Buckswood School strives to educate its students so that they can become better citizens of the world who can fully understand themselves and discover their abilities, skills and talents and use them to build future careers. The school offers a personalized approach to education, developing and providing academic pathways that lead to a wide range of career choices, and family spirit and values provide support at all stages of the educational journey.
The A-level, IB, university foundation course in soccer studies, and various summer course options that match a student's aptitude and learning style are a proven stepping stone to further entry and study at university in both the UK and abroad.
Learning languages at Buckswood is about much more than building vocabulary. With native teachers and international students, languages at Buckswood are about words, culture, food, people and understanding. All students in the school, starting in junior high, learn 3 languages:
French,
Spanish,
Mandarin (Chinese).
Weekly on Saturday mornings, international students learn their native language and a few foreign languages of their choice:
Italian,
Japanese,
French,
German,
Chinese,
Spanish,
Turkish,
Cantonese,
Latin,
Portuguese,
Arabic,
Farsi,
Serbian,
Hungarian.
10-week courses are organized for beginners in any of these languages for Sixth Form students to supplement their UCAS applications, adding to the benefits.
The Buckswood campus is constantly evolving: over the past few years, the school has added a professional gym with all the necessary athletic equipment, a yacht and an entertainment center located in a green, picturesque location. There are also plans to install a new pool complex and 4G Astroturf within the next few years. Every Buckswood student actively participates in sporting activities - all facilities are available for use year-round, regardless of the weather.
Buckswood is proud to be ranked 9th in the UK for IB results, a center of excellence for small communities studying in an internationally recognized program. The IB is ideal for international students ages 16-18, preparing them for their desired universities.
The IB requires a broader range of 6 subjects to study: of which 3 are at the higher level, 3 at the basic level + learning an additional foreign language. IB is presented in 6 areas:
Math,
Arts,
Sciences,
Individuals and Society,
English Language and Literature,
Foreign Language Studies.
The program is academically challenging and requires students to take 3 additional courses:
Theory of Knowledge (TOK),
Creativity, Activism, Service (CAS),
Extended Essay Writing (4,000 words or more).
Completion of CAS is optional, but it is required for the full IB diploma. Graduates receive grades from 1-7 on the final exam, where 7 is the highest. Additional points are awarded to students for TOC courses and essay writing.
At Buckswood, IB students can participate in the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, in which they travel to the English countryside or engage in charitable activities to further their personal development, earning additional UCAS points.
The IB is a popular choice among international students because the degree has a reputation for rigorous assessment, giving holders access to the world's leading universities in more than 100 countries. At Buckswood, the IB program has been taught for over 6 years: the school prides itself on the fact that high school students achieve a 99% pass rate (average of 33), allowing it to be chosen from the top universities.
For centuries English has been the business and diplomatic language of the world, and English is the key to successful industrial trade and political relations. Studying at Buckswood offers students not only exceptional IELTS, PETS, KETS and Cambridge scores, but also full immersion into English culture, which is essential in a world where perfect English language proficiency and a large vocabulary are essential. All Buckswood teachers are ESOL-educated, so students receive support in all aspects of the curriculum, ensuring that every student reaches their potential.
Buckswood summer camp invites international students aged 8-17 to learn English and have a fun time. English courses are available for all levels of proficiency. Pre-tests are administered to place students into groups - from absolute beginner A1 to A2 level, pre-intermediate B1 to advanced C1, to proficient C2. There are about 20 hours of lessons each week.
Soccer is the most popular form of active summer leisure. Children learn to work as a team, be responsible, make quick decisions. Soccer in Buckswood is conducted by professional coaches: classes include a meal plan, work with a psychologist, and theoretical knowledge. Children educate on Buckswood Soccer Academy fields, developing their daily fitness, agility and endurance, learning techniques and kicks:
Stopping the ball with their feet,
Stopping the ball in the air,
Dribbling,
Stopping the ball in the air, Dribbling,
Throwing the ball,
Scoring,
Running,
Squatting and other physical activities/exercises.
