Primary, secondary education in Wales for international studens. List of 10 top institutions, 2023 fees, rankings

Wales is an interesting educational destination for those who want to get a diploma in an English–speaking country. The country offers high-quality programs at more affordable prices than in England, and puts forward not the most stringent requirements for applicants. Another advantage of education in Wales is the chance to get acquainted with the distinctive Welsh culture and nature.             

There is no unified system of education in Britain, because all educational institutions in Wales are controlled at the state, local level. In general, the educational policy in the UK countries has diverged greatly: England has focused on the diversity of educational institutions, while Wales and Scotland have retained the idea of a community-based comprehensive school.

General secondary education in Wales is compulsory and free for children aged 5 to 16 years. A parent can enroll their child in any school at will. Local government bodies are responsible for organizing the admission procedure to schools in accordance with state requirements reflected in the document School Admission Code (Law on Admission to School).

Below the information about stages of education is provided in the context of the student's age:

• Preschool education – up to five years
• Primary education in Wales – 5-11 years old
• Secondary school – 11-16 years old
• Graduating classes and colleges – 16-18 years old.

• Academic preparation

Development of certain skills: independent and team work, developed logical thinking, quick search for information, structured text, methods of effective memorization, public speaking and much more.

• Variability of education

The education of students becomes an integral part of the educational process. Some educational institutions focus on the development of leadership qualities, while others focus on the development of exemplary manners.

• Sport classes

A healthy lifestyle is a priority here. Students are offered a choice of several dozen different sports sections. Everyone can choose what they will be really interested in doing.

• Interest groups

Additional classes may be part of the schedule. Active and entertaining work is carried out in interest clubs and scientific communities. One of the most popular directions is music, art, and theater.

• Organization of leisure

Not only excursions also act as a useful pastime, but also hiking, expeditions, for which they are often prepared in advance.

The foreign students need to pass language test and personal interview. In case of enrolment on the program GCSE, it is necessary to pass examination tests in natural sciences and mathematics, on the A-level - in four disciplines. Foreign applicants with an insufficient level of English are recommended to first receive intensive language studying in special international centers (based on ranking educational institutions). At the same time, the studying will take place simultaneously with the standard academic program.

Depending on the requirements of a particular secondary  school in Wales, the package of documents for studying in England may vary.

Main documents are as following:

• Report card (may contain grades for the last 2-3 years of study), at the same time, they may ask for a transcript: number of hours, name of disciplines;
• Certificate of international standard (confirms the level of proficiency in English), passing scores may vary depending on the educational institution;
• Letters of recommendation (a characteristic may be required not only from the class teacher, but also from the school principal, teachers of mathematics and English);
• A motivational letter in free form (in it the child must state why he wants to enroll in this particular school and what he expects from studying in the future).

Mostly schools in Wales offer a boarding format, which is included in the cost of services. Separate accommodation is in little demand among international students. The  schools are divided into:

• Partial. Five days a week, students live on campus, the rest of the time — outside it;
• Complete. They are represented in closed educational institutions that offer residence accommodation throughout their studies.

Accommodation in host families is possible, including meals. Comfortable living conditions have been created in the residences, which are equipped with bathrooms, kitchens, rooms for games and recreation, study rooms, computer classrooms. Teachers and administration staff with their families can also live in them. Educational dormitories are distinguished by a special atmosphere. Each of them has its own name and characteristic features.

The system of living and studying in one place, popular in secondary schools in Wales, allowing the  students to pay more attention to classes and receive a range of services at an affordable cost. Teachers also organize leisure time for students — arrange competitions, excursions. Elective classes are often offered, including sports, dance, theater, music, philosophy, pottery and much more. Children can take part in national sports competitions or public speaking competitions.

Primary schools in Wales mainly accept students on the following conditions: children are offered rooms in a dormitory (residence), elementary school students live in rooms for 4 – 10 people. Accommodation in dormitories is also provided. They are spacious, partitioned rooms. In the dormitories, each resident has his own corner with a bed, a desk, a small wardrobe for storing personal belongings, shoes, clothes. High school students are accommodated in double and single rooms.

It is legally approved that students living and studying in Wales can pay no more than 1,255 pounds annually for their studies; subsidies are also provided for students who have chosen Welsh as the main language of studying. Thus, the cost of studying here is quite acceptable.

The state cordially welcomes foreign students and applicants - the choice of educational directions here is quite wide, and the requirements are quite standard. You will need to provide a school certificate for the 11th grade (or a bachelor's/ specialist diploma if you are applying for a place in the magistracy), all diplomas and certificates, as well as confirm a high language level by passing a profile exam.