School system
There are two types of schools in the UK – state and independent. The main difference between them has to do with funding. State schools are funded by the government, while independent schools are funded by parents fees.
State primary schools serve children aged 5-11, while secondary schools teach children aged 11-16. Older children attend Sixth Form Centres.
Independent preparatory schools teach 5-13 year olds, while independent secondary schools often cater to children up to the age of 18. To make matters more confusing, independent secondary schools are often called public schools!
At age 16, children sit their GCSE (General Certificate of Secondary Education) exams. Afterwards, successful pupils can take two –year courses at either a college or a sixth form centre to get A-Level qualifications. Independent school children tend to stay on and do their A-Levels in their own school Sixth Form. Most students take three of these higher qualifications, which are generally required for acceptance at a university.
Another option is an international school, which is particularly a good idea if you plan to move back to your home country. These schools are especially equipped for children of expatriates, and often offer a variety of qualifications, including the American SATs.
No matter what school you choose, it is a good idea to check its performance tables. This will tell you how other children are performing on standardized tests, how many students reach the government's literacy rate, and more.
Colleges and universities
There are more than 3,000 educational institutions that welcome international students in the UK. You can choose from a variety of routes through the education and training system, combining different types of course according to your needs and abilities. UK qualifications are recognised and respected throughout the world. Your UK qualification will be a solid foundation for building your future, boosting your career and prospects for a higher salary. UK universities, colleges and schools will provide a vibrant, creative and challenging environment in which to develop your potential.
Quality standards for UK institutions are among the best in the world. Universities, colleges and schools continually have to prove that their courses meet strict criteria. Many other countries are now trying to follow the example of the UK.
The international alumni from UK institutions includes many leading politicians, thinkers and business people who have had an important influence on the world such as Bill Clinton (former President of the USA), Thabo Mbeki (President of South Africa), Desmond Tutu (Archbishop and human rights campaigner), Rifat Ozbek (fashion designer), Wole Soyinka (Nobel prize-winning author), Stelios Haji-Iaonnu (founder of the easyGroup of businesses) and Imran Khan (cricket legend and politician).
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