Study and education in Scotland. Why choose higher education in Scotland

Scottish education is of high quality, solid, and therefore very prestigious. It is highly rated internationally - there are graduates of Scottish educational institutions in almost all countries, and many countries have built their education systems on the Scottish model. The popularity of Scottish education is evidenced by the following figures: 9% of the total UK population lives here, but 15% of the total UK population lives here. Those. - the proportion of students relative to the total population of Scotland is approximately 1.5 times higher than in other regions of the UK. In Scotland, every 2nd young resident of the country chooses higher education - in the EU this figure is very high.

Education in the Scottish value system is of the utmost importance - next to the other 2 parts of the old trinity ("ancient trinity") - the law and the church. And it is not surprising that the history of Scottish education goes back centuries:

  • of the current British universities, Scottish St. Andrews, founded in 1410, is the third oldest (after Oxford and Cambridge);
  • since 1496, everyone in the country is required to study from the age of 6;
  • in the middle of the 16th century. there are 4 universities in Scotland (out of 6 that existed then on the territory of modern Great Britain);
  • At the University of Aberdeen, opened in 1451, the first medical faculty in English-speaking countries was created (and it is still considered one of the best in the world).

Now there are 14 higher educational institutions in the country + many colleges focused on vocational education.

Another reason for Scotland's popularity among international students is that prices for goods and services are lower compared to other British regions. But, of course, living in large cities in Scotland will be more expensive compared to small towns.

Scotland is mysterious and beautiful, with picturesque nature and a rich cultural heritage. It is not very big - a day is enough to cover it completely by car. Scotland is beautiful and mysterious. But there are more than enough places here that are fascinating with their history and beauty (ancient castles, mountain lakes, ancient whiskey distilleries, etc.). And the Scots themselves are very sensitive to their history, traditions and culture.

Scotland's education system - features and advantages

The Scottish education system differs from the general British one (and, according to the Scots themselves, for the better). We will not interfere in the debate, but we will make a comparison:

  • in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, elementary school, or primary school, lasts 6 years (from 5 years old to 11 years old), in Scotland - 7 years (from 5 years old to 12 years old);
  • those. secondary education, or secondary school, will be shorter compared to the rest of the UK (from 12 years to 16, i.e. 4 years, not 5);
  • but - at this stage, Scottish children study more subjects than schoolchildren in other regions of the United Kingdom;
  • and this is also why Scots can (by choice) finish school a year earlier (at 17, instead of 18), and study at university 1 year longer.

And now - more about the Scottish education system.

As has already been written, school is attended from the age of 5 until the age of 16. But many parents already from the age of 4 send their children to the so-called Pre-school (preparatory stage for school - something like our kindergarten). Where they are taught to draw, dance, sing, read, write and count.

From 5 years old to 12 years old - primary school education. Here they continue to study reading, writing, arithmetic, they begin to study computer science, natural history, the fundamentals of art, they also study ethics and religion.

From the age of 12 until the age of 15 - secondary school education, the SCE exam is the Scottish Certificate of Secondary Education, at the end of which students must pass. This certificate corresponds to our certificate and the English GCSE (General Certificate of Secondary education).

By the age of 15, a child has a choice - either go to college, or study for another 3 years (up to 18 years old) at school, and then pass exams in 5-6 disciplines - and go to college. In the Russian Federation and some CIS countries, by the way, there is a similar system - when you have to choose: vocational school or technical school after the 9th grade or a university after the 11th grade.

Those who choose a school up to the age of 18, upon completion, receive an Advanced Higher certificate, similar to the UK-wide A-Level (some Scottish schools issue it directly - but most still work according to the local system). It gives you the right to enter all universities in the UK, even Oxbridge. And to universities in Scotland - of course.

Most schools in Scotland are state schools. There are not very many private schools - there are 130 of them (boarding schools - 30, i.e. with accommodation and full provision for students), 5% of the children study there. But they usually provide deeper and more diverse knowledge.

The country has a central management organization - SOEID, which translates to the Scottish Department of Education and Industry). It registers all existing schools in the country, which it informs about its requirements - and they develop their curricula based on them. Also, department specialists regularly check the general state of affairs in the school (how comfortable it is in the classrooms, whether the equipment works and how modern it is, etc.) and the pedagogical level of teachers, testing their students in various subjects. There are also 5 grades, like ours - from A (highest) to E (lowest).

