Secondary Education
Secondary Education
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Studying abroad at secondary level isn't just changing schools. It's a change of language, pace, social circle, and perspective on the future. For many families, it's a way out of a system where their child didn't fit the mould. For others, it's a chance to give what isn't available at home: a bilingual environment, international programmes, access to world‑class universities. We work with twelve countries. The UK, Ireland, the USA, Canada, Switzerland, Australia, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Austria, and Portugal. Each has its own educational philosophy, requirements, and opportunities. |
Day School or Boarding School: Two Formats, Two Approaches
In a day school, the child attends classes during the day and returns home or to a host family in the evening. This format offers more freedom, daily language practice, and contact with local culture outside the campus. It's more often chosen for younger children or when the family moves with the child.
Full boarding. Study, sport, meals, rest, and social time — everything takes place on the school campus. The child is immersed in the environment 24/7, without the chance to fall back on their native language or familiar habits. This is the most effective way to achieve full immersion. It suits teenagers who are ready for independent living and want to make the most of their time abroad.
The language of instruction in most schools is English. But there are also bilingual programmes. In Switzerland, for example, you can study in both English and French at the same time. In Germany — in English and German. This is a rare opportunity to receive an education in two languages without having to make a separate effort.
How Much Does It Cost
Annual tuition with accommodation is one of the main concerns for families. Costs vary widely. It depends on the country, the prestige of the school, the type of accommodation, and additional options.
| Country | Currency | Annual range (in local currency) | Approx. in USD |
|---|---|---|---|
| United Kingdom | GBP (£) | £50,000 – £65,000 | $63,500 – $82,500 |
| United States | USD ($) | $55,000 – $100,000 | $55,000 – $100,000 |
| Switzerland | CHF | CHF 65,000 – CHF 150,000 | $74,750 – $172,500 |
| Spain | EUR (€) | €7,400 – €25,600 | $8,100 – $28,200 |
| Germany | EUR (€) | €40,000 – €48,000 | $44,000 – $52,800 |
| France | EUR (€) | €16,000 – €28,000 | $17,600 – $30,800 |
| Austria | EUR (€) | €43,000 – €70,000 | $47,300 – $77,000 |
| Ireland | EUR (€) | €28,000 – €50,000 | $30,800 – $55,000 |
| Italy | EUR (€) | €35,000 – €55,000 | $38,500 – $60,500 |
| Canada | CAD (C$) | CAD 45,000 – CAD 80,000 | $32,900 – $58,400 |
| Australia | AUD (A$) | AUD 50,000 – AUD 80,000 | $32,500 – $52,000 |
The base cost usually includes tuition, accommodation (in a residence or with a host family), meals, and extracurricular activities. Language tests, insurance, visa fees, flights, and extra tutoring are paid separately. These can add 10–30% to the annual budget, depending on individual needs.
How We Help: From Idea to Enrolment
- We support families at every stage. We start by helping you clarify your goals. What matters most — academic rigour, creative development, a sports focus, or a smooth transition? Without a clear answer, choosing a school is a guessing game.
- We assess the current language level, academic performance, and readiness for independent living. We assess where the child can apply now and where they could apply after six months of focused preparation.
- We select schools. Not a list of a hundred options that only confuses, but a shortlist of schools that genuinely match the child's profile, age, and budget.
- We handle the documents. Some schools only need grades and references. Others ask for a motivation letter, portfolio, or interview. We double‑check to make sure nothing is missed, delayed, or done incorrectly.
- We help with tests — IELTS, TOEFL, SSAT, SAT, GRE, GMAT. If preparation is needed, we arrange tutoring and create a personalised study plan.
- We fill in forms, submit documents, and stay in touch with admissions offices. The process usually takes six months to a year — and we're there until the offer letter arrives.
- Additional services: we organise school visits, arrange guardianship, and help with visas and international payments.
At What Age to Start
The schools in our catalogue accept children from age 3 to 18. The right starting point depends not just on age but on the child's readiness for a new environment.
For younger children (ages 7–11), boarding schools with a smooth transition and play‑based learning are often chosen. For teenagers (12–16) — schools with academic preparation and subject choice. For senior students (16–18) — A‑Levels, IB, or the American High School Diploma, which lead to university.
The earlier you start, the more options you'll have. The best schools fill places a year to eighteen months in advance. Especially for boarding programmes.
Where to Start
The first step isn't choosing a country — it's understanding what your child and family need.
What's their language level? What's their academic background? Are they ready to live independently? What's your budget? What matters more — climate, culture, language environment, or career prospects?
Once you have clear answers, the choice becomes much clearer.
We help you find a school that fits your child's personality, a programme that plays to their strengths, and an environment that meets their expectations.
If you're considering education abroad and don't know where to start — just get in touch. We'll tell you which schools are accepting applications for the coming academic year, how the systems differ, what the real costs are, and what deadlines to aim for.