A WARM WELCOME TO EARLSCLIFFE
At Earlscliffe, we offer a distinctly different educational experience: a small, ambitious and truly international school where every student is known, supported and inspired to excel. Our size enables us to combine academic rigour with exceptional pastoral care in a close-knit environment where students feel confident, connected and ready to thrive. Our academic model is purposeful and exacting, characterised by small classes, intensive teaching and rigorous progress tracking. We offer a carefully curated range of programmes, including a one year GCSE, A-levels, a University Foundation Year and a Diploma in Business and Management, providing clear and flexible pathways to higher education. Alongside this, a rich programme of academic enrichment and leadership opportunities ensures that each student’s ambitions are not only nurtured, but surpassed. This focused approach leads to excellent outcomes. Our students progress to leading universities in the UK, including top Russell Group institutions, as well as prestigious universities across Europe and North America. Earlscliffe is a community of intellectual curiosity and global perspective. We cultivate joyful, inquisitive learners who engage deeply with their studies and with the world around them. Here, ambition is not simply encouraged, it is translated into purposeful action, underpinned by responsibility, integrity and respect. Students are encouraged to be ambitious, connected and exceptional, developing into thoughtful, reliable individuals ready to contribute meaningfully in a complex world. Earlscliffe offers a rare balance of focus, community and opportunity, where students flourish and prepare to shape their global future. It is a privilege to lead Earlscliffe, and I look forward to welcoming you to experience all that our school has to offer. Nicola Robinson Headteacher 3
EXCEPTIONAL SEASIDE LOCATION
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Earlscliffe is located in Folkestone on the South East coast of England, overlooking the English Channel. On clear days France is visible just 40 km away, reflecting the school’s strong international outlook. The school sits in Folkestone’s elegant West End, a short walk from the sea and the clifftop promenade known as The Leas, with easy access to beaches, coastal paths and outdoor activities such as paddle-boarding and sailing.
MINUTES FROM LONDON BY TRAIN
Earlscliffe was built in 1870 as a substantial private house in Folkestone’s elegant West End, and has been a place of education since the early 1920s. During the Second World War it provided refuge to German Jewish children relocated from Berlin — an early chapter in the school’s long international story.
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The nearby Harbour Arm offers cafés, restaurants and entertainment, while the town’s Creative Quarter is known for its independent galleries, studios and vibrant cultural life. In 2024, Folkestone was named ‘Best Place to Live in the South East’ by The Times.
LOCATION – KEY FACTS
The school offers a safe residential environment within walking distance of the town centre, coastline and excellent local sports facilities, while London St Pancras is just 54 minutes away by high-speed train.
Safe residential neighbourhood
Elegant West End of Folkestone Five minutes’ walk to the sea and The Leas promenade Close to Folkestone town centre and Harbour Arm
54 minutes to London St Pancras by high-speed train Easy access to Eurotunnel and international airports Excellent nearby facilities at Three Hills Sports Centre
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EARLSCLIFFE LOCATION AND CAMPUS
Earlscliffe is exceptionally well connected. High-speed trains from Folkestone Central railway station reach London in just 54 minutes, making the capital easily accessible for university visits, cultural trips and international travel connections. Folkestone also sits beside the Channel Tunnel, providing fast links to continental Europe, while several major international airports — including London Gatwick and London Heathrow — are within easy reach, giving students convenient access to destinations around the world.
EARLSCLIFFE TO: London St Pancras International 75 miles/120 km 54 minutes by direct train
LONDON HEATHROW AIRPORT
CALAIS
London Gatwick Airport 71 miles/114 km 1 hour 15 minutes by car London Heathrow Airport 95 miles/153 km 1 hour 30 minutes by car Approximate distances and travel times
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EARLSCLIFFE, FOLKESTONE
GATWICK AIRPORT
Earlscliffe’s campus is located in a quiet residential area close to the town centre and the seafront. The school occupies elegant period buildings that have been carefully adapted to create a modern academic environment, with small teaching spaces, specialist study areas and comfortable student residences — all within easy walking distance. This compact campus layout helps create a close-knit, supportive community where students can focus on their studies while enjoying the benefits of life in a distinctive and well-connected coastal town.
