The British education system is world renowned as one of the best. It highlights uniqueness and individuality, and promotes the spiritual, moral, cultural, mental and physical development of students. Through the National Curriculum and exciting, stimulating lessons students develop in all areas, not just in terms of academic ability. It is this that sets the British education system apart from many others, but what other specific benefits are there?

A Head Start

Schooling for the majority of students in Britain begins at the age of 4, which is much earlier than many other systems of education around the world. This means that British-educated students have a head start in developing key skills and gaining knowledge. At this age, children are “sponges” soaking up as much information as possible and through interactions with their peers have much better developed speech, motor and interpersonal skills.

The National Curriculum

All students in Britain study a highly-structured set programme (National Curriculum) which is a framework, developed to ensure all students have the essential knowledge they need to be educated citizens. The core subjects (English, maths and science) are taught at each of the Key Stages (1-4) with a number of foundation subjects (from art and design to languages and humanities subjects) taught as compulsory subjects at different levels. Personal, Social, Health and Economic (PSHE) education helps in forming the whole person by developing skills and providing knowledge important for health and in preparation for work and life beyond school. The National Curriculum forms a strict, fundamental basis which schools are free to supplement. There are periodic assessments to ascertain whether students are on the right track or whether they require further support.

Internationally Recognised Qualifications

Later in a British student’s schooling life (at the age of 16), they will take GCSEs or IGCSE exams. All areas of a student’s studies are tested, with English, maths and science compulsory for all. All other subjects that a student is studying at this time are also tested and form a basis for further studies (A-level or International Baccalaureate). The majority of independent schools in Britain now offer IGCSEs, i.e., an international variant of the secondary-school leaving exam. These are deemed to be more rigorous, but better prepare students for further education as they have no coursework components. IGCSEs are accepted for entrance at institutions for 16+ education around the world and are some of the most popular international exams.

A Universal Language

It may be an obvious benefit, but the fact that lessons are taught in English in Britain is extremely important to those hoping to perfect their English skills. English is a global language with more than 1.5 billion speakers as a first or second language. It is a language that opens doors in many different spheres, e.g., English, computer technology, diplomacy, tourism etc. Being in Britain and part of the British education system, students are able to hone their English skills and approach native-level English.

A World Outlook

The United Kingdom is a multicultural country with nationalities from all over the world constituting its population. This is very true for teaching staff and students at boarding schools and universities. Studying alongside students of other nationalities and backgrounds allows students to learn more about the world and recognise that others have different views and perspectives, helping students to think outside of the box and hone their problem-solving skills.

Newton Bright Education Consultants