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What is high school like in England?

written by
Natasha Machado
5/11/2024
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5 min
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Have you ever dreamt of doing High School abroad? If England is the destination that makes your eyes sparkle, this article is tailor-made for you! Let's dive deep into the operation of High school English and discover why it can be a fantastic choice of interchange for Brazilian students full of desire to learn.

Structure of the English education system

The system of High School in England, known as”Secondary Education“, it's a world apart from ours. It starts earlier in the lives of young people and has a unique structure that is worth getting to know.

In the Land of the Queen, high school welcomes students at the age of 11 and accompanies them until they are 16. It is a mandatory journey for all young people, full of discoveries and learning. But the story doesn't stop there! After that, there are two more years of study, from 16 to 18, affectionately called”Sixth Form“or”College”. Those last two years are the ones that most resemble our beloved Brazilian high school.

Schools in England come in two flavors: Public and private. The public ones, maintained by the government, are free and accessible to everyone. Private ones, known as”Independent Schools“, charge monthly fees and generally offer more modern facilities and smaller class sizes. But make no mistake! Both are recognized for providing quality education.

Curriculum and disciplines: a knowledge banquet

The English curriculum is like a knowledge buffet: it has a little bit of everything, and you can choose the one that suits you best. Of course, there are the main dishes that everyone should try:

  • English: to master Shakespeare's language
  • maths: numbers have no boundaries!
  • Sciences: unraveling the mysteries of the universe

But the menu doesn't stop there. Students can take advantage of a variety of optional subjects:

  • Historia: traveling back in time without leaving the classroom
  • Geography: exploring the world in maps and theories
  • Foreign Languages: because speaking only English is not enough for a citizen of the world
  • Arts: unleashing creativity in all its forms

In the last two years, things have become even more interesting. Students choose the subjects they want to study for A-levels. It's like setting up your own dish in a gourmet restaurant of knowledge!

Assessments and exams

The English assessment system is based on large exams that are true rites of passage. The two main ones are:

  1. GCSEs (General Certificate of Secondary Education):
    • Performed at the age of 16
    • They cover a wide range of disciplines
    • They are the first major test of the academic life of English young people
  2. A-levels (Advanced Levels):
    • Made at 18
    • They focus on the subjects chosen by the student
    • They are the key that opens the doors of universities

These exams are super important and very different from our ENEM. The results of A-levels, for example, are like a passport to higher education. Universities look closely at these grades when choosing their future students.

Student life and extra activities: learning beyond books

The life of a high school student in England is much more than sitting at a desk and absorbing information. Schools are true knowledge amusement parks, offering a range of extra activities that would make anyone want to return to adolescence:

  • sports: from cricket to rugby to good old soccer
  • Music: for those who dream of being the next Beatles
  • Theatre: discovering talent worthy of the West End
  • Debate clubs: to train language and critical thinking
  • volunteerism: learning to make a difference in the community

Everyday life at English schools has its own rhythm. The use of uniform it is practically a national institution, and the schedule is well defined. Classes generally start early, around 8:30am, and end around 3:30pm. After that, many students immerse themselves in extracurricular activities, making school almost like a second home.

Preparing for university

English schools take the mission of preparing students for higher education very seriously:

  • Vocational guidance: helping students discover their passions and talents
  • Strategic choice of disciplines: putting together a curriculum that opens doors
  • Preparing for interviews: training to impress top universities
  • Visits to universities: getting to know the future options up close

The famous A-levels are the highlight of this preparation. The scores in these exams are like the winning ticket to enter the most popular universities. It's a system that rewards effort and dedication throughout high school.

Fazer High School in England it's like winning the education lottery. In addition to boosting your English, you will immerse yourself headlong into a fascinating culture and have access to an education system that is a world reference. It is a golden opportunity to grow not only in studies, but as a person.

Of course what to do interchange For the high school abroad It's quite a step. But trust me, the benefits are even greater! Take a look at this:

  • Your English will take off
  • You will make friends from the four corners of the world
  • Your independence will
  • The doors of the best universities will open to you
  • Your worldview will expand

Be Easy

Are you feeling your heart racing just thinking about this adventure? A Be Easy Exchange you are here to make that dream a reality! From choosing the perfect school to preparing for the big trip, we're by your side. Don't let fear hold you back! Get in touch with Be Easy today and start writing the first chapter of your success story abroad. Seu High School England is closer than you think, and we're here to make this the best experience of your life!

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Natasha Machado
Founder e CEO, Be Easy