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 further education colleges. There is also a unified Scottish international preparatory program SIFP, the successful completion of which gives graduates the opportunity to enroll in almost any university in Scotland.

The admission procedure to 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.

The entire system of Scottish education can be described as flexible, because from an early age the child has a choice in everything regarding the number of years to gain knowledge, study disciplines and specialties, directions, etc. There are a countless number of secondary and higher institutions in the country, where they receive high-quality knowledge and certification documents of the European level, which are welcomed by the majority of employers. The system can be classified into several mandatory stages:

• Preschool preparation (with the development of basic school knowledge)
• Junior school where students will spend 7 years of their childhood
• Secondary educational institution - a school where you can earn, subject to successful completion of the course of study, a certificate for admission to specialized educational institutions
• Secondary school with in-depth preparation for Higher (examination required for admission to universities)
• A specialized institution that provides students with excellent specialized training and the possibility of future admission to a huge number of local higher educational institutions
• Higher educational institutions that teach subjects in all areas of science
• Postgraduate education where you can improve your skills and deepen your subject knowledge

We will talk about all the many levels and variations of study in Scotland below.

Early childhood education in Scotland

There is no kindergarten, in the standard sense, in this state. But there are preparatory courses where kids are taught perseverance and basic knowledge in various sciences and manifestations of creative activity. They attend such establishments from 3 to 5 years old.

Primary and secondary education

It takes students 7 years to complete primary school in Scotland (school age ranges from 5 to 12 years), which is unusual for Russians. The marking system here is similar to the Russian one, only the designation is not digital, but alphabetic (A-5, E-1). Knowledge control is carried out using tests on knowledge of basic sciences for junior grades. At the age of 11-12, schoolchildren move to secondary school, where they have to study for 4 to 6 years. The first four years are the mandatory minimum required for everyone. It is at this time that you need to pass examinations, after which certificates of secondary education are issued. 15-year-old students are divided into two groups - those who have chosen a specialized education, and those who need to pass the Higher examination tasks for admission to universities.

From 16 to 18 years of age, schoolchildren “absorb” knowledge that will be useful for successfully passing 5-6 examination papers and obtaining the long-awaited and honorable “higher certificate” - it will be required when entering Scottish Higher Educational Institutions. At the end of the so-called “sixth year” of study, a certificate of certification is issued, which is favorably regarded by all higher education institutions in the United Kingdom.

Private schools

Secondary education in Scotland is free for citizens of the country (sponsored by the Department and numerous educational councils). But there are a number of non-state schools where both local residents and foreigners can study intensive general education methods. Such institutions include the Edinburgh School, intended for boys, and the school named after. St. George, which accepts only girls within its walls. The distinctive features of these educational institutions include:

• A rich subject study program
• Development and intensive realization of creative potential in children
• Almost round-the-clock daily activity, including a variety of sightseeing and thematic excursions, numerous clubs, classes, courses
• Personal education, which in the future becomes a powerful basis for the characters of students

Students here spend their free time from studying self-improvement in various areas. General education and creative clubs, sports sections - all classes are conducted to maximize the potential and abilities of each student.

Education for children and teenagers during holidays in Scotland

Two schools (Mary Erskine and St. Leonard) provide a vacation educational and entertainment course for children. Length of stay - from two seven days to a whole month. During this time, schoolchildren can expect a schedule full of excursions and interesting activities. During their vacation, children get acquainted with the culture and sights of picturesque Scotland, study English in depth, and communicate with peers. At the end of studying the program, final tests are always carried out, after successful completion of which a certification document is issued. The cost of studying in Scotland under this program depends on the type and duration of residence in the country and ranges from 200 to 500 thousand rubles per month. There is a unique chance for your child to move into a family or residence.

Professional education

There are 43 specialized institutions successfully operating in the state, many of which cooperate with universities. This means that each student, if desired, can continue to receive a specialized education at Higher Educational Institutions - Universities after receiving a special college education, and he will have a shortened course (admission immediately to the 2nd or even 3rd year of study). The education system in Scotland is similar to the Russian one (in colleges) - you can choose one of many areas and study it intensively for several years. After the 1st year of study, a Higher National Certificate is issued, and after the second - a diploma. The requirements for students in Scottish educational institutions are high, which is why the documents they issue are valued by employers in well-known companies around the world.

Higher education in Scotland

Further study programs after secondary school or college in Scotland are flexible, i.e. it is possible to choose the form of training and courses (even individual programs are compiled). Basic training takes 4 years, after which the student is awarded a bachelor's degree. The next year is spent completing a bachelor's degree with honors. By the way, some universities provide an industrial form of training, which involves intensive practice, which is especially valued by many employers as a kind of work experience.

The student population in Scotland is multinational. The majority of students here are local residents, as well as visitors from the UK, but there are also a lot of foreigners (about 10-15%). Admission conditions for foreign citizens are democratic - college and school diplomas are often accepted as part of the entrance documents. International students need to take Foundation or A-Level courses - most colleges offer these programs. Some universities are also ready to provide their own training courses, but further admission to this institution is often a prerequisite.

