High School information

Experience school in one of the oldest and most respected school systems in the world! The British school system is based on the philosophy that students should be "well rounded." In addition to gaining academic knowledge, students are encouraged to participate in sports, activities and develop talents. Most schools offer a wide range of subjects as well as clubs, activities and sports. Subjects like English, Math, Science and Foreign Language are often compulsory but you can usually also study subjects like Drama, Music, Art and Humanities (History, Geography and Religion).

The British school system consists of 12 years. For the last two years of study (usually for ages 16-18), British students attend "sixth form" colleges or schools. Most EF students will attend "sixth form" at either a college or a school. School has three terms, which begin in September, January, and April. Schools usually have about 1000 students.

Teachers are very friendly, but students must always call their teachers by Sir or Miss or Mr./Mrs./Miss. Despite its formality, teachers encourage creativity. Some schools still use school uniforms, although most Sixth Form colleges/schools do not anymore.

A day in a British High School

The school day usually starts with registration at the tutor room between 8:30 and 9:00. The students listen to announcements to see what special things are happening at school today or this week. Each lesson lasts 1 hour and the students have their lessons in different class rooms throughout the day. During breaks the students usually have a snack and chat with friends. At lunch the students can usually either bring a packet lunch or have lunch at the school canteen. It is common to have Free Periods written into the time table. These are study hours which the students can use for homework, research or private study for exams.

Example of a time table