the right preparatory school is extremely important. If the child's parents have their sights set on a particular high school, they will probably try to choose a preparatory school, which is a kind of “recruitment center” for the chosen high school. And a parent's choice of secondary school is perhaps the most important decision determining a child's future - researchers recently found that just five schools in England prepared more students for Oxford and Cambridge over three years than almost 2,000 other schools combined !

Eight years of age is key for those considering an elite independent high school option. You may be assured that this is simply a matter of verbal and non-verbal reasoning test results, for which it is impossible to prepare. But the ever-increasing number of books, websites and training companies promising success in the so-called 11+ exam (the exam students take at the end of primary school) demonstrates how clearly and widely this advice is being 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 schools are at the top of your list, you should start arranging visits as soon as your child turns 8. There are both formal and informal criteria for selecting pupils, and it is worth considering them all.

Ten years is the ideal age to enroll a child in most other independent private high schools. By this point, both parents and the school (if it was chosen correctly) will have a clear idea not only in which area the child is most talented, but also about 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. Open days will help you with this - they will become a starting point and allow you to feel the spirit of the school.

Public education/public school system

Eleven years of age marks the end of primary school and progression to secondary school for most public school students.

Most public secondary schools are mixed education, but there are also a number of all-boys and all-girls public schools. Such schools can be either non-denominational or church-based (Catholic, Anglican, Jewish, etc.), and often church schools demonstrate better educational results and a much higher level of discipline. There are also a number of selective educational institutions at the secondary school level.

Essentially, 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 gates);
2. Partially selective comprehensive schools (a certain percentage of students are accepted based on the results of testing and/or exams in music, sports training or drawing; the remaining students are accepted based on the distance from home to school);
3. Gymnasiums (students are recruited solely on the basis of test results - usually in mathematics and logic (verbal and non-verbal), and sometimes this list includes an essay);
4. Church schools (to be enrolled in a school, a child must be a religious parishioner and have taken part in masses with his parents for several years before enrollment).

There are also a number of government boarding schools, where tuition is funded by the government but accommodation is paid for by the parents. Admission to such schools is usually based on a number of criteria, varying depending on the specifics of the school, although in general state boarding schools recruit students based on their need for this particular form of education (and their suitability for it). The child’s place of residence is also important (preference is given to local students).

Unlike primary schools, where you can find many really good institutions, finding a good secondary school is not an easy task. Typically, the best public secondary schools are gymnasiums. Therefore, competition for enrollment in gymnasiums, as a rule, is 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.

As in the state school system, at the age of 11 many pupils change schools from a prep school to an independent secondary school (although, unlike state schools, there are also many schools in the private sector offering education from 4 or 7 years to 18) .

In some schools (mostly schools attended exclusively by boys), education begins only at the age of 13. If parents are planning to send their child to one of these types of schools (often these are elite schools such as Eton or Harrow), it is important to choose a suitable preparatory school at the right time, which will not only allow continued education until the child turns 13 , but will also provide high-quality preparation for the “13+” general entrance exams, which are considered a more serious test than the “11+” exam.

The Common Entrance Examination is used to assess the knowledge of pupils who move from a 'preparatory' school to an independent senior school at ages 11+ and 13+. The exam is administered by an independent committee from the school board. Examination tasks are developed by examiners appointed by the school council. Answers are evaluated by the independent high school to which the student plans to attend. All students must pass compulsory examinations in the core school subjects of mathematics, English and science. In addition, most independent high schools require applicants to present exam results in geography, history, religious studies and a foreign language. Applicants for admission usually take a general examination at their school (UK or overseas). If a student's first language is not English, he or she may use bilingual dictionaries during the math, science, or humanities exam. He also has the right to use up to 25% of additional time if he has not studied at a school with English as the language of instruction for more than 2 years.

Candidates for the scholarship are identified by the 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 assessments. As a rule, the director of a preparatory school (we are talking about a good preparatory school, of course) knows what to look for in order to get into a particular high school.

All necessary information, registration forms for admission and the 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 this can be 3 years before the exams are taken.
SECONDARY EDUCATION - FROM 14 TO 16 YEARS

The period when preparation for GCSE begins.

GCSE (“General Certificate of Secondary Education”) is an academic qualification obtained in a range of school subjects by secondary school students aged 14–16 years (in England, Wales and Northern Ireland). Some students may take the exam in one or more subjects earlier or later than the usual deadline (most Russian students take the Russian language exam immediately after enrolling in secondary school). The international version of the GCSE exam is the IGCSE, which can be taken anywhere in the world and includes additional language and coursework options. Some schools in the UK now choose to use the IGCSE as an alternative to the GCSE, but this practice is not yet widespread and there is no evidence to suggest that either type of exam is preferable for entry into top universities.

