VICTIMS OF BULLYING IN BRITISH AND INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS

Posted on March 16, 2023April 13, 2023 by Alex

VICTIMS OF BULLYING IN BRITISH AND INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS

Bullying is a growing concern around the world, and the UK and international education systems are no exception. Students who have experienced bullying can experience a range of mental health and emotional wellbeing issues, which can negatively affect their ability to learn and thrive academically. However, the UK education system, along with more international schools, has taken steps to address bullying and support students who have been victims of bullying.

Firstly, British and international schools have implemented zero tolerance policies towards bullying. Schools have a responsibility to ensure that students feel safe and protected, and that any form of bullying is dealt with seriously and swiftly. This includes taking appropriate disciplinary action against bullies, as well as providing support and counselling for victims.

Schools have also implemented training and bullying prevention programmes for all students. These programmes are designed to educate students about the negative impact of bullying and to foster a culture of respect, inclusion and empathy. Programmes may also include training for teachers and school staff on how to detect and address bullying.

In addition, international centres and UK centres also offer emotional and psychological support to students who have been victims of bullying. School counselling services are available in many centres, and students may also be referred to external mental health services for additional support. Teachers and school staff can also provide emotional support and counselling to students who have been bullied.

Finally, these schools also provide opportunities for students to get involved in campaigns and groups that promote inclusion and diversity. These groups can help students who have experienced bullying to feel included and supported, and to create a more positive and respectful school culture.

In summary, the British education system, along with most international schools, take bullying very seriously and have implemented a variety of measures to address this problem and support students who have been victims of bullying. From zero tolerance policies and prevention programmes to emotional support and inclusion groups, schools are working to create safe and positive school environments for all students.

THE BRITISH EDUCATION SYSTEM: OPTIMAL FOR HIGHLY ABLE PUPILS

Posted on March 16, 2023March 16, 2023 by Alex

THE BRITISH EDUCATION SYSTEM: OPTIMAL FOR PUPILS WITH HIGH CAPABILITIES

The UK education system is designed to support students with a variety of special educational needs, including those with high abilities. While in the past, these students were often overlooked and did not receive the necessary attention and support, today, the UK education system strives to accommodate and meet the needs of these exceptional students so that they have access to the world’s best universities and can make the most of their intellectual potential.

One of the ways in which the British education system accommodates highly able students is through specialised and individualised education programmes (Individualised Education Plan, IEP). For example, there are specialised schools, such as LMI College, which focus on educating gifted and talented students. These schools offer a rigorous and personalised educational approach that is designed to meet the individual needs of each student, especially those with above-average intellectual ability.

Another way in which the British education system accommodates highly able students is through enrichment programmes. These programmes are designed to provide highly able students with opportunities to develop and challenge their abilities. Enrichment programmes may include extra-curricular activities, advanced courses, research projects and one-to-one tutoring.

In addition, schools and colleges with a British curriculum offer a wide range of educational options, allowing highly able students to choose from a variety of advanced courses once they reach the end of their secondary education and diverse study options tailored to their needs and preferences. Highly able students can take advanced courses in areas such as mathematics, science, languages and the arts, among others.

Overall, the UK education system has adopted an increasingly personalised approach to meeting the needs of talented and highly able students. Through a combination of individualised education programmes, enrichment opportunities and a broad educational offer, highly able students have access to an educational environment that is designed to challenge and develop their exceptional abilities to make the most of their intellectual potential, and ultimately gain access to the world’s most prestigious universities upon completion of their secondary education.

Academic excellence within the UK education system

Posted on March 13, 2023March 13, 2023 by Alex

SECONDARY EDUCATION IN THE BRITISH EDUCATION SYSTEM

The British education system is one of the most recognised and respected in the world. Academic excellence is one of the cornerstones of this system and is encouraged from the earliest years of primary education. High ability students are an important part of this system and are given special support to enable them to achieve their full potential.

