British schools in the UK have for some time been a popular
option amongst European families. Why?
- Developing independence
through sixth form studies of both the International Baccalaureate Diploma
programme or A levels as a pathway to places at top universities in both
the UK and Europe.
- Accessing the all-round
education approach across academics, sport and the Arts that is British
education.
- British boarding as a
settled long-term alternative to frequent transitions between
international schools when relocating families are working both in London
and other financial centres of Europe.
- Outstanding support for
each child as an individual, including for those diverse educational
needs.
- Short-term placements of
up to one year as a tried and tested route towards bi-lingual children
with cultural understanding who are equipped to work in a Global world.
According to the ISC 2016 annual census of their 1,280
member schools, over 15,000 or 33% of international children attending ISC
member schools are from European countries. Nearly 8,000 of these children, or
55%, have parents living in the UK.
It’s hard to argue with the significant benefits enjoyed by
both European families and the UK schools who educate their children as a
result of this free-flowing working relationship. So, it’s not surprising that
many in the education sector are now asking what does Brexit mean for these
children and their families, not to mention the implications for the schools
themselves?
- Firstly, the advice is
not to panic. Keep calm and carry on! New regulations regarding EU
nationals studying in UK schools should take at least 2 years to agree and
implement. UK schools have been quick to reassure families from across
Europe with children already in UK schools that it will be business as
usual for the foreseeable future.
- UK independent schools
as a whole are a force to be reckoned with, contributing significantly to
the economy as a whole. With a Global reputation for excellence, I just
can’t envisage a situation where they submit to changes in visa rules
without a fight to retain their international element. Just as they did
with the charities commission, professional bodies such as ISC will be
lobbying key decision makers to present a strong case for the status quo.
I believe that it’s highly likely their voices will be heard when it comes
to Brexit immigration negotiations and retaining the rights for EU
nationals to gain easy access to study within UK schools and universities.
- Making lemonade out of
lemons, there is recent evidence to indicate that some international
families appear to have seen the recent currency fluctuations in Sterling
as an opportunity to now access the outstanding British school system at a
reduced cost. If you’re buying education in Euros or Dollars, you now get
more bang for your buck. With British international schools overseas
retaining high fee levels, suddenly the UK-based schools look appealing,
even if it means boarding. Last-minute enquiry numbers for Sept 2016 entry
from new European families looking to join a UK independent school are up!
- In other parts of the
world, international boarding school parents have seen a similar
opportunity due to currency fluctuations and are looking to pay a number
of terms school fees in advance. At least in the short-term, cash flow in
UK schools should remain strong allowing continued investment in
facilities and resources to maintain their outstanding reputation across
the world.
THE COUNTRY LIFE FUTURE SCHOOLS FAIR
The post-Brexit, not to be missed, opportunity for
parents to meet UK schools face-to-face
Does UK-based British education have last-minute appeal
to you?
Register now for your complimentary invitation to this
exclusive event for parents ON SATURDAY 16TH JULY IN LONDON. Click
this link for more information and to register. https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/country-life-future-schools-fair-london-tickets-19292464280
Not to be missed! Your opportunity to meet over 50
British schools face-to-face to discuss your child. An extensive seminar
programme on the day will offer lots of useful tips on how to make this happen.
Independent Consultants will be on hand to advise and guide you each step of
the way.
Need more information about The Country Life Future
Schools Fairs - visit the website www.futureschoolsfair.com
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