In secondary schools, GCSE exams are taken in a variety of subjects, which are usually chosen by the students themselves at the end of Year 9. The study of selected subjects in the GCSE preparation program begins in year 10 (aged 14-15 years), although some subjects begin to be studied earlier (for example, mathematics, English and natural sciences, as the programs in these subjects are too voluminous to accommodate in standard 2 years). The final exam is taken at the end of the 11th year of study (at the age of 15-16 years). The number of subjects students study at GCSE preparation level may vary. Usually there are from 8 to 10, but often students choose more or less subjects to study.

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

The GCSE exam is part of the national qualifications framework. The D-G scores obtained in the GCSE exam indicate the 1st level of qualification, while the A*-C scores indicate the second. It is not surprising that students achieving level 2 qualifications (A*-C) will be more successful applicants, since most universities will not even consider any grades below a C (although it should be added that even a grade C is not acceptable for admission to a good university, and the best academic institutions accept only applicants with A* and A scores).
Students who fail the exam receive a U score; accordingly, this subject is not included in the certificate.

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

In most schools, students are divided into performance groups in individual subjects, and only a few of the best performing groups study the subject in a volume that allows them to be examined at the highest level. The rest of the students follow a program corresponding to the basic level of difficulty of the exam. Sometimes you hear about how a bright student ended up in one of the lower groups in terms of performance, for example, in mathematics (because he did not feel well on the day he took the aptitude test, or, which happens much more often, being a foreigner, did not quite I understood the essence of the task correctly). 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 grade above C (which means that the doors of the best universities are closed to him), since the tasks of the basic level of complexity were different from the tasks of the highest level. level.

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

Public education/public school system

In state secondary schools, a GCSE preparation course is compulsory in all subjects considered core (i.e. mathematics, English, science and physical education). Students are also required to study some form of ICT (information and communications technology) and social studies, although there are no exams in these subjects.
Accordingly, almost all students take GCSE exams in English, mathematics and science. In addition, many schools also require students to take a course in English literature, a modern foreign language, at least one subject in design and technology, religious studies (often a shortened, "half-course" course), and information and communications technology. Students fill out the remaining free part of their schedule according to their choice in such a way that there are about 10 subjects in total. It is possible to choose shorter courses to prepare for GCSEs or other qualifications, although this choice is not recommended for students planning to go to university.
Independent education/private school system

Private schools are not required to meet the requirements of the National Curriculum, which is compulsory for all state schools. They usually approve their own list of compulsory subjects for GCSE preparation, which usually includes English language and literature, mathematics, biology, chemistry, physics and a foreign language. In most private schools you will see a wide range of CGSE preparation subjects to choose from, including a variety of foreign languages ​​(usually French, German, Spanish or rarer options such as Russian, Arabic, Latin or Greek), history, geography, computer science, religious studies, design, art, music, drama.

The beginning of preparation for GCSE is the last chance to change educational institution for a child whose parents are dissatisfied with the level of preparation at the school where he is studying, 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.

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

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

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

There is a definite difference between a “traditional” A Level preparation course (such as studying mathematics and English) and a new, highly professionally oriented course (implying in-depth study of business and media strategies, psychology, law and accounting) . There is also a noticeable difference between linear (two-year 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 "AS Level" (or Supporting Advanced Level). The remaining 2 modules are assessed at the end of the second year of study, constituting “Level A2”. “Level A2” itself is not a qualification; to confirm full qualification of “Level A” in any subject, you must pass exams at levels AS and A2. To assess knowledge in modules, examination tasks prepared by national organizations and coursework intended for internal assessment are used.

The number of exams students take to achieve A Level may vary. The standard course of study involves studying 4 subjects in the first year of preparation, and then studying three of them at A2 level (although some students continue to study all 4 chosen subjects). Three subjects are the minimum required for admission to the university; Some universities require AS level preparation in a fourth subject. There is no limit to the number of subjects studied, with some students studying 5 or more subjects at A Level qualifications (although this varies by 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 (provided the child is fluent in this language), as well as studying the subject simultaneously in two languages ​​- English and a foreign language.

