An individual project plan for the education system in the UK. Education in England

Education abroad has always been considered a prestigious matter, especially for the younger generation, so today I will share with you my observations on how education is conducted in British schools.

First of all, it is worth saying that our schools are very different from British ones. If it is customary for us to send children to study at about six or seven years old, then children are sent to study at about five years old.

In general, all training there is divided into three stages. The first is an elementary school, like ours. There, children study until the age of twelve or thirteen, and study the required number of subjects, there are about 12 of them. After that, the child goes to secondary school, where he studies until he is sixteen years old. There, schoolchildren eventually pass the exam and receive a semblance of our certificate, with which it is quite possible to go to college. And finally, the third stage is graduate School where they study until adulthood. There, the emphasis is only on the subjects necessary for admission to the university, and at the end of the school, graduates take a special exam. An important plus is that the result of this exam is already the basis for enrolling in a university, that is, you will not have to take exams even upon admission.

With discipline in English schools Oh everything is strict, so it will be useful to send unlucky and restless children here to study. It is customary to wear a school uniform. Schoolchildren live in boarding houses near the school. Moreover, boys separately, girls separately. Several people are accommodated in one room, privileges are given only to students from the age of 16 - they are accommodated one or two people per room.

The learning process has its own characteristics. For example, if we give marks only for the final answer, then in England the student receives marks even for trying to answer, if it was in the right direction. This greatly encourages children to study.

Teachers pay the main attention to the fact that the child is comprehensively developed and can speak out on any problem. Therefore, students are constantly asked to say what they think about this or that matter, and this is also appreciated.

In the UK, it is also considered polite to thank the teacher if he made a remark or gave you an instruction. At first, Russian children and their parents who live in England cannot accept this fact for a long time, because Russians do not really like criticism.

To prepare your child for admission to English school First of all, he must know at least the basic basics of the English language. It would be helpful to send him to a summer school for an English language program. Also, together with the child, you need to learn some important points about culture and so that the child feels comfortable and confident in a new country. For admission, the child must pass a special test, which is sent to his school directly from England, and based on the results of this test, talented students are selected who are already being interviewed by representatives of English schools.

In principle, it is not so difficult. But the result will make itself felt: the child will confidently know English, acquire the skill of communicating with foreigners and get a lot of impressions about the culture and customs of another country!

The British are convinced that all the best in our life owes its origin to England. The UK education system, like all English, is considered the standard of quality. At least, the educational systems of other countries are constantly compared with the British. It was formed many centuries ago, and during this time it has not undergone major changes. Distinctive features British schools, for example, it is an "iron" discipline, classical teaching methods, an established educational process, a versatile program to prepare students for life in the business world and society.

Particularly well represented in the UK elite education system.

High-ranking families from around the world try to enroll their children in prestigious British schools or universities, as studying in them guarantees not only the acquisition of deep knowledge, but the acquisition of secular manners, the British style of behavior and wide connections in the world of business and politics.

british system sufficient flexibility. Among the many different training courses, you can always find exactly the one that suits you, and, if desired, the selected subjects can be changed.

Regardless of age, nationality and religion, anyone who successfully passes the entrance examinations can study at educational institutions in the UK (you must pass an international English exam, documents from the school, sometimes pass a test educational institution)

Secondary education

Modern education system in the UK consists of four stages: primary (Elementary School), secondary (Secondary School), vocational or post-school (Further Education) and higher (Higher Education).

preschool education takes place in kindergartens and preschool classes. Primary education is given to children from 5 to 11-12 years old. From the age of 5, children attend two-year schools for toddlers (pre-preparatory school), from 7 to 11 years old - primary schools (primary, elementary or preparatory school). From 11-12 years of age, the stage of secondary education begins for children.

The UK has public and private schools. All schools adhere to the same educational minimum. Compulsory free secondary education for schoolchildren under 16 was introduced by law.

School graduates take final exams and receive GCSE certificate of secondary education(General Certificate of Secondary Education). This certificate is sufficient to start self-employment, but does not give the right to enter higher education institutions.

State Schools- free, designed for teaching English children, as well as for foreigners from 8 to 18 years old, whose parents have the right to permanent residence in the UK.

International Colleges (International Colleges)- secondary educational institutions that accept only foreign students from 14 to 18 years old. Accommodation is offered both in student dormitories (on the school grounds) and in host families.

AT international colleges training is conducted in accordance with the British system high school. Subjects taught: mathematics, physics, algebra and geometry, chemistry, biology, geography, human anatomy, sociology, political science, fundamentals of legislation, statistics, history, music, art, computers and programming, English, English literature, fundamentals of religion, one or more foreign languages ​​(French, German, Spanish, etc.).

In addition to the main subjects, each school has additional ones, such as Latin, accounting, business basics, economics, and some others.