In the UK, academic excellence is measured by national standard examinations, known as GCSEs (General Certificate of Secondary Education) and A-levels (Advanced Level). These examinations are rigorous and are used to determine the academic level of students and their suitability for higher education. High ability students are those who perform exceptionally well academically compared to their peers. These students often excel in one or more specific areas, such as science, mathematics, literature or the arts. The UK education system offers a range of options to support and encourage the development of these students.

One of the ways in which the British education system supports highly able students is through the Talent programme. This programme is designed to identify students with outstanding abilities and provide them with special opportunities to develop their talents. Students selected for this programme receive a personalised curriculum and can attend special classes or participate in enrichment programmes outside school hours.

Another way in which the British education system supports highly able students is through the provision of accelerated education programmes. These programmes allow students to make rapid progress in their education and complete their studies in a shorter time than their peers. This allows them to advance faster in their academic career and to have access to advanced higher education opportunities.

In addition, highly able students can also participate in academic competitions at national and international level. These competitions allow them to test their abilities and compete with other talented students from all over the world. They also provide them with the opportunity to gain recognition and awards for their academic achievements.

In conclusion, the British education system is a global benchmark for academic excellence. High ability students are an important part of this system and are given special support to enable them to achieve their full potential. Through enrichment programmes, accelerated education and academic competitions, these students can reach exceptional levels of academic achievement and open doors to future educational and career opportunities.

Secondary Education in the British Education System

Posted on March 9, 2023March 13, 2023 by Alex

SECONDARY EDUCATION IN THE BRITISH EDUCATION SYSTEM

Secondary education in the British education system is one of the most important stages in students’ lives and is a crucial time in their academic and personal development. During this period, each student has the opportunity to deepen their knowledge and skills in a variety of subjects, as well as to explore personal interests and prepare for future academic and career opportunities. This stage is divided into two parts: lower secondary education (Key Stage 3) and upper secondary education (Key Stage 4). In this blog, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about secondary education in the UK education system.

Lower Secondary Education (Key Stage 3)

Lower secondary education begins when students are around 11 years old and lasts until they are around 14 years old. During this stage, students study a variety of subjects, including mathematics, English, science, history, geography, technology, physical education, art and music. Students may also study foreign languages such as French, German and Spanish.

The aim of lower secondary education is to provide students with a solid foundation in basic learning skills and knowledge of different subjects. Students are also encouraged to develop critical thinking skills, social skills and teamwork skills. In general, lower secondary education is an important transitional stage for students as they begin to prepare for upper secondary education.

Lower Secondary Education (Key Stage 3)

Upper secondary education begins when students are around 14 years old and lasts until they are around 16 years old. During this stage, students study for their secondary school qualifications, such as the General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE). Students can choose to study a variety of subjects, including mathematics, English, science, history, geography, technology, physical education, art, music and foreign languages.

Upper secondary education begins when students are around 14 years old and lasts until they are around 16 years old. During this stage, students study for their secondary education qualifications, such as the General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE). Students can choose to study a variety of subjects, including mathematics, English, science, history, geography, technology, physical education, art, music and foreign languages.

Overall, secondary education in the UK education system focuses on providing students with a high quality education that enables them to develop key skills, knowledge and practical skills. Students are encouraged to be actively involved in their own learning, to develop team working skills and to be critical in their thinking and worldview. At the end of secondary education, students should be prepared for further education or to enter the world of work.

TEACHING METHODOLOGY IN THE BRITISH SYSTEM AND THE SPANISH EDUCATION SYSTEM

Posted on March 9, 2023March 9, 2023 by Alex

TEACHING METHODOLOGY IN THE BRITISH SYSTEM AND THE SPANISH EDUCATION SYSTEM

Teaching methodology in British education and Spanish education differs in many ways. Both systems have strengths and weaknesses, and it is important to be aware of these differences in order to better understand how teaching is done in each country.