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

Overall, the IB program has been very well received. She was recognized as having the ability to “develop interdisciplinary thinking in students.” In the UK, the Guardian newspaper declared the IBDP to be "a more academically challenging and broader program than the 3 or 4 subjects A Level qualifications." The IB program is predominantly offered by private schools in the independent education sector; only one state school in the UK currently offers IB preparation to its students.

Choosing the right school at this age is especially important, as the student and his parents strive to choose the optimal course of study that provides the student with a wide range of choices and is most suitable for practical application.

An incorrect decision at this stage can have the most serious consequences for the student’s future educational and career prospects. Those seeking admission to Oxbridge (Oxford or Cambridge) should at all costs avoid (with rare exceptions) subjects with the word "study" or the ending "-giya" in the title. If he's attracted to a career in media technology, a good command of English will likely open more doors than a less onerous "media studies" course; and knowledge of economics will provide a more solid foundation 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.

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

A college lyceum is a typically English institution where students typically prepare for A Level qualifications. Currently, there are more than 90 colleges of this type in England and Wales. Most of them demonstrate good results, reflected in national exam rankings. In addition, they offer a much wider range of subjects to study at a more affordable cost than most private secondary schools.

Almost all private schools offer students either A Level or IB qualifications, and some schools even offer a choice between these qualification levels. Changing schools and choosing subjects to study is considered common practice at this stage of education, with many universities “taking note” of students from certain schools.

Education in England is the desire of many students from all over the world - hundreds of thousands of students come to the United Kingdom every year to receive a high-quality, prestigious education. We will reveal the reasons for this popularity and prove to you that education in the UK is perhaps the best that a parent can give to their child. In this article you can find the key, main points - more information is presented in our official section.

Education in the UK: key benefits?

• Diplomas, certificates and certificates obtained in England are highly valued throughout the world, recognized internationally and considered very prestigious. This is a guarantee of a successful career and a high, prestigious position and good salary
• The most advanced and latest teaching methods, modern equipment and technology are used here, and the professionalism of teachers and curators is at an unusually high level
• invariably occupy the top lines of all kinds of world rankings - in many countries it was the British educational model that became the basis for the national system
• The universality of the English language - it is English that is used all over the world in the fields of business, trade, tourism, science, information technology, etc. And where can it be best, if not in the country of its origin, in an atmosphere of complete linguistic and cultural immersion?
• Compared to similar European and American programs, British study areas do not differ much in price. An advantage is the fact that a bachelor’s degree here can be obtained in just 3 years (instead of 4), and a master’s degree in just a year (instead of two), which is significant for study and living expenses
• The multicultural and multinational nature of Britain provides the best environment for developing a sense of belonging to a single world culture: true cosmopolitans and citizens of the world study here, ready for life in a globalized society
• The history of the educational system goes back not even tens, but hundreds of years! Educational traditions here have been strengthened over the centuries. Even during the Middle Ages, educational activities were carried out by monks and church leaders, and the legendary university citadels have not given up their high positions for more than 700 years. At the same time, the national system continues to actively develop, modernize, and keep up with the times: there are large government subsidies. According to statistics, British scientists have collectively received more Nobel Prizes than scientists from any other country in the world (except the USA), and in the total amount of world scientific research, the work of scientists from the Foggy Albion is about 5%.
• Constant control over the quality of education and service: each educational institution, regardless of its age and prestige, regularly undergoes many inspections and certifications. Independent organizations such as the Office for Standards in Education, The British Council and the British Accreditation Council are responsible for this.

Education system in Great Britain

I.Primary and secondary education.

According to the laws, it is mandatory. The youngest students, toddlers, can attend kindergartens, and after finishing secondary education, they can continue their studies at a college or university or start working. In general terms, the education systems in England, Scotland and Wales are the same, but there are many differences between them.

Educational institutions are divided into public and private. They differ in cost and admission conditions, curricula and semester lengths, but most often have the same exam conditions, study structure and level of academic preparation (the latter must meet unified state standards).

1) Pre-school education (3-4 years).

This level is not mandatory: according to statistics, only 30% of children 3-4 years old study in such institutions.

2) Primary and secondary school (5-16 years old).

Primary school lasts from ages 5 to 11, and secondary school ends at age 16 with first-level examinations. Students who choose an academic course (often called a theoretical course) receive a General Certificate of Secondary Education (in Scotland its equivalent is the Scottish Certificate of Education). Upon completion of professional (practical) training, a General National Vocational Qualification is issued, but other types of certificates and qualifications are also provided.