At the end of the course, all students receive a certificate, personal report and coach's recommendations on how to improve their sports skills.
Staying in the summer camp gives children the opportunity to relax, spend time with benefit and do their favorite thing.
Studying English implies working through the existing knowledge, improving speaking skills, kids learn to think about the chosen topics, to build a full-fledged communication with native speakers, to develop their thinking. Classes are held in a relaxed atmosphere and take place in the form of a game.
Students will improve their English, gain confidence and be effectively prepared to study abroad in English-speaking programs. Classes are usually held in the morning. The duration of studies - from 1 week; about 20 lessons weekly.
Before the education all students pass preliminary oral and written tests, so that the distribution in groups is more harmonious. The curriculum includes lectures and seminars, thematic meetings, and educational excursions.
Students of the course not only learn the English language, but may also master the basics of acting. In the junior high school, students are offered an elementary theater education course. A key focus of the program is the opportunity to learn both the practical and theoretical side of drama in order to become successful in their chosen field and achieve meaningful results. Students begin their studies to approach the internationally recognized LAMDA with performing arts opportunities and school competitions. The curriculum includes:
Image Development,
Monologues,
Practicing skills learned,
Working through posture, gestures and voice,
Critiques.
Study trips are included in the programme curriculum. GCSE Drama Year 2 and 4 students visit London to take part in a drama workshop at Pineapple Studios: the workshop is led by professional actor Hugh Ross. They will also visit the Fortune Theatre in Covent Garden to see a production of The Woman in Black, which the Year 2 students have been studying.
The A-Level program provides study options that are designed to match students' abilities and priorities, are an excellent choice for studying at international universities in Britain, other EU countries, Canada and the USA.
A-Level is the traditional route to British universities. Students choose 3-4 subjects, study them at an advanced level for two years, take exams at the end of the course, and earn as many UCAS points as possible to get into top universities.
Buckswood offers a wide range of A-Level courses - wider than many much larger schools. The options on offer will help you choose the right one to meet the university's admission requirements. When joining the A-Level program, students are encouraged to choose subjects from 4 blocks of options. All students choose 3 Core A levels from option blocks 1-3 + there is the option to add a 4th from option block 4. International students take English for Academic Purposes (EAP) lessons in block 4 in preparation for IELTS and A-level exams in their native language (if possible).
It is important that students choose the topics that are a priority for them and that they do better, since it will not be possible to make any further adjustments to the syllabus. The school encourages all prospective students to think carefully about their choices before they begin their studies.
Systematic testing with MOCK exams, past assignments are mandatory elements in the A-Level strategy. In addition to daily contact with teachers and form tutors, all A-Level students attend extra classes where they can discuss aspects of their school life and academic achievements. During the discussions, students reflect on their learning and set goals to improve their academic performance. This reflective approach to learning plays an important role in social and educational development.
Students will live and immerse themselves in English from day one in an intensive, educational environment, where everything is geared toward holistic development of social and academic life. Students will improve their listening comprehension of English, learn to read and analyze what they read, and improve their speaking skills with teachers, coaches, and peers. Immersion in English culture, history and traditions will help to significantly expand students' vocabulary.
Summer courses are available for students with any level of English.
In their free time students enjoy their favorite kind of outdoor activities - Buckswood offers an extremely wide range of activities and sports development. The 42-acre campus features a state-of-the-art Riding Center with stables, jockey room, hayrides, and an impressive horse education arena.
The Center has 8 horses that are great for beginners and more experienced riders alike. Riding academy students are offered the opportunity to take lessons in horse education and care. All the knowledge and skills learned can lead to various levels of certification offered by the British Horse Society.
As part of the riding program, students learn to be responsible for the welfare of the horses: they are trusted to feed, care for and clean them themselves. There are 3 hours of education per week (3 x 1 session) on Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays. Classes are suitable for all levels.