Professional and academic education

The Scottish educational system can be classified according to another principle:

  • professional education,
  • academic learning.

A special body, SQA (Scotland Qualification Authority), classifies programs into either one or another type.

Both colleges and universities in the country work in both these areas - but in most cases preferring vocational training. The Scottish system is generally geared specifically towards training specialist practitioners. For example, they train the best specialists in Europe in the oil and gas industry. Applied disciplines are also taught there at a very high level.

As a result, professional education can be acquired in several ways - by starting to study at a college at the age of 15, or at a university at the age of 18. In total, there are 43 colleges in the country (their analogues in Russia are technical schools). They train applied and academic level specialists in areas such as business fundamentals, IT technology, electronics, engineering, design, medicine, media, finance and many other specialties. In vocational colleges, modern technologies are mastered, the working environment is simulated - that is, theoretical knowledge is immediately supported by practical skills, and students are formed as full-fledged, versatile specialists.

Universities

Students who have studied in college for a year receive a Higher National Certificate, those who studied for 2 years in college receive a Higher Education Diploma - i.e. literally translated as “Diploma of Higher Education”. It corresponds to 2 years of bachelor's degree. Its holders enter universities immediately into the 3rd year. Therefore, most colleges cooperate with universities in this aspect, and college graduates move directly to senior years of universities.

For foreigners, in order to enter universities in Scotland, you can take a program that prepares you for admission to university (Foundation). Applicants who complete the program can enter not only Scottish, but also English universities. For foreigners, such programs are the most guaranteed way to achieve this.

Naturally, to study at universities in the UK, you need to know the language of the country at a very high level. Minimum:

  • on the IELTS test - 5.5 points (for some faculties - 6, for such disciplines as medicine and law - 7);
  • on the TOEFL test - 550 points (in some cases - 600).

Therefore, it often needs to be tightened. And the most effective way to do this is the language schools of Scotland, which offer both the study of English in general, as well as specialized ones for admission to specific faculties (i.e., with an emphasis on professional vocabulary). And thanks to the compactness and multinationality of study groups, coupled with the professionalism of teachers, excellent results are achieved very quickly.

It is better to submit documents in advance. If you have enough time, you can weigh your capabilities and chances, choose a suitable university, prepare well and manage to do everything in the right time.

Higher and postgraduate education

To complete a bachelor's degree, you need to study at a university for 4 years. In the first 2 of them, basic subjects are studied, and in the 3rd and 4th, major disciplines are studied. As a result, students acquire a Bachelor with Honors degree - Bachelor with Honors. At the same time, thanks to the flexibility of the curricula of Scottish universities, students have the opportunity to choose any subjects to study, even those that may seem incompatible at first glance. The result is an interesting synthesis and united disciplines - a joint degree. For example - Bachelor of Marketing and Philosophy. It is already possible to study according to the “study - work - study” system (the so-called “sandwich courses”) - and, in parallel with academic studies, do an internship in a specialized specialty.

The UK is the best place to learn English. And Scotland is one of the best options. Studying English in Scotland involves constant communication with native speakers. These are both teachers and local residents. Schools offer quality programs for those who are planning to move to this country or want to study. Studying a language in Scotland is one of the most effective options.

English courses in Scotland will help even those who don’t know it at all to understand English; special programs have been developed for beginners. You don’t have to worry about understanding the information, because Russian-speaking teachers can help you with this.

Learning a language in Scotland involves familiarizing yourself with the classic version of British English. This means that your pronunciation will be clear and correct. English language courses in Scotland will help you be more successful in work, study, and also improve your speech when communicating with foreigners. The only thing you need to take care of is obtaining a visa and choosing a school with the desired program. And they will help you with this LogosStudyGroup!

Teaching English in Scotland is carried out using specially developed programs and time-tested methods. There are directions with different intensity and duration. The main ones:

  • English for beginners ( Beginners ). The program allows you to learn English from scratch, even if there is no language practice at all.
  • Business course. You can learn English in Scotland on your own, when at work you constantly need to deal with foreign partners and documentation in English. You can send a whole group of employees for advanced training.
  • Program for preparing for exams. The English School in Scotland helps prepare applicants for entrance exams. Test assignments are being worked on IELTS , if you want to study in the UK, USA, Canada and other countries. The programs are also good for students.
  • Intensive English. Intensive language courses in Scotland are an opportunity to quickly improve your English, start speaking more confidently, and gain a lot of knowledge.