As for private schools, they most often accept children from the age of 7 (before that, children are offered kindergartens or preparatory classes) - in primary school they study until the age of 13, and in secondary school until the age of 16 (they also take first-level exams).

3) Senior classes (advanced level, 16-18 years old).

By this time, students have already decided on their future plans: start working, go to college or university. In the latter case, students are expected to take special two-year preparatory courses: having passed the first level specialized exams, students enter the so-called. Typically, high school students are offered a wide list of subjects, from which they independently choose the highest priority options, based on their own interests, tastes, abilities, and the requirements of the chosen university and profession. At the age of 17-18 (a little earlier in Scotland), advanced, second-level exams (A-level, its equivalent in Scotland - Highers) are taken, which leads to GCSE or GCE A-levels. If the student has completed a vocational training program, he receives a GNVQ/NVQ Advanced qualification and diploma.

An alternative to the traditional English path is the International Baccalaureate (IB) course. It unites educational standards from different countries of the world and unifies requirements for students. It is even more in-depth and rich than the A-level: 6 selected specialized subjects are studied, a personal research project and course work are written. But all efforts are rewarded: the IB certificate provides a significant advantage for European and American universities (the latter even enroll the applicant directly into the second year).

II.University preparatory programs.

Unfortunately, a Russian certificate is not a sufficient document for admission to British universities, so Foundation preparatory courses will be useful for Russian students. This is the most optimal, profitable and shortest route to a university or college, and the requirements for admission here are minimal:

• Certificate of Secondary Education
• A short essay about yourself, your goals and interests
• Certificate of English Language Proficiency (usually accepted by IELTS or TOEFL).

During the year at the Foundation, students get acquainted with the customs and culture of Great Britain, adapt to the peculiarities of the national educational system, principles and rules of education, and also significantly improve their language level and pass qualifying exams. The language program includes the development of written and oral speech, reading and listening skills, study of grammar and vocabulary. Additionally, students study academic subjects (mainly those that they plan to choose at university in the future). A lot of time is devoted not only to practical and theoretical classes, but also to independent work: in the library, self-study class, computer and scientific laboratory, while writing personal or collective research projects. With the help of professional teachers, curators, and consultants, students finally make their choice of university and future profession and specialization.
Reception is held 1-2 times a year (exact dates are set by each institution independently).

III.Higher education.

Students can get an education in the most relevant and prestigious areas, master specialized valuable skills that will significantly increase their popularity in the international labor market. All over the world they are valued incredibly highly, providing the opportunity to occupy a high and profitable position and quickly move up the career ladder. If a foreign graduate decides to stay in the country, the government will support this initiative - you can try to obtain a legal work permit. For example, Scotland gives the right to all graduates, without exception, to work for two years after graduation!

The following degrees are accepted in the British system:

• Undergraduate (first higher education, or bachelor):

• B.A.(humanitarian sciences)
• BSc(natural Sciences)
• LLB(right)
• BEd(educational sciences)
• EEng(Technical science)
• BMus(music)
• BM or BS(medicine)
• Postgraduate (second, or post-higher, master's degree):
  • PGCE, Postgraduate Certificate in Education(teaching certificate)
  • DMS, Diploma of Graduate Studies(management)
  • MA, Master of Arts(humanitarian sciences)
  • MSc, Master of Science(Technical science)
  • MBA, Master of Business Administration(business administration)
  • LLM, Master of Law(right).

The Undergraduate program is offered at more than 180 institutions in the United Kingdom. Typically, training takes 3 years (4 in Scotland), but the exception is the fields of medicine, dentistry and architecture - the training lasts 5-7 years.

Postgraduate is any continuation of education after the first stage. This degree (usually called a master's) can be obtained in 1-2 years if the student speaks English well enough and, of course, has an Undergraduate diploma. All programs are divided into two types:

1) Theoretical course (taught program)

Students' results are assessed primarily through written work, the largest of which is the thesis (20,000 words or more). Graduates of this course receive a diploma, degree or certificate.

2) Research program

Here, independent and practical research prevails over theoretical lectures and group lessons - usually student projects are included in a single large university project. The highest degree is Doctor of Philosophy, or PhD.

How to enter UK universities?

Higher education in the UK can safely be called an enduring value - its prestige, quality and relevance have been tested over centuries of successful work. However, the difficult question of choosing an educational institution remains: how to make sure that you do not waste money, so that the training fully meets your needs, and not be deceived in your expectations?

Get ready for the fact that it is quite difficult for Russian students to enter universities in England: it is not a matter of lack of intellectual preparation, but of technical and formal issues. What options are there for successful admission?

