Primary classes in England UK for international students. List of 159 top institutions, 2024 fees, rankings

The English education system is considered one of the best in the world. It combines excellent academic preparation, the development of personal qualities and research skills. British schools and universities value traditions — but at the same time they quickly adapt to changes.

In the United Kingdom each child is compulsory to attend school from 5 years to 16 years old. This is controlled by special supervisory authorities. In practice, the British send their kids to school even earlier, many young Britons start their studies from the age of 4.

The school education for 4-year–olds is the choice of parents, at this age a child can stay at home or attend Primary Schools in UK. In modern realities, almost all children who turned 4 on September 1 go to school. This is due to the fact that most parents try to get to work full-time as early as possible, and the fact that it is difficult to get to a good school in the middle of the trimester, usually places are allocated before the start of the school year, and later you can only count on a waiting list.

The first year in a British primary school is called reception, in fact, it is a year of adaptation, preparation for further studies. The primary classes in UK resemble a classic kindergarten, during the day the children play, walk, draw and make various crafts. At the same time, integrating into the school-wide community, the children have the opportunity to observe older students, adopt their behavior model, socialize in the classroom and learn how to establish communication with teachers and classmates.

The list of subjects in the primary schools in UK is quite big – the pupils study mathematics, English, history, geography, are engaged in painting, music and sports. After 2 years, subjects such as information technology, art, design are added, and the range of natural sciences is expanding. In primary school in UK, the children study until the age of 10-11, after which they move to secondary school in UK.

The private schools in Britain are typically classified into two main categories:

1. Preparatory Schools (Prep Schools): These schools are distinct from high schools and often exude a familial, warm environment. However, they typically cover smaller areas and might not have comprehensive sports facilities, making them reminiscent of traditional kindergartens.

2. Junior Schools: Integrated within full-cycle secondary education institutions, these primary schools in the UK boast state-of-the-art equipment, expansive campuses, and endless extracurricular opportunities. Students usually progress to secondary education within the same institution. Nevertheless, such schools are less prevalent and might be located a significant distance from residential areas, sometimes even outside city boundaries.

Children aged 4-11 (occasionally up to 13) attend these private primary schools. Some of these schools have competitive entry from age 7, basing admission on exam scores. Both mixed-gender and single-gender (boys-only or girls-only) options are available in these institutions, similar to public schools.

Anna Chebotar

Regional Manager CIS

Why do parents choose primary and secondary schools in Britain for their children?

I think parents understand that such schools will really help the child to open up, find himself and enter the best university.

In essence, the UK's primary schools mirror the atmosphere of kindergartens: students are engaged in physical activities, creative play, singing, and more. The absence of regular homework and grading systems allows parents to gauge their child's progress through discussions with educators. These schools significantly bolster a child's social skills, teaching them to communicate, collaborate, and be accountable from a young age. For foreign students, immersion in primary schools UK can accelerate their English proficiency, enabling them to master the language almost like native speakers by the time they graduate.

Private education in the UK is marked by its relatively high fees and intense competition. Top primary schools in the UK might require applications from a very young age, prompting parents to commit to the enrollment process for several years. Yet, public schools shouldn't be overlooked; many uphold impeccable standards with commendable infrastructure.

Religious schools, especially Catholic ones, also have a significant presence in the UK. Predominantly funded by community donations, admissions to these schools often prioritize regular church attendees and those with verifiable religious affiliations. Recognizing the merits of these institutions, some parents proactively engage with the associated churches to affirm their commitment.

Selecting the ideal primary school in the UK is influenced by various factors:

• School's location

• Range of subjects and electives offered

• Extracurricular activities available

• University preparation and career guidance.

The best fit for a child hinges on their personal interests, temperament, hobbies, and preferred subjects. While the UK boasts a myriad of esteemed educational establishments, the decision should center around the child's needs and the family's logistical and financial capacities. Elite schools come with matching fees, but there are options available to cater to diverse needs.

Primary schools UK fees range from £5,000 annually outside London to £15-20,000 in central London. Generally, the older the student, the higher the tuition.

During the primary education phase in England, admission to schools typically requires an English language assessment, which could be an interview or a written test. While some schools insist on in-person interviews, others may be content with a Skype conversation. Certain primary schools UK for foreign students might also mandate a math test, with its complexity contingent on the year of entry. For advanced grades, comprehensive exams covering basics of subjects like chemistry, physics, and biology could also be necessary.