Approach to teaching

In British education, there is a focus on active, hands-on learning. Students are encouraged to participate in the classroom, to ask questions and to discuss in groups. Teaching focuses on the development of practical skills, creativity and critical thinking. Teachers are often facilitators of learning and guides for the student. In Spanish education, teaching focuses on the transmission of knowledge. Teachers guide the teaching and students focus on memorising and repeating information. There is often a focus on exams and academic results.

Assessment

In the UK system, assessment is through regular examinations and continuous assessment of students’ work and projects. Students are also assessed on their ability to work in teams and solve problems. There is a focus on constructive feedback and skills development.

In the Spanish system, assessment focuses mainly on examinations. Students have to demonstrate their knowledge and ability to reproduce the information learned in the classroom. There is often less emphasis on constructive feedback and skills development.

Inclusion

British education focuses on inclusion and equal opportunities. Students with special needs are accommodated in mainstream classrooms wherever possible, and additional support is provided where necessary. Students are also encouraged to respect cultural and gender differences.

In Spanish education, students with special needs are often accommodated in special classrooms or in separate schools. There is often less emphasis on inclusion and equal opportunities.

Curriculum

In British education, the curriculum is broad and diverse. Students have the opportunity to study a wide variety of subjects, including art, music, technology and physical education. There is also greater flexibility in subject choice in post-compulsory education. In Spanish education, the curriculum is more structured and focused on academic subjects. Students have fewer opportunities to study optional subjects and there is greater pressure to achieve academic results. In conclusion, there are significant differences between the teaching methodology in British and Spanish education. Both systems have strengths and weaknesses, and it is important to recognise these differences in order to better understand how teaching is done in each country.

Complete guide to schooling your children in Spain from abroad

Posted on March 6, 2023March 6, 2023 by Alex

Complete guide to schooling your children in Spain from abroad

Getting your children into school in a new country can be a daunting process, especially if you are moving internationally. If you are planning to move to Spain from abroad and need to send your children to school, it is important to know the main procedures and documents needed to do it correctly.

Firstly, it is important to bear in mind that the education system in Spain is decentralised, so the procedures and documents required may vary slightly depending on the Autonomous Community where the school you choose is located. However, there are some general requirements that apply nationally and that you will need to meet in order to school your children in Spain.

Necessary documentation:

Certificate of census registration: This is a document that certifies that you reside in Spain and which you must apply for at the corresponding town hall.
Foreigner’s Identification Card (TIE): If you are a non-European citizen, you must obtain a TIE from the Foreigners’ Office.
Passport or identity card: This document is necessary to prove the student’s identity and age.
Academic transcript: It is important that you have a copy of the student’s academic transcript, which must be translated and legalised.
Medical certificate: It is necessary to have a medical certificate that certifies that the student is in good health.
Vaccination record: You will need to present the student’s up-to-date vaccination record.

You may also be asked for additional documents depending on the autonomous community where the school of your choice is located.

LMI College grants:

LMI College is a British school located in La Moraleja, Madrid, which offers a bilingual education (Spanish and English) from the age of 2 to 18. The school has an admissions department that can help you through the whole schooling process, including obtaining the necessary documents.

In addition, LMI College offers a range of grants and scholarships to facilitate students’ schooling, including:

Academic Excellence Scholarships: These scholarships are intended for students who demonstrate excellent academic performance and can cover up to 50% of tuition fees.
Grants for large families: LMI College offers tuition discounts for large families.
Grants for students with special educational needs: The college has a team of professionals specialised in the care of students with special educational needs and can offer specific grants for these cases.

In summary, if you are planning to move to Spain from abroad and you need to send your children to school, it is important that you know the procedures and documents necessary to do so correctly. In addition, you can count on the help of schools such as LMI College, which offer grants and scholarships to facilitate the schooling of students.

The History of the British Education System

Posted on January 30, 2023February 6, 2023 by Alex

The History of the British Education System

The British education system is one of the most respected and prestigious in the world, with a long history and tradition that has been a model for many other countries. Over the centuries, education in the UK has evolved and improved, and in this article we will explore the beginnings and how it has developed into what it is today.