1) Graduate from a British school (private or public), including a program for high school students (British A-level or International Baccalaureate). Good grades at graduation, a certificate with a high score practically guarantees admission to the chosen university. But, of course, this method will only work if you have not yet reached school age.

2) Complete 11 classes at a secondary school in Russia (get a complete secondary education) and enroll in the UK for a Russian course. The British are confident that a Russian school certificate is not enough to enroll in a university: it is believed that their school program is more complete, in-depth and rich, which is why Russian students require additional academic preparation. In fact, our experience shows that studying at the Foundation is needed more for the psychological preparation of the student. This helps him get comfortable in a new cultural and linguistic environment, get used to the peculiarities of the local educational system, learn to think more freely and defend his opinion, and show initiative. Unfortunately, in Russian schools there is still a strong tradition of rote learning, the most accurate retelling of known facts, while in the United Kingdom the approach is radically different. In addition, the course helps to significantly improve the level of the English language: universities in England most often require IELTS 6.0-6.5 results, and a Russian student passes exams with an average of 5.5, and only if his school had strong linguistic preparation, he went on vacation to English-speaking countries and communicated with native speakers. Studying in the Foundation program will allow you to learn English in its living, changing, conversational form, improve communication and speech skills, and remove emotional and psychological barriers.

3) Graduate from a Russian school and complete the first year of a domestic university. Provided you have good academic performance and grades, as well as a high IELTS or TOEFL score, you will be able to be enrolled immediately in the second year - more than 110 universities in England provide this opportunity. For this purpose, a special centralized system Universities and Colleges Admissions Servives (UCAS) is used. Fill out an application form online, pay the registration fee (by bank card) and wait for an invitation from universities (applications can be submitted to 6 priority institutions at once). There are three answer options:

• “the application was rejected” (there is no point in waiting and appealing any longer)
• “you are accepted” (the most successful and, of course, desired option)
• “you are accepted conditionally” (the most common answer. In this case, you need to clarify the conditions under which the university did not admit you “unconditionally”, and improve the necessary parameters or skills).

You can take the IELTS test again if you are not satisfied with the results the first time. UK universities may ask you to send an academic transcript indicating your grades and points received. Please note that UCAS applications take place in winter/early spring, with actual application taking place in July/August. To submit your application correctly, we strongly recommend that you contact our specialists: such applications and questionnaires pay great attention to formalities and literacy, so any extra symbol or incorrectly ticked box may limit your opportunities for admission.

What tests are offered to applicants?

1) TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language).

One of the most famous English language proficiency tests, which was developed and approved by the American Council. Most often it is used when enrolling applicants to universities, during employment or advanced training. Today, testing is most often carried out online, using a PC (as is customary throughout the CIS - computer based test), but in some places there are also “paper” options (paper based). The exam includes 4 blocks: Listening (listening, listening comprehension), Speaking (speech and communication abilities), Reading (reading and understanding the original text), Writing (written speech and grammar).

2) IELTS (International English Language Testing System).

A test officially adopted by the British Council that tests the ability to use English in everyday, ordinary situations (General), or in an academic and scientific environment (Academic). It is also divided into 4 blocks of knowledge and skills: Listening (listening, listening comprehension), Speaking (speech and communication abilities), Reading (reading and understanding the original text), Writing (written speech and grammar).

3) GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test)

This exam is used mainly in the West for admission to master's programs and the MBA (Master of Business Administration) course. To get good results you need to be good at arithmetic, grammar, geometry; The following skills and abilities are also tested:

• Critical reasoning (language understanding and intelligence)
• Problem solving (mathematics and rational thinking)
• Data sufficiency (mathematics)
• Reading comprehension (reading and understanding original texts)
• Sentence correction (grammar, the ability to correctly form words into sentences and phrases, take into account the context).

Language training in the UK academic education

Today in Britain a great variety of different English language courses are offered, and there are several hundred schools, linguistic centers and camps. The most prestigious and top ones are accredited by the British Council and are members of ARELS (Association of Accredited English Language Schools) and other prestigious organizations and committees.

In England, every student can choose a suitable option for themselves, regardless of age and academic needs. An integrated approach is practiced here: all basic skills (reading, listening, writing and speaking) are practiced together, in the same context and in close relationship with each other. If you choose short-term courses (for example, vacation), then the emphasis will be on developing speech and communication skills.