International Colleges along with school programs, they offer preparatory programs (Foundation) for university applicants. After successful graduation, graduates are enrolled in universities with which there is an agreement on the recognition of the status of these courses. For foreigners who want to get higher education in the UK, this is a very convenient opportunity.

The main condition for admission to a British university is the presence international certificate for English language.

A year of study in the preparatory courses is good practice and preparation for self-study in English at the university, and, in addition, the opportunity to prepare and pass the required language exam.

Private schools (Independent Schools)- a more prestigious form of education mainly for English children (85%). The percentage of foreign students should be no more than 15%. These schools cater for children between the ages of 8 and 18.

Good private schools are independent, well-equipped educational institutions that own about several hundred hectares of land, on the territory of which there are educational buildings, sports facilities, a swimming pool, residences for living. Accommodation is mainly in residence, but some schools offer accommodation in local families.

Public and private boarding schools, as a rule, have a good reputation, a long history and traditions.

Professional education

In addition to schools in Britain, there are Tertiary Colleges that offer professional (Vocational) education and are an alternative to A Level programs.

Professional education received at Tertiary College suggests professional activity upon graduation, while A Level programs are prepared for admission to the university.

Educational programs are constantly changing. The qualifications that are awarded at the end of these programs are also changing. Below are the most common professional qualifications.

NVQ (National Vocational Qualification).

This qualification is for practical work. It confirms the ability of a graduate to perform a certain job in a particular area of ​​business or production. NVQ standards are based on the real requirements of employers and reflect their practical needs.

NVQ qualifications are now possible in most areas of manufacturing and commerce. There are 5 levels of NVQ from Foundation Skills (NVQ 1) to Professional (NVQ 5). In order to qualify, it is necessary to show in practice the ability to perform work in accordance with established standards.

The training takes place directly at the workplace. The training program consists of separate modules that can be mastered independently. due date there is no training during which the program must be completed.

GNVQ (General National Vocational Qualification).

Unlike A Levels, it is suitable for those who are prone to practical activities. The GNVQ, like the NVQ, is a multi-level qualification that provides a foundation of knowledge in the chosen field that the student can use to continue their studies at colleges of further education, university entrance (GNVQ Advanced) or employment. The Advanced level requires nearly two years of study to complete.

ND (National Diploma).

This qualification is similar to the GNVQ Advanced qualification. Colleges of Further Education (Colleges of Further Education) allow you to complete a program of further education, culminating in exams and the issuance of the highest national diploma (Higher National Diploma, the common abbreviation - HND).

HND can be obtained after two years of study in almost any academic or professional specialty.

In the field of vocational education, diplomas issued by one of the three main examination committees are most highly valued and recognized: the CGLI (City & Guilds of London Institute) diploma, the RSA (Royal Society of Arts) diploma, and the BTEC (Business and Technical Education Council) diploma. Many colleges are authorized to issue degrees on behalf of one of these examination committees.

Other institutions issue either their own diplomas and certificates or diplomas from other examination committees. The HND diploma is of the greatest importance for those who are going to immediately engage in professional activities, after receiving a bachelor's degree.

From the point of view of a professional career, this diploma allows you to move up the career ladder within the middle technical or junior management of a company, enterprise, institution.

Diploma allows you to enter the university in one of the programs leading to a bachelor's degree and receive a degree in just two years.

To enroll in HND programs, you must have a GCE / A Level, GNVQ Advanced, or National Diploma certificate of secondary education.

The definition of "Further Education" in the UK refers to professional education not leading to a degree or its equivalent. The definition of "higher education" (Higher Education) in the UK refers to programs whose purpose is to award a degree (Degree): Bachelor Degree, Master Degree or Doctoral (Doctoral or PhD Degree).

Higher education

In England and Wales, a bachelor's degree requires three years of study, in Scotland four. In the case when obtaining a degree requires not only study, but also industrial practice (Sandwich courses), general term lengthen accordingly.

At some universities and colleges, those students who intend to earn a degree in some specific field, such as art and design, are required to first take a basic course, and then spend three years in their chosen field.

Training course ending with a bachelor's degree, in fields such as medicine, dentistry and architecture, usually lasts up to seven years.

Bachelor degree. There are several options for the bachelor's degree awarded in the UK. Their name depends on the specialization. The four main degrees are Bachelor of Arts BA (Bachelor of Arts), Bachelor of Science BSC (Bachelor of Science), Bachelor of Engineering BENG (Bachelor of Engineering), Bachelor of Law LLB (Bachelor of Law). There is also a Bachelor of Medicine and Dentistry.

The bachelor's degree is awarded after three or four years of specialized full-time study at a university or college. The British Bachelor's degree is recognized all over the world, which gives high chances for a successful professional career in any country. Bachelor Degree is the first stage of higher education. The second step is Master Degree.

Postgraduate Courses. This level of education begins after a bachelor's degree and leads to a master's and doctoral degree.

Master's Degree. There are two types of programs: programs focused on research activities and programs focused on professional development in one of the specializations.

