Language courses for adults in Scotland. Language courses 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, in major cities Living 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, in better side). 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 send their children to the so-called Pre-school from the age of 4 ( preparatory stage to school - something like ours kindergarten). Where they are taught to draw, dance, sing, read, write and count.

From 5 years old to 12 years old - training in elementary school. Here they continue to study reading, writing, arithmetic, begin to study computer science, natural history, the fundamentals of art, and 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 - the main certificate of general 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 under 18 years of age receive an Advanced Higher certificate upon completion, 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. Private schools in not very large quantities- 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 versatile 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. Department specialists also regularly check general condition affairs at 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:

• vocational training,
• academic learning.

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

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.

Vocational education As a result, you can acquire it in several ways - by starting to study at college at the age of 15, or at the age of 18 at a university. 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 are getting used to modern technologies, 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 at 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 UK universities, you need to know the country's language 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 for this are the language schools of Scotland, which offer both studying English language in general, as well as specialized, 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 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.

Many people want to study abroad, some have all the necessary resources for this. But which country to choose for education, what are the admission rules and features of education itself in a particular country?

In this article, read about how to enter a university in England, what is needed for this, and what knowledge an applicant should have.

Free education abroad – is it real?

Many European countries offer foreign applicants the opportunity to receive education for free. Among them are France, Finland, Austria, the Czech Republic, Denmark and some others. In order to use the program, you need excellent knowledge of a foreign language and a high score on the entrance exam, but in principle everything is possible.

Unfortunately, universities in England do not provide opportunities free training for foreign citizens. But this limitation can be bypassed, if you approach the paperwork correctly.

So, if you come to the UK under refugee status, you can count on government help, get a job and subsequently apply for permanent residence in England. This will provide an opportunity to enroll in government-funded places at a state educational institution..

Another option is to take advantage of all kinds of grants from international organizations, but for this you need to have extraordinary abilities and beat competitors in competitions or international olympiads.

Another option for free study abroad is student exchange programs, which give residents of the CIS the opportunity to enter a university even with a scholarship and free dormitory.

To study under an exchange program, you can independently go to the website of the educational institution and get comprehensive advice on the requirements for foreign students. You generally need English language proficiency confirmed by an IELTS 6.5 certificate. But if you plan to study English, you may be accepted with a lower IELTS score.

Studying a language abroad can be the beginning of further education, obtaining a master's degree or getting a job. through education is one of the most popular ways.

Education in Scotland is the path to a fulfilling life

Of all English universities, educational institutions in Scotland stand out. This country has extensive experience in creating an educational system aimed not only at acquiring knowledge, but also at self-education of students. It was in Scotland that four of the first six were discovered.

The number of foreign students in universities in this country reaches 45%, while only about 15% of young people study there from the UK. This indicates fairly flexible conditions for accepting citizens of other countries.

Scottish institutions are trying to stand out against the background of the British educational system; they believe their education system is better and of higher quality.

Universities in Scotland, as well as other English institutions, accepts students from 18 years of age. Therefore, after graduating from school in your country, you should go to a Foundation Course, open specifically for foreign students. The unified Scottish preparatory program for such applicants is called SIPF, it will cost about 10-11.5 thousand pounds. But its successful completion provides the opportunity to enter almost any university.
End preparatory course is marked by passing an exam (comprehensive final work in English) and an IELTS or TOEFL language test.

Requirements for applicants for admission to a university in Scotland

Each applicant must have a TOEFL certificate of 550 points or IELTS 5.5 points. Some universities require knowledge of English at a level of at least 600 or 6 points. For medical and legal specialties the level is even higher - no lower than 7 points.

The safest route for applicants is to complete a two-year degree at a Scottish college and then take a Foundation Course. Having received a certificate of completion of a secondary educational institution, you are allowed to take state entrance exams.

Features of admission

The admission procedure itself takes place through the nationwide British service UCAS. And start the procedure and collection necessary documents follows 1 year before the target date, approximately in September. You cannot send documents directly to selected universities.. It is on the UCAS system website (www.ucas.ac.uk) that you can download all the necessary documents, and the system itself will send them to educational institutions.

By the way, after registering on the site, the student has a personal page where he can track the process of reviewing applications.

The admission system to universities in Scotland is very flexible, as is the education system itself. The grading system is designed in such a way that the points obtained in subjects can be counted when moving from one institution to another.

The student is free to choose the disciplines he studies., even if they are not included in the main program. Some can receive a so-called double education (not to be confused with two higher!) “joint degrees”.

An applicant can enroll in a basic course ( undergraduate), and then continue training in a narrow specialization ( postgraduate). There are two programs at universities in Scotland:

• Master's degree (one year of study after 4 years higher education);
• Doctor's degree (three years of in-depth study of the chosen subject).