An English language school in Scotland will be useful not only for those who learn the basics of the language. Russian teachers also often need similar courses. This is a worthy advanced training; upon completion of training, a certificate is issued. It will be especially useful for private teachers. By studying English in Scotland, you can adopt many effective techniques that will be practiced when teaching Russian students.

Choosing the right school

Choosing a School is quite difficult. You can learn the language anywhere in Scotland. There are decent options in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Stirling and other cities. Company LogosStudyGroup for a long time provides the opportunity to easily go to a good school. We know all the intricacies and will help with paperwork. We provide consultations and select the best option.

How much do the courses cost? It all depends on the specific school and program. For those who want to learn English in Scotland, the cost of a 2-week course will be around £600. The price is also affected by the inclusion (if possible) of food and accommodation.

Do you want to know English at a more advanced level? It is better to do this in the UK, in his homeland. And Scotland is a great choice!

By deciding to get an education in Scotland, you have made the right choice! We offer a full range of educational services:

  • secondary education in Scotland;
  • language courses in Scotland (Edinburgh), offering several training programs;
  • summer language schools in Scotland (Aberdeen, Edinburgh and other cities);
  • higher education in Scotland (Glasgow).

Secondary education in Scotland

Proud Scots love to compete with prim England in everything. This historical confrontation also affected the education system. Scottish schoolchildren enter the secondary classes at the age of 12, while the English already at 11. Thus, the duration of primary school education is 7 years, which is 1 year longer than in England. The Scots believe that an extra year at school is good for children.
Among private Scottish schools, single-sex schools have become widespread. The most famous school for boys, Merchiston Castle is famous for its rich Scottish traditions. In the process of difficult learning, schoolchildren perfectly master the main subjects of the school cycle and foreign languages ​​(French, Italian, etc.). The school ranks first in the ranking of Scottish educational institutions. It is interesting because children study from morning until late evening. It’s not easy to get here: despite the heavy school load, there are a lot of applicants.
Among girls' schools, the Scottish School of St. George in Edinburgh is popular. It traces its history back to the 19th century. The initial goal of girls attending school was to enter the University of Edinburgh. A century later, the school continues to function and actively collaborate with Merchiston Castle. Graduates of St. George's School pass exams with excellent marks and enter the best universities. The school practices an individual approach to each student. St. George's School educates both Scottish girls and boarders - girls from other cities and even countries. The residence is located on the school grounds.

Language courses in Scotland

Studying English in Scotland is organized at the Regent language center, which is located in the capital of the country - Edinburgh. Here you can quickly learn English from scratch, improve your knowledge, and learn spoken English in the UK itself. After the training sessions, the amazingly beautiful Edinburgh with its monuments and castles, theaters and restaurants awaits you.
English teaching is also actively carried out by other schools located outside Edinburgh. As a rule, small towns located in picturesque corners of Scotland offer not only English language courses, but also a wonderful pastime in nature. The colorful landscapes of Scotland and the hospitality of the Scots will not leave anyone indifferent.

Study English in Scotland

Summer language school in Scotland is a great option to spend the summer with benefits for your mind and health. Clean air, beautiful summer weather and an abundance of greenery have a healing effect on the body and strengthen the immune system. Schools accept children from 9 years old. It is important to note that many private schools are located in ancient mansions and castles, which makes a stay in Scotland a real adventure for children.
Standard school offerings include about 20 English lessons per week and a large entertainment program. The halls and classrooms are well equipped, and students can use the library. A mandatory point in each program is a visit to London and its attractions.

Higher education in Scotland

For those who want to study in Scotland at a college or university, all conditions for comfortable living, studying and recreation will be provided. Both British and foreign students study at universities in Scotland. Everyone can choose a specialty to their liking.
In this harsh and mountainous country, a real oasis of wild nature, you can relax and gain fundamental knowledge at recognized institutions of higher education.
Particularly popular is the Scottish University of Glasgow Caledonian, located in the largest and most prosperous city in the country - Glasgow. Here you can become a specialist in such interesting industries as optometry, computer animation, e-commerce and many others.
The cost of studying at universities in Scotland is affordable for representatives of various social groups. The acquired knowledge and skills allow graduates to find prestigious jobs in the best companies in Europe. The effectiveness of training clearly shows that Scotland is ready to offer education of the highest level to international students.