As a rule, master's programs consist of a course of lectures and seminars, exams are taken, then students make a graduation project. According to the results of exams and defense thesis a master's degree is awarded.

Master's research degree (Research) is called the Master of Philosophy M.Phil (Master of Philosophy). This degree is obtained after 1-2 years of independent scientific work under the supervision of a supervisor. Based on the results of this work, a master's degree is awarded.

Doctor's Degree (Doctor of Philosophy - Doctoral or PhD Degree). In the UK, most doctoral programs are purely research projects. No lectures or training seminars are usually held.

The supervisor, in whose laboratory or department the student is preparing to receive a doctoral degree, determines the topic of scientific research for the student and provides the opportunities necessary for research (workplace, equipment and materials).

It takes 2-3 years to complete a research program. By the end of this period, the student must publish the results obtained in official reports, in scientific or specialized journals and write a dissertation based on published materials. The doctoral degree is awarded after successfully defending a dissertation.

TEN- a group (association) of independent British schools with a very high reputation, operating in the educational services market for more than 30 years.

The Association was founded in 2010 to carry out joint marketing activities and exchange of experience, which improves the quality of work of school personnel with foreign students.

TEN participating schools are located in ten different cities UK: London, Cambridge, Eastbourne, Brighton, Bournemouth, Torquay, Bristol, Oxford and Chester.

BEET Language Center- a small "chamber" school, founded in 1979, is located in the city of Bournemouth. Highly qualified teaching staff ensures the quality of education. A center for the training of teachers of English as a foreign language has been established on the basis of the school. www.beet.co.uk

Cambridge Academy of English- the school was founded in 1975, located on the outskirts of Cambridge, offers quality English programs for foreign students, specialized programs such as English + business, English + law, academic English (preparation for the university).

In the summer, on the basis of private boarding schools Moreton Hall and Princes Helena College, it offers interesting and high-quality programs for students from 9 to 17 years old. www.cabridgeacademy.co.uk

Eastbourne School of English- one of the oldest language schools in the UK, founded in 1936. Located in the heart of the resort town of Eastbourne, where there are many restaurants, cafes, three theaters, a cinema and a lot of greenery. All year round accepts foreign students over 18 years of age. The school is a center for the training of teachers of English as a foreign language. www.esoe.co.uk

Excel English- the school offers quality programs for students accredited by the British Council, and the combination of professional teachers and excellent technical equipment allows students to learn the material in the shortest possible time.

Here you can see modernized classrooms, the combination of green and yellow has a positive effect on the psychological state of students and the comprehensibility of the material. The school is located in one of the expensive residential areas of London, with gardens where you can relax after school. www.excelenlish.co.uk

English in Chester School founded in 1976 as a medium-sized private school, of which there are many in the UK. As a rule, this is a family business that guarantees you quality in everything from training and accommodation to interesting leisure activities. There is only one reason for this - the desire of the owners that you like it, and you would like to return.

Here is a wonderful habitat, a good national composition. At the same time, students from Italy, Switzerland, Spain, Germany, France, North Korea, the Czech Republic and Russia study here. www.english-in-chester.co.uk

Oxford English Center- the school was founded in 1979, located in an old building in the heart of Oxford, close to university colleges, well equipped (interactive whiteboards in the classroom), is an authorized TOEIC, BULATS (business) reception center. Here students can study General English and English for professional purposes. www.oxfordenglish.co.uk

The English Language Centre, Brighton– the school was founded in 1962 as an independent educational institution. 2012 marks the 50th anniversary of its founding. Located in an old building of the Victorian era in the white-stone resort of Brighton, on the coast.

Offers quality programs for adult students throughout the year, is an authorized admission center for TOEIC BULATS. www.elc-brighton.co.uk

The English Language Centre, Bristol- a small family school, located in two old buildings near Clifton University in Bristol. Beautiful bright classrooms, a well-equipped computer laboratory enable students to master the material well.

The school offers a wide range of English language programs for international students. Provides an individual approach to each student. www.elcbristol.co.uk

Torquay International School, Torquay- the school has existed for 40 years, located in the wonderful seaside town of the same name on the British Riviera in Devon. Accepts students from the age of 16. Particular attention is paid to teaching English for professional purposes, including business English, English for financial professionals.

Organizes an interesting program of active events in the afternoon. Provides an individual approach to each student. www.tisenglish.co.uk

Wimbledon School of English- a small building in one of the districts of London - Wimbledon, surrounded by a wonderful garden, a 5-minute walk from Wimbledon station.

Technical equipment (interactive whiteboards in almost every class) in combination with highly qualified teachers ensures high results when moving from level to level.

Offers English for professionals, preparation for international exams in English, courses for teachers.

9.4k (69 per week)

It is impossible to imagine the UK developed in all spheres without a clear educational process verified over the years. Despite some conservatism in the educational field, one cannot but admit that it is one of the best in the modern world.
Speaking about education in the United Kingdom, it should be understood that in fact there are 2 different systems- one in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, and the other in Scotland. Both of these systems are thoroughly developed and fully meet the needs of society.