Among the general variety of programs, several main types can be distinguished:

1) General, basic

Almost all educational institutions offer it. Reading, writing and speaking, listening skills, grammar and vocabulary are studied, pronunciation and communication skills are improved. You can choose standard, intensive and super-intensive options. Typically, lessons are held in the morning and lunch hours, and at other times students play sports and creativity, walk and socialize, prepare for lessons and go on excursions. Accordingly, the higher the academic intensity, the less time for leisure, but the faster the progress.

2) Exam preparation

This option is chosen by students who need to prepare for passing the selected language test - IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge CAE, Cambridge CPE and others - for admission to study or employment.

3) Academic year

In-depth, long-term study of the English language (from six months to a year), implying additional preparation for entering a college or university. The advantage is the affordable cost and obvious financial benefits, the disadvantage is strictly fixed start dates.

4) Business English

Business English is extremely popular among specialists in all fields of activity - it is the world's common language, without knowledge of which it is difficult to build a career in the modern world. Business English courses are popular among students, working professionals and heads of large companies - in short, with everyone who wants to quickly overcome the language barrier, easily conduct telephone and personal conversations, make presentations and documentation, and better understand their partners and colleagues around the world. Also, specialized knowledge of the language allows you to read the business press and follow business news from all countries, study catalogs and websites in the original, and hire staff from different countries.
Most often, business English courses are built in combination with the main program: 15-20 general lessons + 5-15 specialized lessons per week. The programs are designed in such a way as to take into account all the requests and requirements of a specific group of students, to learn English in the right context and in the conditions of its practical application. Various auxiliary materials are actively used: this documentation, records, telephone conversations, media and the Internet; Business role-playing games, simulated situations, discussions and seminars are constantly organized. In addition to the general improvement of their language level, students learn business etiquette, behavior in various situations, negotiations and presentations, skills of working in an international team, and the ability to conduct and organize an interview. Business English courses can have a different thematic focus, covering narrower and more specialized areas: for example, there are courses for top managers, for young and aspiring businessmen, programs for specialists in various fields (tourism, law, medicine, logistics, personnel services, secretariat and personal assistants, banking and insurance, energy, politics and much more).

5) English + recreation (sports, creativity, excursions, culture, etc.).

What parent would refuse the opportunity to organize not only fun and exciting, but also useful holidays for their child? Seasonal courses in the UK will help you both relax and significantly improve your language level - and all this in an intercultural, friendly, comfortable environment. In addition to effective academic lessons, students attend a great variety of leisure and entertainment activities, go on excursions, creative meetings and seminars, lectures by invited guests, engage in sports and creativity. The variety of combined courses is truly amazing - there is a suitable option and price for absolutely any student! The programs offered depend on the location of the institution (geography and climate), type of accommodation, type and intensity of language classes, opportunities for sports and active recreation, excursions, and cultural richness of the places.

Accommodation for students while studying

Each adult student is free to choose the most comfortable place of residence for himself:

• Hotel or hotel (quiet and comfortable, sufficient level of independence, excellent service; the downside is the price, especially in big cities like London)
• Student residence, dormitory (an option for active and sociable people, constant communication with peers from other countries. The disadvantages include shared amenities, kitchens and lounges (more common than in-room amenities).
• Accommodation with a host family - this option is especially often chosen by students of short-term and seasonal courses (low price, meals are provided. An excellent opportunity to constantly practice language skills with direct native speakers, learn more about British traditions, history, culture and customs).

For students who choose the longest programs, we most often recommend first staying with a family for 1-2 months in order to fully and calmly get used to and adapt to the new environment, and only then, if necessary, change the choice of housing.

Employment of foreign students while studying in England

Typically, in the UK, unlike in Russia, part-time work while studying is not accepted. It is understood that if a person has chosen an expensive education abroad, then he is able to provide for himself, including accommodation and food. But many students start working not because of a lack of money, but to gain useful experience, make new acquaintances, get to know the life of the country from the inside and improve their level of English as much as possible. Many educational institutions support this desire and are happy to help their students find temporary work.

According to official legislation, students can work up to 20 hours weekly if their program lasts more than 6 months. Get ready for the fact that even a relatively high salary will not be able to cover the cost of study, but it is quite possible to compensate for the costs of food, transportation and partially housing!