The origins of education in the UK can be traced back to medieval times, when the Catholic Church founded monastic schools to train its priests and the sons of the nobility. However, education at that time was very limited and available only to a small number of people.

In the 17th century, the Anglican Church began to establish schools to provide a basic education for poor children and prepare them to enter the church. These schools were known as “Charity Schools” and provided education in subjects such as reading, writing and mathematics.

The 18th century marked an important change in education, as the state began to pay more attention to and fund education. During this century, new forms of education emerged, such as the Dame Schools, which were run by women and provided education for girls and boys from poor families.

In 1870, the First Education Act was created, which established primary education as a right and an obligation for all children in the United Kingdom. This Act also established a system of examinations to measure student progress and school performance.

During the 19th and 20th centuries, education in the UK continued to evolve and expand. In 1902, a system of free public schools was created and in 1944, the Second Education Act was published, which established a unified, national education system.

The 1960s saw a major expansion of the British education system with the creation of new universities and the growing demand for higher education. During this period, major reforms were made to the structure and content of the education system, including the introduction of science and modern technology education.

The British education system remains one of the most prestigious in the world and is highly respected around the world. Here are some current facts about its global presence:

• International education: There are over 600 international schools around the world that follow the British education system and offer a high quality education to children from international families.

• Level of recognition: The British education qualification is widely recognised and valued by universities and employers around the world.

• Exchange programmes: Many students from around the world come to study in the UK and many UK students travel abroad to complete part of their education.

• Global coverage: The UK education system is present in over 160 countries around the world and provides students with the opportunity to gain a high quality education and develop valuable skills and knowledge for the future.

In short, the British education system is widely respected and recognised around the world and remains one of the top choices for those seeking a high quality education and a successful future.

A-level and the IB Educational system: What is the best system for your children?

Posted on February 2, 2022February 4, 2022 by Alex

A-level and the IB Educational system:
What is the best system for your children?

For decades, many have been torn between A-Levels and IB Diplomas when it comes to offering the best preparation for success at university. Each qualification has a long history, strong advocates, and political influence, making selecting one difficult for parents and students.

However, today we’re going to unravel all the misconceptions and discover which is best based on a variety of different factors. But, before we get into that, let’s discuss how each of the education systems works.

How do A-Levels work?

Advanced Levels (A-Levels) is the UK’s national “end-of-school” qualification most students take after their GCSEs. Students can freely choose three to four subjects ranging from biology to business studies when participating in this education system.

A-levels take two years, which are split into AS-Levels and A2-Levels. AS-Levels are during the first year, and they allow students to prepare for their officially-graded work in the second year (AS-Level). At the end of this year, they’ll be given the option to drop subjects they don’t see a future in. The second-year (A2-level) is the most important. Here, they’ll be working towards their official A-Level qualification.

How does International Baccalaureate (IB) work?

An International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma is for the same age group. The only primary difference is how it’s structured. With an IB, they offer a broad curriculum that’s made up of six subject groups: arts, mathematics, sciences, individuals and societies, language acquisition, language and literature.

Students lack freedom within an IB education because they must fulfil the six subjects mentioned above. The system itself is structured this way to target community, action, and service (CAS). By having a broader range of expertise, students feel more academic.

To pass an IB, you’ll be scored on points. A minimum score of 24 (260 UCAS points) is required for a pass, consisting of the essays themselves and activities such as music, sports, or fundraising.

Which Education system is better for your children?

Now you have a broader understanding of how A-Levels and IB qualifications work, let’s break them down into three significant factors: university acceptance, expertise, and flexibility. These are undoubtedly the most vital elements that need consideration when selecting either option. Here’s what you need to know:

1. University Acceptance

A student’s likelihood of attending university after either education system is remarkably high. Therefore, the most important factor is University acceptance. But, which offers the highest recognition within this field?

Each qualification is recognised globally as higher education. Both are the main reason why students attend specific universities. However, there are many misconceptions based around UK universities and A-Levels. Many worldwide believe that the UK favourites their A-Level qualification, but this isn’t true. Both are looked at the same if they’ve studied the correct subjects.