Scotland, part of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, differs sharply from its neighbors. She managed to achieve significant autonomy from England, thanks to which the local flavor that attracts tourists has been largely preserved. Tourists who come to this country for the first time will be impressed not only by the local cities and parks, but also by the ancient castles. Some of them have been reconstructed and look about the same as they did hundreds of years ago. History buffs won't want to miss other historic attractions in cities like Aberdeen, with its thousand-year history.

Scotland is no less attractive in terms of education. Parents send their children here to study in primary, middle and high schools, as well as for higher education.

Most Scottish schools are state schools, with only a small percentage of students attending private schools. All schools in Scotland are required to register with the Department of Education and Industry. The quality of education and conditions are regularly checked by department inspectors.

Private schools in Scotland are of greater interest to foreign children, especially those that operate on a boarding basis and provide accommodation for their students. Another important advantage of these schools is more diverse programs and better equipment. Children from other countries feel comfortable and safe here, which helps them quickly adapt to the new environment and avoid the stress associated with moving to another country. Therefore, parents who want their child to receive a quality education will make the right choice if they send him to one of the schools in Scotland.

Education in Scotland

The country's course aimed at its autonomy from England did not affect the desire to master the best that is in the civilized world. Education in Scotland, of which this country is rightfully proud, was no exception. The Scots do not consider their education system inferior to the British one, which for many is the standard, and they strive to stand out against its background. The main features of the Scottish education system are shown in the table:

Level of education

Age of students

Features of training

Elementary education

From 5 to 12 years

In primary school, students develop basic skills such as writing, reading, arithmetic.

Secondary education

Compulsory secondary education

From 12 to 16 years

In secondary school, the course of subjects studied expands. Upon completion of training, students take exams and receive a certificate of secondary education.

Higher secondary education

From 16 to 18 years old

Students who plan to obtain higher education continue their studies at a higher secondary school to obtain a HigherGrade certificate.

Higher education

To obtain basic higher education, that is, a bachelor's degree, students study for four years. After this, you can continue to study for a master's degree and doctorate.

A key feature of Scottish education is the wide range of knowledge and skills acquired. The extensive experience of Scottish universities is evidenced by the fact that four of the first six universities were opened in Scotland (the University of St Andrews, the University of Glasgow, the University of Aberdeen and the University of Edinburgh). Every year, students from different countries come here for diverse knowledge that opens up a lot of new horizons. On average, the number of foreign students in Scottish universities is 10-15% of the total, and in some it reaches 45%.

Having received an education in Scotland, you will certainly achieve your goals and open up a lot of opportunities and prospects in your future career.

Study in Scotland

Studying in Scotland is represented in several areas:

Primary and secondary schools

Higher education

Language schools

Summer language camps for children

Education in Scotland has many advantages, which explains its popularity. Here are the main ones:

✔ As mentioned earlier, Scottish education is of the highest standards and is renowned throughout the world for its quality.

✔ Diplomas from local universities are recognized in all countries of the world.

✔ Many Scottish universities, including the University of Edinburgh, are among the TOP universities in the UK. Specialties such as the oil and gas industry, engineering, IT and applied sciences are especially developed here.

✔ The cost of education in Scottish schools, as well as prices for accommodation in the country, are somewhat lower than in the UK.

✔ Studying in Scotland is an opportunity not only to get an education, but also to spend an unforgettable time in a beautiful country, which is known for its rich cultural life, picturesque landscapes, vibrant festivals and ancient history.

✔ In addition to quality education in Scottish schools, you can get powerful language practice and significantly improve your English language skills.

A long history of existence, worldwide recognition and positive feedback from students are the best evidence of the quality of Scottish education. By enrolling in a local school or university, you will certainly be satisfied with your choice and will be able to achieve all your goals.

Scottish schools

It is worth mentioning separately about private Scottish schools that provide English language courses for foreign students. Edinburgh schools are the most popular, but students can study English not only in the capital, but also in other equally interesting cities. All schools are well equipped and have excellent academic resources - comfortable classrooms, modern technological equipment, and computers with Internet access. Some schools also offer sports, arts and entertainment facilities.

