The UK school system can often seem complicated, but in reality it offers some of the most flexible and diverse study opportunities in the world, particularly for international students. From iGCSEs, GCSEs, IB, and A-levels, to BTEC, foundation and diploma programmes - the range of qualifications to choose from is vast. The types of institution available also range widely, so it’s important to choose the correct place to study that suits you as a student.
Morgan Oxford Education can help you to make this choice. Our specially trained staff are experts in the UK education system and can answer all of your queries about which pathway is the best one for you. From our UK office based in Oxford and with the help of team members based overseas, we’ll provide you with all of the information to help you make the right decision for your next steps.
What study options are on offer in the UK?
Boarding Schools
With state of the art facilities and highly-qualified teaching staff, UK boarding schools are among the most well-respected and prestigious in the world. Students completing their qualifications at these institutions often go on to study at top-ranked universities and have successful careers all over the world. The UK boarding school experience offers more than just outstanding academic success. Alongside top standards of teaching, facilities, and pastoral care, these institutions are unique in their own right, with their own approach to student development. Many boarding schools combine modern classrooms with the historic architecture of heritage buildings, often set in acres of woodland. Students can benefit from their environment as they learn, and develop the foundational skills necessary for university study.
We currently work with the majority of UK boarding schools and are able to guide and advise you through the entry process for all of them. Contact Morgan Oxford Education today for more information.
Among other things, boarding schools offer their students:
Integration
UK boarding schools welcome students from all nationalities and backgrounds, creatings a diverse cultural environment in which domestic and international friendships can grow.
Development
The range of extracurricular activities offered to students is extensive, with everything from sports to cultural pastimes like photography and debating.
Support
Boarding schools in the UK offer bespoke support to their students, not just during the course of their studies but in preparation for university as well. These institutions support their students to secure a place to study their first-choice degree.
Accommodation
Boarding school students are required to remain resident on campus through the majority of their studies, which significantly develops skills in independent living, self-organisation, self-discipline, and managing the work/life balance. These life skills provide the ideal foundation for study at university.
Results
UK boarding schools offer a unique combination of dedicated, specialist teachers and highly-trained support staff, who are often on hand 24 hours a day to assist students. Such support ensures that boarding school students maximise their academic potential, whilst also developing their self-expression and creativity.
Choice
The selection of UK boarding schools available means that students can choose the right institution to match their academic and personal requirements. Some boarding schools are selective whilst others are not. Some are faith driven whilst others are non-denominational. Some institutions specialise in sports, arts, or music development. Others have varying numbers of boarders and day pupils.
Sixth Form Colleges
Sixth form colleges prepare their students for university study by taking an academic approach to learning and offering a smaller variety of extracurricular activities to supplement studies. The environment is often relaxed as students are treated as adults. Timetables may include the option to study independently in the location of a student’s choice, and there may often be no dress code to adhere to. This environment is fantastic for independent students who like to lead their own development. Sixth form colleges provide students with enough structure and teaching support to ensure fantastic results, whilst allowing them the freedom to expand on their academic interests. The level of self-discipline and organisation required from students attending sixth form is incredibly high and well-respected by university institutions.
Pathway Colleges / International Year 1
Pathway colleges and international year 1 study options provide the academic foundation for students to progress directly into university study. Both scenarios involve spending 1 year completing pre-university courses before being able to commence degree study at university the following year. These courses can be completed in school, college, or university settings depending on the pathway course. Pathway colleges and international year 1 study options can be a more financially affordable option for securing a place at university in the UK, and Morgan Oxford Education staff are specialists in finding the best courses to suit student requirements. To find out more about Pathway college and international year 1 options, please contact us today.
Colleges of Further Education
Further education institutions offer a pathway to university study for students who do not suit the above study options, for whatever reason. They offer a cost-effective means of completing qualifications, and often suit a more mature student. To find out more about colleges of further education, please contact the Morgan Oxford Education team. We can help you to find the best study options to secure your future.