Education in the UK is becoming more localised. Even if parents are opting for boarding schools over day due to the more inclusive and holistic nature of the curriculum, they are choosing schools that are nearby. This means that parents can still very much be part of the child’s daily life and maintain a hands-on approach to their children’s education.
At the same time as this localisation of education for UK-based families, the last ten years has seen the education sector experience globalisation. Franchises established by some of Britain’s leading independent schools enable international families looking for a British style of education, to enjoy this in their home countries. Although these institutions follow a similar curriculum to the British guidelines, the institutions do not nurture the cultural literacy that comes from attending a school in the UK itself.
UK in demand
Recognising the UK’s position as one of the global leaders in education, the growth of the middle classes around the world has provided a steep rise in the number of applications to UK independent schools. This growing competition both between schools and within a school itself, means it is essential that students maximise their time at an institution. To ensure their future success, an individual now needs not only first-class academic results, but a diverse collection of interests and skills, as well as a broad network.
How to monitor a child’s progress and development at a British school is a legitimate concern for international families that live overseas. It is evident that the difference between average performance and academic excellence can often be determined by the level of additional support in a child’s schooling, whether this comes from the family, a mentor, or a combination of both.
An academic mentor builds a relationship with the child based on openness, support and shared interests. As such, they have a considerable ability to check progress, support areas of weakness, motivate and push for academic excellence.
Active approach
Visiting the pupil regularly, the mentor takes a hands-on approach to guide them through subject choices, stimulate areas of interest and help develop effective study techniques. This ensures that the privileges of a private education are seized and maximised, whilst developing a mature approach to learning. In addition the mentor presses the importance of taking full advantage of all extra-curricular and non-curricular pursuits, to inspire broad interests and a sense of curiosity.
For international students, a mentoring programme provides guidance to the parents on how best to support their child within the British independent school system. Combining mentorship with guardianship can enhance this service further by enabling the parents to feel assured that there is a highly-skilled team based in the UK, coupled with a home-stay family close to the school, that collectively provide a support structure for their child.
