Are you relocating to the bustling metropolis of London, the capital of the United Kingdom? Are you concerned about your children’s education? Don’t be.
London is one of the best cities in the world for education. Thousands of people from all over the globe chose to make London their home every year. As a US expat, you won’t be alone. As well as its long colorful history and its vibrant character, London has some very impressive schools. Your children’s education certainly won’t be lacking. Read on for a rundown on some of the best schools in London for US expats.
Firstly, you need to consider your children’s age. Will they be attending Primary, Middle, or Secondary School? Do you have any special requirements? The British curriculum is well-known around the world. Do you want your children to go to a British school, or do you want your children to follow the US curriculum?
Fortunately, London can offer the US expat a range of schools catering to all your requirements. You can choose from an International School, a State-run public school, or an independent private school.
Most international schools in London follow the International Baccalaureate curriculum known as the IB curriculum. If your job means moving every couple of years, the IB curriculum ensures consistency as it is standard in international schools globally.
Facts to know about school life in England
- School is compulsory from the age of five to eighteen.
- Attendance at a state school is free.
- The school year runs from early September to mid-July. It is thirty-nine weeks of tuition divided into six terms, separated by holidays.
- Typically, the school day starts at 8 am/ 9 am to 3 pm/4 pm, but this may vary slightly.
- Nursery or Preschool is available but not compulsory.
- Seven years of primary and three years of secondary are compulsory. There are two more years of preparation for the GCSE or General Certificate of Secondary Education. It is mandatory to undertake some form of study till 18.
- Unlike in the US, most schools in England require that the students wear a uniform.
- The school holidays are Christmas: two weeks, Spring: two weeks and Summer: six weeks. There is also a week’s holiday at the end of October, mid-February, and May.
Finding the right college for your child is an essential factor in ensuring a happy transition to a new city in a new country. Below are some of the most highly regarded schools in London.
The American School in London
This school offers the US curriculum and caters to students from Kindergarten to High School. There are over seventy countries represented with fifty-two different languages spoken. It provides a diverse learning environment for your child. Your child also has the opportunity to study robotics or journalism, take part in educational field trips abroad, and participate in a range of sports and athletics. There is a swimming pool on-site as well as acres of green natural playground. There is a performing arts program open to students interested in drama, music, and dance.
If you would like to learn more about this establishment, you can visit their website here
The International School of London
This school caters to students from three to eighteen years old. Tuition is divided into Kindergarten, Middle school, and Diploma College. It offers the International Baccalaureate program. Students leave fully prepared to attend university.
The core values of The International School of London are:
“Diversity is embracing and learning from each other—our many cultures, languages, experiences, beliefs and backgrounds, and our varied perspectives—in order to expand our minds, foster creativity, and lead in innovation. I succeed. Understanding is the compassion, learning, commitment, respect, and trust needed to understand ourselves and others to thrive in a complex world. I understand. Identity is the nurturing of the individual within a multicultural context, providing a platform for self-expression and awareness as empowered international citizens. I belong. Passion is the driver of the schools’ love for learning and growing, whether in the classroom, on the playing fields, in after-school activities, or in our contribution to better our communities and futures. I dream.”
All students learn at least one other language will the opportunity to learn two foreign languages. There are many sporting facilities both indoor and outdoor and so is prepared for London’s weather. Teams participate in inter-school competitions.
If you would like to learn more information, you can visit their website here.
TASIS The American School in England
TASIS caters to students from three to eighteen years, with tuition divided between lower, middle, and high school. They follow the International Baccalaureate program. Students can participate in various sports and inter-school competitions. There is a fitness center on campus as well as playing fields and tennis courts. Students are encouraged to participate in sporting activities to promote health. Languages and arts are also encouraged.
“TASIS England inspires a passion for learning throughout our day and boarding programs. Your children will be encouraged to take ownership of their learning and to contribute to their community. At TASIS England, they will gain independence, responsibility, respect, and a sense of creativity through the development of relationships that will transcend their time at our School. Quite simply, we are developing the leaders of the future by going above and beyond in every aspect of school life. Your children will benefit from and contribute to our School, not only by excelling in academics, but also by developing the attributes of compassion, empathy, respect, and gratitude. “
If you would like more information about this school, its fees, and the admission process, you can visit their website here.
The City of London School for Boys
CLS for boys is an independent academic school for boys from the age of ten to eighteen. It dates back to the fifteenth century and upholds its tradition of academic excellence and educational innovation. In 2020 it was voted London Independent Secondary School of the year.
“We aspire to be a school that fully prepares respectful, optimistic, and inquisitive boys for the rapidly changing demands of the twenty-first century. We aim always to provide an education in the broadest sense, combining academic excellence with exceptional pastoral care, framed by an outward-looking and forward-thinking approach. We also strive to make that education available to as many talented boys as possible.”
You can visit their website here.
The City of London School for Girls
CLS for girls is an independent academic school for girls from the age of seven to eighteen and is the sister school of the City of London School for Boys. Both City of London schools follow the British curriculum.
“City strives to ensure that all girls achieve their full potential, and the inclusive atmosphere ensures every girl has an opportunity to shine. There are co-curricular clubs, teams, and societies to suit everyone’s interests. Whether it is languages, business, law, or politics, the creative arts, or sports, there is an activity to suit everyone. Sixth form students, who run a number of the societies, also have the opportunity to start a new activity.”
If you would like more information on this girls’ school, you can visit their website here.
ACS Cobham International School
This International School is located in leafy Surrey and caters to students aged three to eighteen. Students and teachers come from over a hundred countries, making it a truly international experience. There is the choice of the world-renowned International Baccalaureate curriculum or the US programs.
ACS schools have strict anti-bullying and anti-racial policies.
“ACS is a dynamic learning community. We welcome people locally and from around the world to create a powerful, shared experience that shapes the way we teach and learn. We strive to build strong partnerships with parents to support their children’s education and well-being. Above all, we appreciate that happiness enriches learning.
By working to achieve shared learning outcomes, we build the knowledge, understanding, skills, and dispositions that prepare our students to make a difference. To be ready as global thinkers and doers, every ACS International Schools student is becoming an effective learner, a confident individual, and a caring contributor.”
If you’d like to learn more about this establishment, you can check out their website here.
In Conclusion
Our children’s education is a paramount consideration when relocating overseas. You are already enhancing your child’s education by immersing them in this vibrant and dynamic city. London has so much to offer its visitors. Here we have listed a few schools that may make the transition faster and easier. Whether you chose an international school, an independent public school, or the state system, in the end, your child will only benefit from this unique opportunity that you have made available to them.