Features of the educational system

For more than 70 years, the education system in the UK has been governed by the Education Act, signed in 1944. This important document is more about school education, but it also notes many aspects of the entire educational system as a whole.

Education in the UK is divided into 5 stages:

• preschool - for children 3-4 years old;
• primary - for students 5-11 years old;
• secondary - for students aged 11-16;
• after school - for students aged 16-18;
• higher - for students from 18 years.

Education for children aged 5 to 16 is compulsory. Whether it is worth studying for a child under 5 years old, his parents decide, and whether it is necessary to get an education after 16 years old, the citizen himself decides. The system is designed in such a way that students can complete some educational levels in one educational institution, while others require training in specialized institutions.

Preschool education

Pre-school education in the UK is an integral part of the full cycle educational school, and often kindergartens are part of primary schools. Children aged 3-4 years can attend kindergartens or nurseries at the request of their parents. There, kids are taught to write, read and count, they develop them comprehensively with the help of games. There are public and private preschool institutions.
British pre-school education is limited to ages 2-7, but in fact most children are in a nursery from 2 to 4 years old, after which they are sent to primary school.
For full-time kindergarten services, you must pay or give the child to a free nursery, but they are designed for only 2-3 hours a day. The average cost of British pre-school education is significantly higher than in other European countries, so the country provides parents with special loan programs.

Primary School

In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, primary school education can start at different ages:

• from 4 to 11 years old (Primary School) with a 7-year period of study;
• from 7 to 13 years old (Junior School) with a 6-year period of study.

In Scotland, the primary school entry policy is somewhat different in that the formation of school groups depends on which month of which year the child was born:

• children born from March to August go to school from 5-5.5 years old;
• children born between September and February go to school at 4 years - 4 years and 11 months.

Experts believe that the Scottish system of forming school groups is more flexible.
Primary school teaches geography, history, mathematics, English, music, art and industrial technology. All these subjects in elementary school are chosen by parents for their children.
Pupils in UK schools study for 6 semesters or terms, starting classes in September and ending in July. The academic year lasts 38 weeks, there are also holidays of 2-3 weeks for Christmas and Easter holidays, as well as 6 weeks in the summer. In the middle of each trimester, children are given another 1 week break. In most cases, education in schools is 5 days.
Schools have their own examination systems. In the Primary School, this is SATS, which is held 2 times: one 2 years after the start of training and one more at the end educational stage. The Junior School conducts an exam "11+" - it is the final one for training. Both of these exams are required for the transition from primary to secondary school.

secondary school

General Features

At the age of 11-13, children go to secondary school and study there until the age of 17. This period of study is also compulsory for all UK citizens. Upon graduation, students receive GCSE (General Certificate of Secondary Education) - a certificate of secondary education. There are also schools in the country that issue GNVQ (General National Vocational Qualification) - a certificate of professional qualification.
Immigrant children are also enrolled in secondary schools from the age of 11-13, but most often they are assigned to boarding schools.
After 2 years of high school, all students take the 13+ Common Entrance Examination or Common Entrance Examinations in subjects such as:

• English (British and International);
• mathematics (calculation in the mind, with and without a calculator);
• geography, history;
• Latin and Greek writing;
• chemistry, physics or biology;
• Irish and Welsh (for Northern Ireland and Wales respectively);
• foreign languages to choose from.

Based on the results of the exam, students receive a pass to further education in secondary school. In the period of 14-17 years, students prepare for the General Certificate of Secondary Education exams - this is the final test for obtaining a certificate of secondary education. The list of examination subjects is repeated by analogy with "13+" with the addition of several more disciplines.
School education in the UK is characterized by strict discipline, for example, for absenteeism or poor academic performance, a student can be expelled from school.
If parents wish to homeschool their child, they must obtain official permission from the Board of Education.

Private schools

Private schools in the UK are called public schools - this is educational organizations full or partial board, which is less common. They are closed institutions of an educational type, where students are fully supported, that is, they study and live there. These schools have become traditional in the United Kingdom and are a prominent feature of British private education.
Private schools undoubtedly have advantages over public ones - they have more subjects studied, a strong material base, the teaching staff has highly qualified. All this has led to the fact that graduates of private British schools are more likely to enter a higher educational institution.

Secondary special education

In addition to schools, there are institutions in the United Kingdom called Tertiary Colleges where students can receive professional education, i.e. a specific profession (the English equivalent of our vocational schools). Education in such institutions is an alternative to the A-Levels programs, which will be discussed later, but unlike them, Tertiary Colleges involve subsequent professional activities, that is, a less flexible approach to further possible training.
For institutions of this type, a private change in educational programs is typical.

