United Kingdom

Get ready for vibrant metropolises, unique landscapes and tea time during your exchange in Great Britain!

The British love their island, are very hospitable and will welcome you with open arms. It doesn't matter whether you're exploring the exciting streets of London, enjoying the sea breeze on the coast or admiring the breathtaking landscapes. The diversity in nature as well as social environments are one of a kind and will give an unforgettable experience!

Experience one of our exchange students favourite places in the world:

  • Live in one of the cosmopolitan cities or in the pretty countryside
  • Meet the local English and Scottish folk
  • Experience how schools in the UK are different to those in South Africa
  • Feel secure with local support always available

Experience a true warm welcome with a caring host family and attend school alongside local students. The ultimate cultural experience and a great investment in your future!
 

  • Age: between 14 and 18 years
  • Minimum grade: C grade in English and Maths at GCSE levels or equivalent
  • Academic level: Students are required to have a minimum overall academic record of a 60% average in the last three years.
  • Language: English
  • Vaccinations/Immunisations: As of now, there are no specific vaccination/immunisation requirements.
  • Status: Learner at a high school
  • Mindset: Curious, openminded and keen to immerse yourself in a life changing experience!

DurationStart ProgramDeadline Application
TrimesterAugust 202301 April 2023
 January 202415 September 2023
SemesterAugust 202301 April 2023
 January 202415 September 2023
Academic YearAugust 202301 April 2023

 

According to your profile and program availability, you will be placed in either England or Scotland.

There is also a Select Program available where you will be able to choose between a list of different colleges around England and Scotland. Details around this program will be sent on request. 

You will attend a local high school on the same basis as local students. You will have the
same obligations with regards to attendance, submitting homework, and taking exams and so on as local students.You will have the opportunity to get involved in school clubs, groups and activities.

Schools in England 
Most English students study 9-11 subjects at GCSE, with a combination of compulsory and optional subjects. Students aged 16+ go on to study A-levels at school or college, or undertake vocational training. Students usually study A–level courses, studying three or four subjects. There are no compulsory subjects at A-level.

Schools in Scotland
The primary and secondary school system in Scotland is similar to that in England, with
students achieving National 4 and 5 qualifications by the age of 16. Students aged 16+ in Scotland study a combination of Highers and Advanced Highers, usually studying four or five subjects. 

What is college?
If you are a part of the full year High School program in the UK and are aged 16-18, you will be placed in a college. Colleges are essentially the same as high schools, specifically for students aged 16-18, and pupils can choose from a wide range of subjects as they gain their AS and A Level qualifications.

Subject choices: 
Subjects in the UK will usually study a combination of compulsory and optional subjects. It is not always possible to guarantee that you will be able to study a particular subject. 
 

Our local partner makes sure host families are carefully selected and prepared for the arrival of an international student. Host families will involve you in family activities and help you settle in, especially during the first period of your experience. 

GROW Abroad will provide you with all the necessary information and documents needed. We will guide you through the paper jungle and make sure you leave prepared. We also organise a meeting with your parents to make sure they are all up to date. 

There is an optional welcome camp arranged by our partner before the program begins. This welcome camp will be an additional cost. In addition to this, all students will be invited to and must attend an orientation meeting arranged by their Local Support Coordinator shortly after arrival.

You will have your own local support coordinator who will live in close proximity to you. Your local coordinator will make sure you are well supported during your time in the UK, 

Depending on the period you are in the UK and the location you are placed, you may be given the opportunity to travel with your host family or to join an organised multi-day tour  with the ‘partner organisation’. You will be expected to pay your own way.

  • Trimester (3 months): from £8,300
  • Semester (6 months): from £9,800
  • Academic year (12 months): from £20,000

Insurance is mandatory and not included in the program fees. You will need insurance that covers health, accidents and third party liabilities. 

We will advise you about which visa you need, this will be dependent on your length of stay. We will support you with all the documents you need to apply for your visa. 

The application process consists of the following steps:

  1. Apply by clicking the “Enquire Now” button above or send an email to highschool@growabroad.co.za
  2. Personal interview and acceptance
  3. Preparation 
  4. Orientation program for students and parents to prepare for your experience

14 - 18 years

2 -10 months

Host family

Local school

English

From £8,300

Application Process

Other Countries