How can a British boarding school help a child’s English?

Unsurprisingly, clients often ask how a British boarding school can help a child’s English, particularly if they are concerned their child’s grasp of the language could hold them back academically.

Admittedly, English is a quirky language, so expecting anyone who has only been learning it for a couple of years to immediately understand idioms such as to “learn something by heart”, “put their thinking cap on” or “rack their brain” is quite a “tall order”!

Luckily, nearly every UK boarding school has a dedicated English as a Foreign/Additional Language (EFL/EAL) department to support overseas pupils with their English alongside the regular timetable. The UK schools test the current (written and spoken) English level of the student before offering a place, so they can accurately gauge how much additional assistance, if any, will be required. They then help with the vocabulary necessary for certain academic subjects such as Maths and Science, as well as with effective essay-writing techniques for essay-heavy subjects such as the humanities. 

EFL/EAL support is included in the international boarding fee at some schools, whereas others charge for it as an extra. This can range from £365 up to £1,675 per term – this last figure covering six lessons a week. Some British boarding schools, such as Taunton School and The King’s School, even have dedicated international schools where overseas pupils receive intense support with their English in very small class sizes, often leading to excellent GCSE results. 

As for those idioms, immersion in the boarding community with British students and other internationals for whom English is the lingua franca will soon “bring them up to speed”.

Gina takes into consideration a child’s level of English when their family's consultancy journey begins, so she can advise on which educational setting will suit the student and the family’s budget. Do contact her to find out more.