Post-secondary education

After graduating from high school, every Briton has two paths to choose from: either go to work or continue their studies at a college or university. If a person chooses the second, then he must receive additional preparatory education, that is, take two-year A-Levels courses. They represent the study of profile 4-5 disciplines in the first year and another 3-4 disciplines in the second year. The student himself chooses which disciplines to study, since they determine his future specialization.
Every year, students must take exams, but they are not clearly regulated, the student himself can choose those subjects that he wants from the total number of proposed disciplines.
If a foreigner comes to the UK for higher education, then his journey begins with A-Levels courses. For foreigners, a more simplified, but more intensive option (only for 1 year) is possible under the Foundation program. Its peculiarity is that the student pays his attention to only 1-2 specialized subjects and in-depth study of the language in order to understand academic English university vocabulary in the future.

Higher education

General information

The last stage of students is higher education, which students become at the age of 18. It starts at the bachelor's level, which lasts 3-4 years (in the field of medicine - 6 years). If a bachelor's degree takes 4 years of a student's time, then in the 4th year they offer knowledge for the first level of a master's degree.
Anyone who has received a bachelor's degree can continue their education at the following educational levels:

• Master (1-2 years of study).
• Postgraduate (3 years of study).

Colleges in the United Kingdom are of three types:

• Classical (they are accredited and can issue a bachelor's degree).
• Technical (have a narrowly focused training program and provide practical basic training in a specific working specialty).
• Further education (gives special professional education, for example, in the field of mechanical engineering, design).

There are two types of universities in the UK:

• Unitary (they include faculties and departments).
• Collegiate (several dozen colleges are united in them), for example, Cambridge and Oxford universities.

Higher education for all residents of the UK, including foreigners, is paid. However, citizens of the country have some privileges in payment, while foreign students must pay the full cost of study. There is support for students in the country in the form of scholarships and grants, which can be received by especially gifted students.
The start time of classes in higher educational institutions is the month of October. The academic year is divided into trimesters, which in turn last for 8-10 weeks. The main forms of work in colleges are lectures, seminars and laboratory works. In addition, there are also tutorials for groups of students of 2-10 people, for which the teacher (tutor) conducts his own classes. Holidays for students last from June 1 to September 30.

Features of higher education in the UK

Over 600 UK colleges (both public and private) offer young people vocational qualifications in a variety of fields. Prospective students can choose between studying at an institute, a university or a polytechnic college (here it is supposed to receive an academic or doctoral degree). Doctoral degrees are awarded to students for an invaluable and outstanding contribution to science or for special inventions, research for practical applications.
University students are offered a choice a large number of electives, they have access to scientific laboratories and modern libraries. And the educational program is so flexible that, as a result of successfully completed training, you can immediately get 2 degrees different directions.
In the United Kingdom, extramural studies are also encouraged in higher education institutions. In this case, the student learns on his own, focusing on specially designed educational packages. At the same time, he has the opportunity to communicate with teachers and consult with them by e-mail or online.
Education in the UK can be called elite, so many high-ranking parents from different countries of the world are trying to help their children enter British universities. Despite the high cost of education, students gain in-depth knowledge, master secular manners, and, most importantly, acquire valuable contacts in business and politics. UK university diplomas are the most prestigious in the world; every year up to 3.5 million students study here, of which more than 400 thousand are foreigners.
The success of the developed educational system in Great Britain is also evidenced by the fact that its principles were adopted in Canada and Australia.

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The systems of higher education in Russia and England (Great Britain) have their own similarities and differences. It is in our educational institutions that everyone is equal and can study regardless of anything. And there there is a huge selection of schools classified by gender (schools for boys, for girls, mixed), age of students, degree of preparedness, etc. And yet both of them are recognized worldwide as one of the best.

The modern education system in England: scheme, history, structure, features

If you want to learn more about the types of education in the UK, as well as compare the education systems of Russia and England, read on.

So, let's start from the very beginning - with history!

A bit of the history of higher education in the UK

Higher education in Great Britain began to develop actively in the XII century. It was then that the universities of Cambridge and Oxford were founded, which continued to be the only ones in England until the beginning of the 19th century. True, in the Scottish St. Andrews, Glasgow, Aberdeen and Edinburgh, starting from the 15th century, universities also began to be founded.

In the 19th century, the industrial revolution swept the kingdom. It was at this time that the people experienced an urgent need for the training of experienced managers and administrators. Demand creates supply, and now new universities have begun to appear everywhere: in London, Liverpool, Birmingham, Manchester, Bristol, Reading.

All these universities were built of red brick, so that people could immediately notice their difference from the gray stone walls of Oxford and Cambridge. That is why they began to be called red-brick.

After the Second World War, modern universities began to appear in Great Britain, which were supposed to satisfy scientific and technological progress. This is how the "glass" (due to their modernity) universities of Sussex, Nottingham, Exeter, Kiel, Warwick, Essex and Kent arose.

The third great wave of "universitization" came at the end of the 20th century. Then the authorities began to actively convert polytechnic schools into universities.

