BASIC STRUCTURE OF THE BRITISH EDUCATION SYSTEM
Compulsory education in England lasts for 11 years, from age 5 to 16. It is divided into two main stages:
- Primary Education: Years 1–6 (equivalent to Reception–Grade 5 in a 12-year school system).
Secondary Education: Years 7–11 (equivalent to Grades 6–10 in a 12-year school system).
KEY ENTRY YEARS
Applications to British schools usually begin 1–3 years in advance. The most important entry points are:
- Year 7 (age 11, equivalent to Grade 6 in a 12-year school system)
- Year 9 (age 13, equivalent to Grade 8 in a 12-year school system)
Year 12 (age 16, equivalent to Grade 11 in a 12-year school system)
At these stages, admission is highly competitive and plays a crucial role in shaping each pupil’s academic future. It is important to note that applications for Year 7, Year 9 and Year 12 often begin up to three years in advance.
This guide will help you successfully navigate the admissions stages, regardless of the country, programme or school. If you would like a personalised strategy for admission into the British system, contact us.
STUDY PROGRAMMES AND EDUCATIONAL STAGES
Y7 și Y8 (GRADES 6 & 7)
These are the first two years of secondary education. Pupils study a core curriculum including English, Mathematics, Sciences and a modern language, alongside optional subjects (Art, Music, Drama, Computer Science, etc.).
In some schools, pupils sit the Common Entrance Exam in Year 8 (Year 7 in Romania). This assessment takes place in three different sessions – November, January and May/June. The results can influence the transition from Junior School to Senior School (from Y8 to Y9) in these institutions.
Y9 (GRADE 8)
This year is a key stage in the admissions process for British secondary schools, as many pupils make the transition from Junior School to Senior School. Year 9 is also an essential preparation year for the GCSE programme.
Pupils study subjects such as English, Mathematics, Natural Sciences, Humanities and Social Sciences, as well as a modern language. In addition to these core subjects, they select optional subjects offered by each school. This stage gives pupils the opportunity to develop their knowledge and skills while discovering areas of personal interest.
GCSE (Y10 + Y11, GRADES 9 & 10)
During the GCSE programme, pupils study between 9 and 12 subjects, including both compulsory ones (such as English, Mathematics, 2–3 Sciences, History/Geography, a modern language, etc.) and optional subjects chosen individually based on each pupil’s abilities and preferences.
At the end of the two-year course, after sitting exams in each subject, pupils receive their GCSE certificates.
The subjects studied and the results achieved not only influence progression to A-Levels or IB, but also the university admissions process. Choosing subjects at this stage is therefore essential for each pupil’s academic pathway.
This guide also offers strategies to prepare for the publication of GCSE/IGCSE results.
IGCSE/Pre-A-Level/Pre-IB (Y11, GRADE 10)
Some schools offer international pupils the option to complete the GCSE programme in a single year, in Year 11. This is known as IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education), also called “1-year GCSE”, “Pre-A-Level” or “Pre-IB”.
Pupils study between 5 and 7 subjects, including English, Mathematics and 1–2 Sciences. Each school has its own list of available subjects.
At the end of the course, pupils sit exams in each subject and obtain the IGCSE certificates. The results and chosen subjects are crucial not only for continuing studies but also for university admissions. Subject selection at this stage is therefore a vital decision.
This guide includes practical advice for preparing for GCSE/IGCSE results day.
A-LEVEL (Y12 + Y13, GRADES 11 & 12)
The A-Level programme takes place over the final two years of secondary school, offering pupils significant flexibility in subject choice.
Pupils typically select 3–4 subjects to study in depth, based on their personal interests and university requirements. Some schools also allow pupils to add the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ).
The EPQ is an independent qualification, worth half an A-Level (equivalent to 28 UCAS points), involving a 5,000-word research project. It is recognised by universities and employers, and some universities reduce entry requirements for pupils achieving an A*/A in EPQ.
Subjects studied at GCSE level and the grades achieved strongly impact eligibility for certain A-Level subjects. Subject choice at this stage is therefore highly significant.
At the end of the programme, pupils sit exams in each subject and obtain their A-Level certificates (equivalent to the Romanian Baccalaureate diploma).
This guide provides strategies to prepare for A-Level results day.
INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE – IB (Y12 + Y13, GRADES 11 & 12)
In Year 12, students looking for a holistic education across a broader range of subjects may opt for the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme instead of A-Levels.
The IB Diploma Programme, which we have discussed in detail in a separate article, encourages students to challenge themselves, explore personal passions and adopt a holistic approach to learning. It is highly respected, internationally recognised and available in over 3,421 schools across 157 countries.
OTHER PROGRAMMES: BTEC, UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION PROGRAMME (UFP)
BTEC courses are suited to pupils who wish to develop practical skills and knowledge in a specific field (Business, Psychology, Engineering, Sport, Art & Design) and who find traditional examinations more challenging. These courses are based on practical, skills-focused learning. Assessment is carried out throughout the course by assignments, projects or tests, rather than final examinations as with GCSEs and A-Levels.
The University Foundation Programme (UFP) is a one-year pre-university course designed for pupils who do not meet the criteria for direct admission to a UK undergraduate degree.
Some schools in the UK offer both the IB and the American education system. If you wish to study abroad, contact us for a detailed and personalised discussion.