Be that as it may, experts recommend submit documents before January 15 for all specialties, although the deadline for foreigners is June 30. But many universities may run out of places by this time. If you are planning to obtain a medical specialty, then you need to submit documents before October 15.

By July, your applications are guaranteed to be reviewed and a decision will be made on whether to accept or reject your application.

Visa to Scotland - how to apply (detailed video)

Scottish visas are processed by British Visa Application Centres. Or rather, there is no separate visa to Scotland; there are visas to the UK, which means that you can move freely throughout the UK.
The types of visas are as follows:

• Original invitation from the university (CAS-Letter);
• Foreign passport and internal passport;
• 2 photos;
• Certificate of successful completion of English language tests;
• A document confirming enrollment in the selected university;
• Bank account statement with the availability of an amount sufficient to cover payment and living expenses;
• Copies of documents for property in the country of residence (if any);
• Certificate from the place of study in the country of residence;
• Certificate of marriage or divorce (if any);
• Copies of children's birth certificates (if available).

When leaving a person under 18 years of age, a notarized permission from the parents is required.

Having received a visa, you can confidently move towards a new life. Upon completion of your studies, you will be able to find a job and obtain a work visa, and subsequently a residence permit in Scotland and throughout the UK.

Note that not all immigration methods require such small funds. In fact, you will need to pay for training, and not fabulous amounts of money will be pumped into the country’s economy.
Go for it, and you will succeed!

What are the features of studying in Scotland? To begin with, it is worth noting that the Scottish system is similar to the British education system. However, the Scots are confident that their education system is much better. Whether this is true or not will probably have to be judged by those who intend to study there or educate their children. We can only confidently cite the following generally accepted facts and advantages of Scottish education.

Benefits of education in Scotland

• Scottish diplomas are recognized in all countries of the world;
• high quality of education;
• in teaching a number of specialties: the oil and gas industry, engineering, information technology and various applied sciences, Scottish universities are among the top leaders;
• affordable cost of studying and living in the country;
• high quality of language teaching in linguistic courses.

If we talk objectively, then there are still differences in the Scottish education system compared to the British education program. They are noticeable already from primary school, which lasts up to 12 years. At the end of primary school, children take tests and enter secondary school, where education lasts another 3 years. Next comes admission to colleges and universities. The student himself chooses what to do: study for another 2 years in high school to receive a certificate of higher education, or at the age of 15, after passing the exams, enter one of the country’s colleges.

If, nevertheless, the student decides to graduate from higher secondary school, then with the received certificate he will be able to subsequently enter any university in the country. Students from the CIS countries or from other countries will also need an appropriate certificate for admission. In addition, the applicant must be fluent in English. The total TOEFL test score must be at least 550 or 5.5 on the IELTS test program. And for admission to medical and legal specialties, at least 600-700 points or, respectively, 6-7 points on IELTS.

Language courses in Scotland

To learn the language perfectly, it is recommended to take national linguistic courses. The learning result will exceed your expectations, since great attention is paid to the quality of language teaching. The Education Department maintains strict control over the effectiveness of training in these courses not only for local residents, but also for foreign citizens.

Going to College in Scotland

Another optimal and best option for enrolling in a university is enrolling in a college. Upon graduation from college, you will learn the characteristics of local educational programs, learn the language more thoroughly, as a result of which you will have a number of advantages when entering, compared to other foreign students. The advantage of studying at college is that after graduation you can confidently enter any university. Without any problems, you will be immediately enrolled in the second or third year of your chosen specialty. This is possible due to the fact that the leadership of universities and colleges made an agreement in advance on the possibility of entering universities after graduating from college, bypassing 1-2 years of study.

After graduating from a university or institute, a student can continue his studies to obtain a master's or doctorate degree. To obtain a master's degree you need to study for a year, and for a doctorate – 3 years.

Features of educational programs at Scottish universities

The peculiarities of educational programs in Scottish universities are that they have flexible teaching schemes. Students, in addition to the subjects that should be taken according to the program, can choose any subjects from parallel training programs. During their studies, special attention is paid to practical training, as a result of which students develop practical work skills.

The success of training is determined by the small number of students in groups, the multinational composition of students and the highly qualified teachers. The process of completing and sending the necessary documents to universities in Scotland should be undertaken in advance, approximately 1-2 years before admission.

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 basic 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 on the basis language center Regent, 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 the 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 more 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 in recognized educational institutions 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.
Tuition fees at Scottish universities are available to 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 historical 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 adapt to life as soon as possible. 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:

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 for versatile 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 meets the most high standards and is known 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.

Long history of existence, worldwide recognition and positive reviews 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 holiday. 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.

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