2. Expertise

Additionally, expertise is another vital element to consider when selecting either A-Levels or IB. Each will offer a higher-level education that’ll provide enough information for the university. However, because each education system is structured, there are undoubtedly advantages and disadvantages when it comes to this sector.

When selecting A-Levels, students can freely choose their subjects which are then later developed in university. By having the freedom of studying whatever they like, the expertise is much more in-depth and allows them to be specialised within a specific area.

An IB diploma is slightly different. We mentioned above that’s it’s mandatory to choose between six other topics. Because of this, they become less specialised in their future self. But this isn’t necessarily a complete negative. Enrolling in this education allows participants to have a broader, more global outlook with inquiry-based situations.

3. Flexibility

The essential part of further education is enjoyment and flexibility. Your son, daughter, and other students must enjoy their extended years of education to maximise success. Although many adore flexibility, some individuals don’t. Therefore, either education will be suitable, but it highly depends on the individual.

An A-Level education will allow students to select the subjects they desire to develop knowledge within. However, because the IB system mandates the six subjects mentioned above, it restricts flexibility tremendously.

Although the A-Level education system is more flexible, it doesn’t mean it’s more beneficial. Typically, students select subjects which they already excel within. But, because the IB system forces pupils to educate themselves on six chosen subjects, it can improve weaknesses in education.

After reading the above, you should understand that both education systems are considered higher education. Because of this, either is superb to obtain. However, it does depend on the individuals learning styles and what they want to achieve in the future.

Overview

The above details the main three areas of concern for both parents and students. However, there’s various more, depending on the reader. As a result of this, we’ve broken down a quick-to-read advantages and disadvantages tables, which will allow you to have a broader perspective of each system.

Advantages of A-Level and IB

A-Level

Students are allowed to study any subject they like in the curriculum, allowing for optimal flexibility.

Pupils studying A-Levels have the option to choose between three of five subjects, allowing them to decide how much they’d like to study.

IB

With an IB education system, it’s mandated to study six subjects. Undoubtedly, this broadens knowledge in various essential areas.

Because students are forced to learn about more subjects, knowledge increases considerably and supports weak areas.

Disadvantages of A-Level and IB

A-Level

Because of the in-depth studying required by A-Levels, students usually only select three. Doing this lowers to overall knowledge acquired by the pupil.

If the student has selected topics they thought they liked but don’t, they can be unmotivated.

IB

Flexibility doesn’t exist with the IB curriculum, as students are mandated to study subjects they might not even enjoy or want to excel within.

To achieve an IB qualification, it’s considered to be the much harder option between the two.

CONCLUSION

After reading the above, you should have a more comprehensive idea about which education system might be a more favourable option for yourself or your child. Undoubtedly, both are considered higher education, and it depends on the individuals goals.

A-levels and Brexit: The future of British education

Posted on February 1, 2022February 4, 2022 by Alex

A-levels and Brexit:
The future of British education

Undeniably, the topic of Brexit has been dominating politics since the referendum announcement in 2016. Because of the many drawbacks of making deals and global pandemics, the official leaving date for the UK was pushed back till January 2020.

Many modifications were made throughout these years that made the leaving process more seamless and less destructive. However, that has led to an abundance of unanswered questions in various topics such as A-Levels.

The concerns based around A-Levels for international students are immense. As there’s such a variety, we’ll be addressing the main matters and how these will affect the future of British education.

Will A-Levels Be Affected by Brexit?

International A-Levels students are an integral part of the United Kingdom’s economy. Apart from revenue benefits, they enrich campuses, allow cultural diversity, and help build overseas relationships. However, has this changed after Brexit, and does the education system look different?

ACCESIBILITY

Undoubtedly, the most considerable concern that many are worried about is accessibility. The primary reason for Brexit was for the UK to gain more control over their border. With this power, they can control immigration easier from their regulations.