Edinburgh English Language Schools provide courses for students of all ages and nationalities. You can take a general or business English course, a preparation course for passing exams or entering an English-speaking university. In language schools, education is conducted with complete immersion in the language environment. This practice is considered the most effective and allows you to overcome the language barrier in the shortest possible time and achieve your goals.

If you want your child to improve their English language skills, any of the many Scottish schools for children is at your service. They are organized on the principle of summer camps - here children can not only improve their English skills, but also spend an exciting vacation. Many schools offer sports, art, or other academic classes in addition to traditional classes. An integral part of studying at language schools is an introduction to the culture and attractions of Edinburgh, as well as an exciting entertainment program.

The staff of language schools also take care of the accommodation of their students and offer different housing options. This could be a host family, residence, apartment or hotel. Homestays help you get to know the Scottish lifestyle and culture better, while residences and apartments are preferred by more independent students.

An English course at a language school in Scotland will be a wonderful gift for your child. Here children make new friends, learn independence and simply have an unforgettable time that they will remember for many years to come.

Scotland's education system includes pre-school, general secondary, special vocational and higher education.

Preschool education

There are no traditional kindergartens in Scotland. However, there are pre-school classes, an analogue of our kindergartens, which children attend from the age of 4, and where they are taught drawing, singing, dancing, basic mathematics, reading and spelling.

General secondary education

From 5 to 12 years old, children attend primary school. Children's knowledge is tested using tests in reading, writing and mathematics. Grades range from A (the highest score, analogous to our A) to E. At the age of 12, students move to secondary school. At the age of 15, students take exams for the Scottish Certificate of Education (SCE Standard Grade), which corresponds to the English GCSE. After this, the student can either move to a further education college or continue studying at school with the aim of obtaining a Higher Grade certificate. To do this, you need to study from 16 to 18 years old and pass exams in 5 or 6 subjects. This certificate is enough to enroll in Scottish universities.

To study in other parts of the United Kingdom or to get into one of the top universities in Scotland, you need to complete the so-called “sixth year” of school and obtain the Scottish Certificate of Sixth Year Studies (SCSYS), which is equivalent to the UK-wide GCE A-level diploma. Now, instead of the SCSYS certificate, graduates are issued an Advanced Higher certificate. It generally corresponds to A-level. Higher and Advanced Higher certificates are recognized by all UK universities.

Special vocational education

Special vocational education in Scotland can be obtained after leaving school at the age of 16. Today in Scotland there are 43 colleges of special or further education (analogous to Russian technical schools). In colleges you can get a specialty in the following areas: information technology, studying the basics of business, electronics, design, sports, tourism, interior and exterior design, healthcare, media, finance. After a year of full-time study, you can receive a Higher National Certificate, and students who have studied for two years become holders of a Higher Education Diploma.

Higher education

Foundation preparatory programs can serve as an alternative to studying at further education colleges. There is also a unified Scottish international preparatory program SIFP, the successful completion of which gives graduates the opportunity to enter almost any university in Scotland.

The admission procedure for Scottish higher education institutions is no different from admission to English institutions and is carried out through the national UCAS service. The procedure for admission and paperwork should begin as early as possible - 1-2 years before the date of admission. The extra time will allow you to choose the right university, realistically assess your capabilities, prepare and pass all exams on time.

The basic course of higher education at a Scottish university (undergraduate) lasts 4 years. Upon completion of training, a bachelor's degree is awarded. The final year of study gives students the opportunity to obtain a Bachelor with Honors degree.

The first two years, students study a wide range of basic subjects, and then devote another two years to special disciplines in their chosen profile. Scottish universities are characterized by curriculum flexibility. Students have the opportunity to study a wide variety of disciplines, even if they are taught in different departments.

Graduates can be awarded double degrees (joint degrees), for example, in the field of accounting and economics. Some educational institutions in Scotland offer so-called sandwich courses, giving students the opportunity to gain practical work experience during their studies.

Postgraduate education(postgraduate) is available to everyone with diplomas from recognized educational institutions around the world. Scottish universities offer an intensive one-year master's degree program and a three-year advanced doctorate program.

 

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