The differences between the universities of the old and new models are barely noticeable, but they still exist. For example, new institutions of higher education are focused on linking with trade and industrial enterprises, trying to adjust the programs in conjunction with the requests of employers.

However, the old universities are also trying to retrain and get on this right path. They are interested in building links with the national and local economies. But this does not mean that such traditional theoretical disciplines as literary criticism, literature, philosophy, history, natural sciences have disappeared here.

Foreign students are most often attracted by the old universities, which are widely known abroad

The UK education system in general

As in many European countries, the education system in England consists of five levels:

• preschool,
• initial,
• average,
• preparation for higher education
• higher education.

The first three stages for UK students under 16 are compulsory.

By type of functioning schools are divided into:

• privateschools- boarding houses(Independent Schools). They are considered more prestigious and 85% are intended exclusively for English children. These independent institutions are not only well equipped technically. They own several hundred hectares of land on which all school real estate is located: educational buildings, sports clubs, swimming pools, residences for residents.
• state(State Schools). Free for everyone. Designed mainly for citizens of the kingdom and for foreign children 8-18 years old, whose parents have the right to permanent residence.

All of them adhere to a single state minimum, but each school has the right to have its own "zest" that will attract different audiences.

We will not talk about the features of preschool and primary school education. We are interested in a more conscious age at which we can think or start building a career.

Secondary School or High School

The senior school caters for children aged 14 to 16. The main task of this instance is to prepare students for the state exam, after which they receive certificates of general secondary education called GCSE (General Certificate of Secondary Education).

In the training program, schoolchildren pass 7-9 subjects that are mandatory for passing the state exam.

From the age of 16, students are intensively preparing for entering a university. After completing the training, they can choose one of two options for the development of events:

• get a job (usually in the service sector);
• enter university.

If they choose the second path, they will have to go through training courses A levels is a two-year program during which examinations must be taken at the end of each year. During the first, 4-5 specialized subjects are offered for study, in the next - 3-4 more subjects. Moreover, the student chooses each subject based on how useful they will be for his future specialty.

If the program is successfully completed, the student can easily enter the chosen university.

And there is such an interesting thing as University Foundation Year (UFY) - the same, only for a shorter period of study (9 months). This program is suitable for the preparation of international students, provided that they are proficient high level English. Here, students are busy studying not only specialized disciplines, but also studying academic English in more detail.

Students who successfully complete this program can easily enter any higher educational institution. BUT! They cannot apply to study at those universities that are in the TOP-5 universities in the country (among them Oxford and Cambridge).

Studying in these universities is possible only after passing the A-Level student program

Higher education

Higher education is a program of study, after which the student is awarded a degree:

• Bachelor Degree - bachelor's degree,
• Master Degree - master's degree,
• Doctoral or PhD Degree - a doctorate degree.

Let's take a closer look at what each of them is.

Bachelor degree

This is the first stage of higher education, which is assigned to a student of a higher educational institution, subject to the successful completion of three courses. But there are universities, the term of study of which increases this bar to 4 years due to passing Sandwich courses - Mandatory work experience.

There are also particularly “difficult” industries, in which you will have to study for 7 years to obtain a bachelor's degree (dentistry, medicine, architecture, etc.).

There are 7 types of bachelor's degrees depending on the specialization:

• VA- Bachelor of Arts;
• BEd- Bachelor of Pedagogical Sciences;
• EEng- Bachelor of Technical Sciences (engineering and engineering);
• BSc- Bachelor of Natural Sciences;
• LLB- Bachelor of Law;
• BMus- Bachelor of Music;
• VM- Bachelor of Medicine.

Master degree

The second stage is distinguished by a wealth of specializations and directions and is considered postgraduate education.

Depending on the chosen program, you can take a course to improve your knowledge, take master's program scientific and technical orientation, etc.

Here you will have to unlearn after a bachelor's degree for another 1-2 years, attending lectures and practical classes. At the end, each student is obliged to provide, completed in accordance with all the rules, as well as to pass the GOS. Only in case of successful completion of these tests, the student is awarded a diploma and a master's degree.

In the case of studying under a research program, students work on a diploma throughout their studies. And at the end they are awarded the degree of Master of Philosophy (M.Phil - Master of Philosophy).

PhD degree

The doctoral program will be entirely devoted to research work.

Its duration is 2-3 years. At the end, the student needs to publish the results of his work in specialized publications. Besides, he'll have to.

If you managed to successfully cope with all these tasks - congratulations! You have become the proud owner of a Doctor of Philosophy degree (Ph.D. Degree).

Tuition fees in the UK (higher education)

Higher education in the UK is paid for everyone: both for their own and for foreigners. But for visiting students it will be more expensive!

British citizens have a unique right to receive higher education on credit. You can give it not immediately, but after receiving a diploma and a successful job. Even a minimum wage of £21,000 a year will help cover the debt.