However, this doesn’t mean they’re eliminating international students from entering the country and achieving A-Levels. But what it’s indicating is that it’s somewhat harder to obtain a pre-settled or settled status that allows someone to learn and have access to healthcare in the UK.

A deal was made between the EU and UK through a settlement scheme before Brexit. The scheme allowed non-UK residence from the EU, Liechtenstein, Norway, Iceland, and Switzerland to come (or stay) without applying for a Visa. But this scheme quickly ended on the 30 th of June 2021.

Now, a student will need to apply for a UK visa which does require various mandated requirements such as:

• Adequate money to support themselves
• Enough funds to pay for the course(s) – Or a licensed student sponsor
• 16 years of age or older
• Speak basic English

Notably, you don’t need a visa to study for an A-Level course shorter than six months. The only obligation is that you’re studying at an accredited institution.

Although international students can still attend A-Level Studies, it’s considerably more challenging than ever. But accessibility wasn’t the only concern. Therefore, let’s look at the costs now associated with this type of schooling.

COSTS

Including the above costs is another fear that’s linked to international students. Although the physical costs of an A-Level course will remain the same (plus inflation), they’ll be more fees connected with overseas students.

The main two are the Visa fees and the uncertainty of employment. The application costs of a UK visa can range massively. Prices can fluctuate depending on the individual situation, but these can cost anywhere between 118 to 1,018 euros.

Additionally, they might want to have a part-time employment role to support their out-of-school lifestyle. Without a permanent residency, it can showcase some issues when applying for a job role. Many businesses look for permanent residency to ensure a stable company. Failing to meet this requirement could showcase when trying to find a job role.

There are some extra costs that an international student can now enter after Brexit. Although these might not seem significant (depending on your situation), it’s undoubtedly still a concern with many overseas parents or students.

CREDITABILITY

The UK’s departure from the EU has left people worried about the creditability of A-Level certificates. Its been a concern for many entering or considering participating in this type of education who are international citizens.

However, despite Brexit, the creditability of A-Levels will remain the same. The recognition of these qualifications is overseen by the European Higher Education Area (EHEA) and Bologna Process, which they’ve stated that there won’t be any changes in its value.

To conclude this, an A-Level qualification will still be recognised worldwide as a “gold-standard” United Kingdom education today and well into the future. Because of this, A-Level certificates are more than worth obtaining as their value is considered superior globally.

STAFFING

Various EU teachers are required in the UK because of compacity, specialities, and much more. But, with the new rules and regulations in place for pre-settled or settled statuses, it’s becoming increasingly more difficult for overseas teachers to work in the UK.

In 2019, the UK felt the pressure of losing many EU workers. It occurred in many industries, but learning was undoubtedly the most worrying. This year alone (pre-Brexit), they saw a decrease in applicants for language teaching by 25%. Considering this was only one of the many topics available
for A-Levels, it’s a substantial amount.

The drop in applicants was because of the requirements needed for a working Visa. They must have a specific amount of money, earn enough, be employed by a licensed employee, and fulfil many more obligations. Combining all these, many EU teaching professionals have looked elsewhere.

When thinking about the above, the quality of teaching within A-Levels could drop. Non-UK teachers play a significant role within the education structure. If this continues to drop further, an increase of pupils per class will become apparent, and teachers’ value could decrease.

CONCLUSION

After reading the above, you should have a more comprehensive idea about how the education system will change in the future for international A-Level students. Although it’s still achievable for many, the UK has undoubtedly made it more difficult. Additionally, fewer student sponsors are also
being offered because of the mandated requirements a student must fulfil.

After reviewing the above and combining the evidence, we recommend contacting us. W’re an International Academy that offers A-Level courses in Europe and online. Throughout the 20+ years of doing this, we’ve helped thousands of inspiring young individuals achieve A-Levels, along with getting them into their chosen university.

If you’re interested in our services, feel free to enter your information here, and a helpful representative will contact back regarding your request.

Author: Alex