You learn English every day at the summer camp - at least 3 hours of lessons. Teachers with great experience use different methods that allow students to speak English quickly and effectively: role games, different practical tasks, communication and discussions. A summer camp allows you to immerse yourself in British culture, learn more about British history, make new friends and have lots of unforgettable experiences.
Buckswood Golf Academy strives to turn young golfers into professional golfers who play at the highest level. The Academy is staffed by highly qualified and experienced golf professionals and coaches - a great advantage.
The schedule includes 7 hours of golf practice during the week, with no matches or tournaments. The program is divided into 3 days, Tuesday, Wednesday and Sunday, and each day will have a different focus:
Tuesdays consist of gym and psychology classes,
Wednesday consists of technical classes and coaching,
Sundays are devoted to golf: students practice going nine holes.
The Golf Academy has two teams from the school: Select and Development. This is to ensure that each golfer receives the attention to detail necessary for effective progress. Both teams will be provided with the development of consistent progress, will work on different aspects of their game that they need to improve.
The Academy provides innovative golf coaching for players of all levels and abilities with PGA professionals and a wide range of amenities, including:
18-hole Grass Course,
Pitch and Putt course,
Driving Range,
Indoor Swing Center,
On-site golf simulator.
Academy players play many matches against local schools in Sussex and Kent, taking part in the following tournaments:
ISGA Match Play Tournament,
ISGA Scottish Open,
Sussex Junior Open Championship.
The academy is located in the back of the driving range: it's an ideal place to work on all areas from 100 yards and inside, including bunkers. The Driving Range has 40 bays, 20 of which are covered and lighted for all-weather use. Students get unlimited balls during their lessons. There are plenty of greens and tees that extend slightly up the 250-yard length, and range mirrors help students keep track of their position.
The school offers two options for students, allowing both UK students and international boarding students to access the GCSE course. This is an intensive program designed to prepare international students for entry into the Sixth Form and meets the requirements of international education systems.
The one-year GCSE program is designed to prepare students for the Sixth Form (English Level A or B) and meets the requirements of the international education systems. Students with a higher level of English will be recommended to study option A, while choosing their native language as an additional GCSE. Course subjects:
Mathematics,
Science,
Geography,
Business,
Mother tongue (extra)
Games.
In addition to the academic programme, students are provided with a range of adjustment activities and teacher support.
The 2-year GCSE programme starts on Form IV (Year 10) and consists of 6 core subjects which are compulsory + 3 more subjects which are prioritised and required for future specialisation. All students in the 2-year GCSE programme are required to study 6 core subjects:
English Language,
English Literature,
Mathematics,
Science,
Foreign language (French, Chinese, Spanish).
High school students who need additional support will have English classes and be able to receive certification in ICT in their sophomore year. Non-native English students are formed into study groups separate from native speakers.
All students must also select an additional 3 courses divided into 3 blocks of options. These include:
Foreign Languages (French, Spanish, Mandarin),
Graphics,
Art,
History,
ICT,
Global Citizenship,
Physical Education,
Business Studies,
Supplemental Studies,
Media Studies,
Religious Studies.
Triple Science is available as an option for beginners, which will lead to them gaining 3 different GCSE science qualifications along with the main double Science award. Non-native English speaking students can also continue to learn their own language - lessons are arranged for them outside of the regular curriculum.
In the second year, there are examinations in May and June which determine students' final results for each of the GCSE courses studied. Each student will be assessed regularly over the two years - a system of weekly reports gives parents and students a clear indication of progress. A student is deemed to have passed GCSE if they get a minimum of 5 marks (grade A*-C), including English and Maths. Successful completion of GCSEs allows graduates to progress to A-Levels or International Baccalaureate at Sixtn Form Buckswood.
The ability to communicate confidently in English, both socially and professionally, is becoming increasingly important in today's globalized world. A large number of students from different countries come to Buckswood each year to learn language skills that will stay with them throughout their lives.