You will laugh, but the whole comic of the situation is this: if you did not receive a diploma or did not get a job with a minimum wage, you do not have to repay the debt!

And here are approximate prices so that you can realistically assess your financial capabilities and the capabilities of your parents. So, one academic course after receiving a regular secondary education will cost for foreigners:

• classroom lesson - 5000-7000 pounds;
• laboratory classes (in natural sciences) - 6000-9000 pounds;
• practical exercises - 15000-17000 pounds.

Before applying, try to find out if the university of your choice requires you to pay extra for the use of classrooms and laboratories. Some universities have a surcharge for the use of work materials (for example, photographic materials in a design course).

When planning, do not forget about additional costs:

• use of books and textbooks (300-500 pounds annually),
• new clothes (500 pounds);
• accommodation (depending on the location from 6000 to 9000 pounds per year).

Choosing a UK College/University

Now, in fact, let's talk about the university itself, which is worth stopping at.

Looking through the entire list of higher education institutions in the Kingdom, you may find that many of them offer the same course of study. The catch is that the depth of study of the subject can be different in different universities. For example, in some the course is taught in a shortened version, in the other - in more depth.

The most important thing when entering an English university is to decide on the specialty that you like. The main “problem” of the UK education system is that a huge layer of responsibility for education falls on the shoulders of the student himself, and not on the teachers and the university as a whole, as in our country.

Studying here, you will have to get used to the idea that the lion's share of study and research will be carried out independently. Here, no one will force or intimidate you. If you want success, work hard! Therefore, one cannot live here without great enthusiasm.

By the way! For our readers there is now a 10% discount on

If you choose a specialty for reasons of prestige or for other reasons, you will fail 90% of the time.

When choosing a university, it is important to pay attention not only to the program itself, but also to the living conditions that the university offers. Here are the main questions that it is important to know the answer to before entering an English college / university:

1. Does the university have its own housing? Does the university provide accommodation for international students? Do foreigners get a place guaranteed or on a common basis with citizens?
2. Does the institution have its own library? Lack of or poorly equipped library will force you to spend a lot of time and money additionally, because you will have to contact the inter-university library service. Old universities, as a rule, have collected an impressive database of books during their existence. The new ones will have more modern applied funds.
3. Are there sports facilities? Can students use those that are nearby?
4. Is there a special career guidance course for beginners?? Do I need to pay for it and how much?
5. Are there all facilities for disabled students?

The quality of education in the UK

Every year, numerous services and publications conduct their own research, as a result of which you can find out the rating of both a particular educational institution of interest and the education system of a particular country.

The UK traditionally occupies the highest places in these university rankings (1, 2 or 3 positions), so you can safely choose this place to get your higher education.

The only thing left is to find time and money to enter. Well, a lot of knowledge! You will have to study very well at your school and write all the tests perfectly. If you do not want to waste your potential on local education, you always have at hand, which will easily cope with any task.

Education system in Great Britain

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

But back to the students. Before the start of training, namely from the age of 2, children attend Nursery or Pre-preparatory School(similar to our kindergartens). It can be either an independent educational institution or part of an elementary school. It is worth noting that precisely because Kindergarten may be part of a school, and a legend has arisen that children in the UK go to school from the age of 2.

With difficulty understanding education systems in the UK we face from the start. Despite the fact that the compulsory starting age of education is 5 years old, children have the opportunity at 4 years old to enter a preparatory class called the Reception Year. Parents can use this opportunity at their 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 no longer from the Reception Year, but from the first grade (Year 1). In other words, such a child does not lag behind and is not ahead of peers. With us, if parents think 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 later.

In the preparatory class, children are prepared in a playful and entertaining way for the beginning of schooling. against the total curriculum this year is not coming. But not everything is so simple. In fairness, it should be said that there are "difficulties" in the English system. Not all children have the opportunity to get to the Reception Year. In England, there is such a thing as "summer children", that is, children born in the period from April 1 to August 31. They are considered "less ready" in relation to their peers born at the beginning of the year. That is why they are recommended to start training at the age of 5. By law, the parents of such children have the opportunity to apply for admission to the kindergarten class, but the last word remains with the school management, which in most cases refuses to do so, motivating such a decision by not wanting to have a “knowingly lagging behind” child in the class. On this basis, scandals often arise. Every now and then there are articles in the newspapers about how some parents file a complaint against the school authorities for refusing to accept their "summer child" in the kindergarten 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 perhaps he will distract 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 "fortunate" to be born a few weeks, or even days earlier, will already start their studies, and next year, when their child goes to school, he will really lag behind those who By this time, the preparatory year will have already ended.