As in Russia, job offers are not diverse: usually they are representatives of unskilled professions - maids, couriers and loaders, assistants, salesmen and dishwashers. If you have a really high level of English and you can prove that you can communicate on equal terms with native speakers, then you may be offered the position of a hotel receptionist or receptionist, a waiter or a bartender (among other things, tips and meals are an additional advantage here, as well as the opportunity residence). There is also the opportunity to work for the family you live with: some of the owners of the house need to babysit a child, help with cleaning or in the garden, walk the dog, go to the dry cleaner or store - don’t refuse such offers!

Where do they usually look for job offers?

• Among local acquaintances (“word of mouth”)
• In local newspapers and media
• On the notice board at your educational institution (the best option is to find part-time work for half a day, weekends)
• In special employment centers - they often work in educational institutions, compile their own databases, and publish newspapers and booklets. Specialists will help you create a short resume, suggest the most attractive and affordable options, and give recommendations regarding internships or work placements.

Please note the following restrictions regarding working abroad:

• You cannot work full time
• You cannot open your own business
• You cannot be a professional trainer or instructor
• The money you plan to earn cannot be used as a basis for obtaining a visa - you must demonstrate your financial solvency without the need for work or government assistance. The exception is salary that you are scheduled to pay for positions directly at the college or university if you receive such a valuable offer.

The UK education system is a product that has taken centuries to perfect. In the 21st century it is considered the standard. It was this system that provided the core for the educational lines of the states. Both before and now, teenagers go to England to get a competitive education.

The higher education system in Great Britain consists of 4 periods:

• Preparation;
• General;
• After school;
• Higher.

The levels of education in England include postgraduate courses.

Compulsory education in the UK is eleven years. As the name suggests, this is the minimum that is inevitable to pass. It has a couple of stages:

• Initial;
• General.

Preparatory education

The process of studying in Foggy Albion begins from a very young age. Children literally from the age of two already begin to gnaw on the granite of science. Primary education in the UK is carried out through:

• Nursery;
• Kindergartens (Nursery School);
• Primary schools;
• Full cycle institutes (from two to 18 years).

As we see, even kindergartens are called not kindergartens, but schools. And their programs are special. The emphasis is not on sending the child somewhere while the parents are at work, but on ensuring that the child can master basic educational materials from an early age.

Secondary education

The school education system in Great Britain is not only a school area. In Britain there are also institutions of a different format. What are they needed for? Everything is aimed at ensuring that the parent can choose education in harmony with personal conditions. If a university is planned, one school is chosen; if parents want special educational schemes, another school is chosen:

• Boarding school. Status studies aimed at enrolling in universities. Specifics: the teenager lives there all year. Single-sex boarding schools are in demand in the country. Russians can also enter the establishments;
• Private schools. Specifics: personal approach, detailed study of the material, availability of all tools and equipment in the school. The doors of commercial schools are also open to Russians;
• Public Schools. Only an Englishman can study in them without spending money.

Colleges in England for Russians, schools where teachers communicate in the Russian language have not been created. Education is only in English.

There are types of schools with specifics:

• Grammatical. This is the path to mastering academic knowledge. Such schools are relevant if a teenager plans to try himself as a university representative;
• Modern. Emphasis on applied learning. Schools of this specificity become relevant when a person plans to begin mastering a working qualification;
• Standard. Training according to a standard in which the load is uniform. These are general establishments.

International colleges are a chance to obtain a high school diploma. They enter at the age of 14-18 years. Colleges have programs for admission to higher education. Passing them guarantees admission to a university without introductory tests.

Exams in the UK take place when teenagers leave school. They contain the delivery of 6-8 items. If a person sees himself as a university student in the future, he will need to take mathematics, a foreign language, natural sciences, and English.

Video about British schools

Post-secondary education

Places for mastering professional programs (Tertiary College) are an analogue of schools with an emphasis on preparation for enrollment in a university. What does vocational education offer in the UK? This offer is for teenagers who have decided not to pursue higher education, but still want to be competitive in the job market. An issued diploma is a pass to work in your chosen field.

You will have to spend 2 years on post-secondary education. The main goal is to pass the A-Level exam.

Its specificity:

• The student must expect examinations after each year, as in normal studies;
• In the first year a person chooses 4-5 disciplines;
• In the second year, a person chooses 3-4 directions;
• Subjects are not chosen spontaneously. It is expected that the teenager has already understood what he wants to become. Lessons are selected in accordance with its purpose.

Post-secondary education is provided for implementation by the following institutions:

• Colleges;
• Institutes where lessons are tailored both for university programs and for professional places of study;
• In institutes.