Higher education programs are always paid, both for Scottish citizens and for foreigners. Some universities offer local residents an educational course on deferred payment, i.e. the student will pay for his studies after graduation if his salary is above 21 thousand pounds (per year). If the bachelor's salary is lower, then you will not have to pay for your studies. By doing this, Universities emphasize their “status” and the quality of education (after all, this is what is valued by the largest companies).

Postgraduate education

In Scotland, it is possible to take an intensive course to upgrade your degree to a Master in a year - this is an excellent solution for urgently improving your qualifications. For those wishing to gain in-depth knowledge, a three-year course is offered, upon completion of which a doctorate degree is awarded.

There are several reasons.

Unique nature. High giant mountains, lakes, untouched forests, endless fields and cliffs, from which a picturesque view of the sea opens, amaze you with their beauty to the core.

Mild climate. There are no sudden weather changes in Scotland, so foreigners feel quite comfortable here.

Increased level of hospitality. The Scots are very welcoming people. This is manifested in the attention of teachers to students, the care of curators for children and the attitude of ordinary citizens towards foreigners. They are ready to reveal all the best facets of their country to visitors.

Special atmosphere. For those who prefer peaceful tranquility and serene solitude, Scotland is the best choice. Residents were able to preserve their unique national flavor and identity here. Ancient castles and palaces, unusual streets create an unrealistically fabulous atmosphere.

English courses in Scotland for students and adults

Basic. Aimed at developing 4 main language aspects - listening, grammar, reading and speaking. Based on the intensity of classes, there are two types of courses - Vacation and General English. The first involves 20 English lessons per week, the second - 27.

Intensive. Includes 35 lessons per week. Eight of them are aimed at developing special skills. This could be learning English for business or the political sphere.

Preparation for exams. At the end of this course, students successfully pass the FCE, CAE and CPE tests. The training lasts at least 10 weeks.

Training courses in Scotland for children

Vacation programs in the country are available for ruffed grouse aged 8 to 17 years. The standard course of study includes 20 English lessons per week. The Medieval Scotland program also provides an introduction to the history and traditions of the country.

The Scots consider their education (both secondary and higher education) better than English and strive to stand out from the general British system. Differences appear in elementary school. Children in Scottish schools study for seven years rather than six years and move on to secondary school at the age of 12.

From 5 to 12 years old, children attend primary school ( primary school At the age of 12 they go to secondary school ( secondary school). At the age of 15, schoolchildren take exams for a general certificate of secondary education. Scottish Certificate of Education (SCE Standard Grade), corresponding to English GCSE. After this, the student can either move to a further education college or continue studying at school to obtain 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 enter universities.

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

Some schools provide the opportunity to take exams directly to obtain the English A-level. Most schools for older children

There are 43 colleges of special or further education in Scotland (similar to Russian technical schools). They offer academic and vocational qualifications in most subjects, from entry level to higher education diploma. 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 here you can get Higher National Certificate, and students who have studied for two years become owners Higher Education Diploma.

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

The usual duration of study at a university is bachelor degree- 4 years. The final year gives students the opportunity to obtain a Bachelor with Honors degree. The first two years they study a wide range of basic subjects, and then devote another two years to special disciplines in the chosen profile.

Basic course at a Scottish university (undergraduate) lasts 4 years. Local universities are characterized by flexibility in their curricula. 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 offer so-called (sandwich courses) aimed at gaining practical work experience while studying.

Entrance requirements to universities in Scotland

Entry requirements are quite high. Typically the baseline for applicants is 550 points. TOEFL or 5.5 points IELTS. Some university departments require a score of at least 600 or 6 points. And medical and law faculties require at least 7 points. The most reliable way to enter a Scottish university is to study for the final two years at a Scottish school or college and complete the program Foundation Course. These courses prepare international students for the Scottish Certificate of Secondary Education. At the end of the program, students take state exams required for admission to universities.

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

In order to enter a Scottish university, you need to know not just well, but very well English. We recommend brushing up on language courses in Scotland itself. Many language centers are part of the Scottish Consortium for the Teaching of English ( SELTIC), monitoring the quality of teaching. Local schools offer a variety of options from general English to super intensive, exam preparation and university entrance.

The system of admission to higher education institutions in Scotland as a foundation course ( undergraduate), and for those wishing to narrowly specialize in a particular field of knowledge (postgraduate), is as flexible as the entire higher education system. Education structure allows students to receive a grade system that will count towards them when moving from one educational institution to another. If a student wants to change faculty or university, then grades are counted in accordance with the conditions of the chosen educational institution.

Postgraduate education Available to all graduates from recognized educational institutions around the world. In Scottish universities there is an intensive one-year program for the Master's degree and a three-year advanced program for the Doctor's degree.

Scotland is a country of ancient traditions and the latest scientific and technological achievements. Studying here is prestigious and promising!

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 think objectively, 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 study the features 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 in college is that after graduation you can confidently enter any university. You will be enrolled immediately into the second or third year of your chosen specialty without any problems. 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.