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

School education in England is inextricably linked with the biological age of the child. Upon admission to school, or when changing educational institutions, the grade in which a child is admitted is determined by his age on September 1 of the year in which he begins his education. 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 school change, a class lower. The law exists, but far from being applied in all schools, no matter how certain "unfortunate agents" convince you of this. Yes, indeed, the more prestigious and older the school, the more reverently they follow this rule. In my practice, there was a child born on September 2, who was refused to be accepted into one of the schools from our list for this very reason, despite all the parents' attempts to "negotiate". At the same time, there are many schools, sometimes no worse, that are more flexible in their approach to this issue. Here we should return to the previously mentioned feature of "our" education, to the possibility of sending 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 a decision on enrolling in a particular class based on the biological age of the child. 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 in terms of the number of school years, such a child is actually "left for the 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 to school and well. I had a chance 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, bewildered, realizing that his child was being left for the second year. Fortunately, the situation was resolved, and everyone was satisfied. By this I try to warn other parents who find themselves in a similar situation. Yes, indeed, most schools will not make exceptions for you and will insist on enrollment based on the biological age of the child. But there are schools that agree to "get into position" and accept such a child in a higher class. Here everyone must decide for himself 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 unlearn a year one grade lower, improve their language, join the team and continue learning with their peers. My task is to convey to you that such an opportunity exists, no matter how your agent beats his chest.

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

Compulsory schooling consists of two levels: primary or preparatory ( Preparatory Education) and secondary (Secondary Education ) education. Accordingly, Preparatory (abbreviated as Prep School) and Senior School. Elementary 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, the Key Stage (Key Stage) one and two ( Key Stage 1 ) (Key Stage 2 ). Children enrolled in a parallel American program graduate from Elementary School, while those enrolled in IB , complete the course IBPYP . Test results are entered into a single national database of student performance.

Exams are taken in compulsory disciplines: English (English), Mathematics (Mathematics) and Natural Sciences (Science), a block of chemistry, physics and biology. Other subjects such as History (History), Geography (Geography), Technology (Technology), Music (Music), Arts (Art) and Physical Education (Physical Education or abbreviated PE) are also included in the program, but exams for them on these stages are not given up.

There is also the concept of "Primary Education", what does it mean? There are two sectors of education in the UK, public (state-funded) and private (independent or private). So "Primary Education" means the same initial stage of education in public education as "Preparatory Education" in private. 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 confuse foreigners. You can read more about this issue in our separate article (Public school).

After graduating from Primary School, at the age of 13, students move on to Senior School. In the public sector, this school is sometimes called the Secondary School. Here the confusion arises precisely because of the inaccurate translation. Literally Secondary means "Second". In the Russian translation, it is called the Middle. Therefore, it turns out that the middle and second schools are one and the same. During the training, 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. By parallel programs it is called IGCSE, IBMYP or High School Diploma. This stage is the final one in the school curriculum; children finish 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. It can be 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, according to 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 relevant 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 a choice of two paths. 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 in a one-year Foundation Program (Foundation UK), created specifically for foreign students who want to study in one of the British universities.

The greatest advantage of the British education system is its consistency, interaction and interchangeability of different directions. Regardless of which path the student continues after the age of 16, he will still be able to get a higher education. Let me explain what I mean. At the age of 16, young people have a wide range of opportunities. Despite the fact that they are required to continue their studies for another 2 years, they can either continue to move along the academic path (A-level or alternative programs), combine theoretical knowledge with practical skills (BTEC) or get a working specialty (NVQ or Apprenticeship ). What is meant by the fact that all roads lead to higher education. The education system is built in such a way that for each of the areas there is a clear algorithm of what needs to be done if the student changes his mind and decides to get a higher education. Let's leave the obvious, academic path for now, and consider others, such as BTEC and NVQ. In order not to go into details, BTEC and NVQ are analogues of the diplomas of "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 guys who got bored or did not like to study, who ended up in vocational schools, in the vast majority "shine" the road to "working days", since it is unlikely that they will be able to enter a university with such a diploma. In the UK, the opposite is true. The system is designed so that a young person who has had time to try the "working life" during his studies, having received the NVQ certificate, can enter the university on its basis. Yes, you may have to start with a special preparatory course and choose from not the best universities, but it's better than nothing. Moreover, those who retained the desire to start as soon as possible labor activity during further education, worked for several years and only then realized that it is better to get a higher education, they have the opportunity to find their old NVQ diploma and enter a university a few years later. Many people 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 the chances of success. Each faculty has its own requirements for applicants. A mandatory need is a list of major subjects and academic 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 (Bachelor Degree). Further education is called Postgraduate Study, the first stage of which is a master's degree. At this stage, a lot of foreigners come to the UK. The best path for them would be the Preparatory Master's program ( ).

For a better understanding, I suggest you look at the diagram options training attached to this article.

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

Our advice! The education of the child should be planned in advance, starting from the "reverse". That is, first decide in which country and at which university you "see" your child. Then determine the list of Sixth Form schools / colleges from which 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 help with the definition of a future profession. Next, you need to find secondary schools that prepare for admission to a specific Sixth Form or Further Education. Complete the plan with a selection primary schools and we will help you with this!