Most often, for Russians, the A-Level program is the first step on the path to education in Foggy Albion. Russians can switch to the Foundation program. Its specificity:

• Election of 1-2 disciplines;
• Studying the language of the state.

Through the efforts of representatives of training structures and employers, a different version of the Foundation program was created. Its specificity:

• Duration of completion: 12 months;
• This is an option for teenagers and adults who work. These programs are specifically for the busy person.

Higher education

The primary education of universities is called undergraduate. In the UK, there is a two-level training scheme. If in our country such a scheme appeared only in 2002, then in England it was perfected centuries ago.

Higher education in the UK is implemented through:

• State universities;
• Prof. colleges;
• Private universities;
• For-profit colleges;
• State colleges.

In Britain there are degrees:

• In art;
• In economic sciences;
• On architecture;
• Accounting;
• In engineering.

You need to pay money for it. But the British can also get budget places. Russians and other foreign citizens cannot apply for the budget. Only a teenager or an adult who has completed post-secondary education can enroll in them. The following data is requested for the device:

• Points already acquired in exams or expected points;
• A compact essay regarding goals, justification for why the teenager chose a specific field;
• List of universities desirable for admission;
• Characteristics from school.

Secondary education in the Russian Federation will not be a pass to universities in England. What to do? You need to study for two years at a university in the Russian Federation and pass the IELTS test, which will “tell” you have mastered the language.

For studying in England, legalization of a Russian diploma is relevant: translating it into English, meeting with a notary. It is necessary to confirm the authenticity of the diploma.

A student who graduates from the university becomes a bachelor.

The higher education system in England will take 3-4 years. The exact timing depends on the chosen future work.

Video about higher education in England

Postgraduate education

Postgraduate education in England includes postgraduate and doctoral studies. There are four postgraduate study programs in England:

• Schemes for passing to a master's degree. It will take from six months to a year;
• Programs in specialties, through a number of which you can obtain a master's degree;
• Academic and research programs through which you can obtain a master's degree;
• Doctoral studies. It will take 5-8 years.

There is one more difference from the domestic educational scheme - in Britain the master's degree is an autonomous institution. This is not a transformation of the bachelor's level, as is customary in Russian reality.

A master's degree will take a year of time. The educational process is short, but very intense. The demands on students are strict.

How to get into a master's program? A bachelor's degree is the ticket for admission. If a person has received master's status, he can choose to continue his postgraduate studies through doctoral studies. A test and interview are required. Foreigners must provide an IELTS certificate confirming the required level of knowledge of the official language of Britain.

Grading system

The UK grading system is not uniform. That is, it, unlike our fatherland, is diverse. Based on these factors, the evaluation structure is selected:

• Region;
• Specifics of training.

There are two rating systems:

Holidays in the UK

Studying in England in the summer for children is usually aimed at understanding the language. However, courses for teenagers are also offered:

• In art;
• By design;
• In acting and others.

They facilitate the development of new skills. Since training involves intensive communication with the British, improving your English skills is a bonus.

Getting an education for Russians

Education in England for Russians ideally takes place when the child is very young. To implement this, a commercial school is selected. In this option, the teenager will have time to adapt to English standards, master the language, and get used to the environment. How much does it cost to study in England? Institutional policy is the center of decisions. The estimated price for commercial schools in the country will be 4-5 thousand pounds per term.

This is only relevant for those students who are eager to get into Cambridge or other high-status universities. If the ambitions of the teenager and his parents are not so great, you can prefer small private schools, the price of education in which is equal, give or take, 2 thousand pounds.

Can studying in England be free? Unfortunately, Russians have practically no access to education, for which they do not have to pay money. However, you can still acquire education without paying money for it using the following schemes:

• Registration of citizenship, which will make it possible to apply for budget places;
• Participation in international programs;
• Exchange trips, if the Russian university has established contacts with local universities;
• Grants for studying in England;
• Scholarships from the Russian Federation or from British universities.

By the way, some people are so obsessed with studying in Foggy Albion that they try to achieve their dream using very extravagant methods. For example, applying for refugee status. But this is a labor-intensive path, since refugee status with all its privileges is not granted to everyone.

To solve the problem of paying for tuition, it is better to contact directly a representative of the educational institution where the teenager dreams of enrolling. In a personal case, it is possible to reduce the cost of training.

In conclusion, it can be noted that when it comes to education, most people are stopped by the significant price and the fact that foreigners have to pay for education. However, ways to solve the financial problem are possible. To find them, it is recommended to contact representatives of institutions directly, since information about grants and programs is not widely advertised.