INTERNATIONAL STUDY OPTIONS
For many years, St John’s has provided a wide range of flexible study options for international students including:
Short Course (ages 9-16)
Immersion (full inclusion in mainstream school from age 9-16)
Pathway to GCSE Programme (ages 14-16)
Most importantly, we aim to help students realise their potential, whether they are staying with us for one term or for the whole of their school life.
An intensive curriculum combined with first-class care and supervision will provide the best linguistic, academic, cultural and social preparation for admission to, and success in, UK schools and universities.
We welcome students from all corners of the globe and regularly have students from more than 10 different countries in our boarding house including Spain, China, Kazakhstan, France, Russia, Chile, Ecuador and South Africa.
Not only do we have a large number of students from overseas, we are also part of the wider organisation of International Education Systems (IES), whose mission is to provide education with an international perspective. Our links with our IES and SEK sister schools mean that we are a truly international community.
IMMERSION - AGES 9-16
On arrival at St John’s, all students are assessed on their four language skills according to the CEFR (Common European Framework – A1 to C2) by our fully qualified ESL teachers. This allows the ESL Department to identify the student’s strengths in English and where they may need additional support.
When following the full immersion curriculum, students have a minimum of 5 lessons of dedicated ESL lessons, whilst following the British curriculum timetable with First Language English pupils. Students study a wide range of subjects, and have the option (depending on ability) of taking Cambridge English qualifications in KET/PET or FCE.
PATHWAY
At ages 14-16 pupils may opt for the more demanding Pathway Programme which provides a greater focus on English Language skills and incorporates up to 5 IGCSEs taken within one year. Students who choose to take the Pathway Programme need to be of a B1 (minimum) level of English.
Students have at least 12 lessons of EAL per week and can study up to 5 IGCSES including English/Maths/Science/Geography/Home Language.
During the year students are fully supported by the ESL Department with a dedicated Academic Tutor.
SHORT COURSE (AGE 9-16)
Short Course students can attend St John’s for any length of time that fits into their schooling in their home country.
During their time at the school they will be immersed in a full curriculum that introduces them to British culture and teaching methodology, as well as experiencing life in a supportive boarding community. There will be a minimum of 10 EAL lessons per week with access to a dedicated Academic Tutor.
There is a strong enrichment programme, including the possibility of performing in plays and pantomimes, playing British sports such as rugby, netball and rounders, as well as peripatetic music lessons, horse riding and other local cultural experiences. Short Course students also have the possibility of moving into the Pathway Programme or Full Immersion.
