Private schools in the UK

What are private schools in the UK?

Private schools in the UK, often referred to as independent schools or public schools, are educational institutions that are not funded or maintained by the government. These schools are instead privately funded.

Private schools have more autonomy in terms of their curriculum and offer a broad variety of extracurricular activities, encouraging the students to explore their interests and master skills during both their study and free time.

It is common for the students to stay on campus to get the full immersive experience and mix with the other international students. Private schools in the UK therefore often house facilities that include spaces for clubs and hobbies such as sports, arts and science.

Wha qualifications are offered at UK international schools?

There are multiple internationally recognized diplomas and qualifications you can receive at secondary school. Our private school in England offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma and British A-Level qualifications. Both qualifications are highly esteemed by top universities due to their first-class curriculum and a wide range of subject options.

International Baccaleaureat (IB diploma)

Graduate from a UK private school with an IB diploma. Universities globally recognize and value this internationally acclaimed high school qualification. Students study a total of six subjects at standard and higher levels, creating a diploma that underscores their strengths and places internationalism at the heart of the curriculum.

  • 2-year program

  • Ages 16-19

  • Grades 11-12

A-Levels

The well-known British secondary (high) school curriculum permits students to delve deeply into subjects at a high level. Those with a desire to pursue higher education (university) in the UK or with well-defined career aspirations from an early stage often opt for A-Levels as a means to concentrate on their interests and cultivate thorough expertise in specific subjects.

  • 2-year program

  • Ages 16-18

  • Grades 11-12


Our private school campus in the UK

Our private school in the UK welcomes local and internatioanl students, creating an open atmosphere with a global community. Our Oxford campus provides a personalized private school education that helps students master the skills that they need to succeed in life.


The benefits of attending EF Academy private school in England

Take the first step towards your global future by joining an international boarding school in UK with a strong emphasis on academic excellence, thorough university preparation and enriching co-curricular activities.


FAQ – Private schools in the UK

Around 6% of children in the UK are being educated in private schools such as EF Academy.

Both degrees offered at EF Academy Oxford cover Grades 11 and 12. Therefore the minimum age required for enrolment is 16.

Like most independent schools in the UK, the day to day timetable at EF Academy in Oxford contains a mix of classes, tutoring and meal breaks. The academic growth is furthered by cultural exchange and 1:1 mentoring. Research has also shown academic performance to be improved by activities outside of class that form a healthy balance and allow the students to expand their horizons. Clubs, sports, study sessions and other hands-on activities lay the foundation for both essential life skills and a successful application at a renowned university.

The degrees offered by EF Academy Oxford are both respected by universities in the UK and around the world. The advantage of getting any of these degrees at private school is that students receive a lot more individual attention thanks to smaller classes and access to excellent facilities and private tutoring.

Having staff help you plan your academic future post-degree is also a fantastic benefit. This includes having a Pathway Manager who helps you set and reach goals, oversees your schedule, instills confidence and guides you socially and emotionally in addition to academically.

Thanks to the highly individualized approach of our independent school, many have gone on to successfully study at high-ranking universities in the UK or abroad.

The IB Diploma and A-Level programs are both widely recognized by leading universities in the UK and worldwide. When deciding on the most suitable program for your studies in Oxford, the choice ultimately depends on your individual goals and expectations. A-Levels, being the standard British high school qualification, stand out as the favored option for students aiming to apply to UK universities or concentrate on in-depth study of three or four subjects. On the other hand, the internationally recognized IB Diploma shapes subjects in a global context, offering a broader perspective as students delve into six subjects along with an additional core curriculum.

Our private school in England provides a very safe learning environment, with staff and security on campus day and night. This ensures that students have someone to turn to anytime they need assistance. House parents live in the residences to assist students with the development of healthy habits. The campus clinic offers help should a student fall ill, and all of our students are registered with a general practitioner for cases of serious illness or emergencies.

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