English is central to the education of many high school and college students. Prior to arrival, applicants are pre-tested so that teachers can recommend a course that is more suitable for their level. Students are assigned to courses and classes that match their abilities and complement other subjects. The school also offers a range of exam preparation courses and provides support in the form of tutorials for those who need it:
Additional English,
International Study Support.
In addition, all teachers and staff are encouraged to be aware of the needs of students for whom English is an additional language in order to create a supportive and effective learning environment.
The main objectives of the courses are:
Integration into junior high school with international learning support,
Dedicated English as a Second Language courses from Grade 3 and up,
Preparation for the Cambridge English exam (Key, Preliminary and First),
English IGCSE and English as a Second Language,
IELTS preparation for Sixth Formers and for university entrance.
The recreation program includes learning through participation in activities and enjoyment at summer camp. It consists of 2 one-day excursions (Wednesday, Sunday) and 2 half-day excursions (Tuesday, Saturday). The children visit places such as:
London,
Brighton,
Hastings,
Canterbury,
Windsor,
Seven Sisters Country Park.
A full range of activities and recreational activities are available on campus, which include:
Sports,
Arts and Crafts,
Drama,
Music.
In addition, there are exciting events every night in which all students participate, competing in various challenges and contests.
Studying English at a British boarding school is a great chance not only to improve your knowledge, but also to make lots of friends from other countries. There are two special courses that offer students aged 14-18 an opportunity to improve their English quickly and effectively in an academic setting. The courses take place over the course of one school year and are designed to develop all basic skills:
Reading,
Writing,
Speaking,
Grammar.
The courses are essential for GCSE, A-level or IB in the future. The school believes that the best way to achieve academic results at A or IB level is to have the right tools to achieve the best results, and the ability to communicate in English to a high degree is a factor in success. Combined with English language skills, the program develops the math and ICT skills needed to prepare for whatever course students want to take later.
For all Buckswood students, from freshman to champion, athletic facilities are open right on campus to stay fit, develop physically and be healthy - because a healthy body helps support a healthy mind. Buckswood Soccer Academy is a development center that was originally introduced in 2011 to provide high-quality coaching and support for ambitious young players who want to combine soccer and education.
Buckswood School participates in events at the highest level of English high school soccer, competing at both the county and international level, competing in competitions such as ISFA, ESFA and the County Cup. The Academy has teams in the following age groups:
Under 13s,
13-14 year olds,
15-16 year olds,
17-18 year olds,
18-19 years old.
Buckswood Soccer Academy provides high quality coaching and support to ambitious young players.
Summer courses invite kids to learn English and have a good time, full of sports and vivid impressions. You can join every week.
The program is aimed at the development of all necessary skills:
Speaking,
Reading,
Listening,
Writing,
Vocabulary development.
In addition, the students interact with native speakers, their peers, their teachers, have discussions, visit thematic excursions that enrich their speech and understanding.
Classes are organized in the morning and are held in an interesting and playful way, involving everybody. Teachers with wide experience of work with children have all necessary accreditations, teach pupils to speak and read correctly, analyze and correct mistakes. A summer English course will help you discover your academic potential, prepare you for entry to and study at your chosen British educational institution. Learning conversational English and school terminology will be the foundation for successful enrolment.
The Tennis Academy welcomes high school students of all skill levels. The sports course helps kids develop speed, strength, power and overall excellent physical health. It is also a great way to spend time with friends and other people who are passionate about tennis! At practice, students learn the layout of the court, the scoring system, and all of the game techniques necessary to develop as a professional player. Classes are 2 hours per week (1 x 2-hour session). The education sessions are usually on Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays. Professional coaches practice various techniques with their students:
Forehand, backhand,
Hand and eye coordination,
Forehand (right kick),
Flying kick,
Serve,
Candle,
Ending the point at the net.