Destinations

Great Britain

Typical day at a British school

7:15am Your host mother wakes you up for a quick breakfast before you take the bus to school.

8:30am Attend "registration" with your tutor or go to an all-school assembly.

9:00am to 12:00pm You are in the classroom, perhaps studying British history, English or art.

12:00pm to 1:00pm Lunch time. eat a sandwich and chat with friends in the school canteen or , if the weather is nice, outdoors.

1:00pm to 3:30pm More classes, such as mathematics or psychology. Some schools offer free periods in the afternoon that students can use for private study.

3:30pm to 5:00pm After hour activities such as football practice or choir rehearsal.

High School in England, Wales and Scotland

The British education system is known as one of the oldest and best in the world. In Great Britain you will receive an unrivaled education that will prepare you for university or a future career and make friends along the way.

World-class school system

British schools aim to produce "well-rounded" students, meaning students who are intelligent, thoughtful, creative, physically fit, emotionally balanced and happy. In addition to academics, British schools encourage students to participate in sports, clubs and activities. This is a great way to make friends and it leads to being "well-rounded".

Uniforms and respect for teachers

British schools have become less formal in recent decades, but some traditions still exist. Most schools don't require school uniforms, though some do, and all schools require "suitable dress for business". Teachers work closely with students and encourage informal discussions, but you should still refer to them as "Sir", "Miss" or "Mr./Mrs."

After hours activities

Some British schools offer after school activities but most students will join community clubs rather than schoool clubs. Joining teams and clubs is a great way to make friends during your exchange year. There are many different kinds of clubs British students get involved with, from a variety of sports clubs to youth clubs to volunteering.

Popular sports include:

  • Football
  • Rugby
  • Netball
  • Tennis

Activities might include:

  • Music and singing clubs
  • Theatre
  • Astronomy club
  • Orienteering

British school system

Most children in Great Britain attend school from the age of 5 until the age of 17 or 18. The two final years of high school are called "sixth form".