KEY PLACES IN FOLKESTONE A. Folkestone Central train station B. Bouverie Place shopping centre C. Folkestone Creative Quarter D. Harbour Arm E. The Relish boutique B+B F. The View Hotel, a member of Radisson Individuals G. Leas promenade H. The Grand Hotel
EARLSCLIFFE AND FACILITIES 1. Main building and residence: 29 Shorncliffe Road 2. Residence: 47 Earls Avenue 3. R esidence: 29 Westbourne Gardens 4. School House: 24 Grimston Gardens 1
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5. R esidence: 25 Grimston Gardens 6. Residence and classrooms: 26 Grimston Gardens 7. Residence: 10-14 Julian Road 8. Three Hills sports centre and astro pitches
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WHY CHOOSE EARLSCLIFFE?
ALBANIA AUSTRIA BEL A BEL RUS BU G I U M CR LGA E S OA R I A TO TIA N IA
TINA ARGEN ZIL BRA A IC ER DA AM NA N C A U DA S
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CE Y AN AN R F RM GE EECE GR GARY HUN D IREL AN ITALY KOSOVO L AT V MA IA MO LTA M LD PO ON OVA L A TEN EG N D RO
IA AN M IA RO SS RU R B I A SE VAKIA SLO SPAIN SWITZERL AND UKRAINE
NG IR A K CY ON N G P A R M RU S UNIT EN ED K INGD IA OM
N IG E KE RI A GH NYA AN GA A MB IA CHIN A UZBEKISTAN TURKMENISTAN Y TURKE AR M N MYA NON BA TAN LE N S KH APA A Z J KA
Earlscliffe is a UK sixth form college founded on the simple principles of preparing international students for UK and global university entry, through focused teaching and a myriad of opportunities for personal development.
48 NATIONALITIES ACROSS FIVE CONTINENTS Europe Asia Africa North America South America
Earlscliffe offers students aged 15-19 years a ‘home from home’ environment which is welcoming, safe and comfortable. The small community of around 150 students from all over the world truly is a global village, in which cultural exchange, sporting opportunity and meaningful community service flourish. Personalised pastoral care and support are offered without being intrusive.
KEY FEATURES
We are international. We have always been international. We are Earlscliffe.
A varied and meaningful extracurricular programme including weekly sports, clubs, societies and community service
A strong academic approach: weekly TRaC™ testing, small classes and intensive teaching A small school offering a welcoming, comfortable and safe environment A truly international environment with 48 different nationalities represented
A UNESCO associated school Award-winning pastoral care and support (Winner of BSA Award for Supporting International Boarders in 2025) A Tottenham Hotspur Football Development Programme as well as a Basketball Academy A great location by the beach, yet close to central London (54 minutes by train)
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STUDYING AT EARLSCLIFFE One-year GCSE/Pre A-level A-level University Foundation Year Diploma in Business and Management Academic Integration Short Courses
Earlscliffe offers a range of academic programmes designed to support entry to leading universities in the UK and internationally. Students aged 15+ often begin with our fast-track one-year GCSE programme, while most aged 16+ pursue our established two-year A-level course. For those seeking an accelerated route to higher education, we also offer a one-year University Foundation Year or the Diploma in Business and Management.
SAMPLE WEEKDAY Morning — Academic Focus 08:30-09:00 Tutor group / forum 09:00–10:15 Lessons 10:15–10:30 Break 10:45–12:00 Lessons 12.00–12.45 Lunch Afternoon — Study & Enrichment 12:45–14:15 Lessons 14:15–14:30 Break 14:30–16:45 Languages / UCAS / study Evening — Activities 16:45 Clubs, coaching, gym 18:00 Supper 19:00 Study / sports / trips / film night
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Many of the UK’s leading universities belong to the Russell Group, and a large proportion of Earlscliffe students apply to these institutions during the Michaelmas term of their final year. From the outset, we help students select the A-level subjects best suited to their ambitions and guide them carefully through the university application process. Across all programmes, students benefit from the distinctive Earlscliffe approach: small classes, regular progress testing and a strong emphasis on academic enrichment and university preparation.
KEY FEATURES Clear pathways to leading UK and international universities Guidance on A-level subject choices and university applications Small classes with personalised academic support Weekly progress testing and structured academic monitoring Academic enrichment beyond the classroom English Language Centre of Excellence
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ONE YEAR GCSE English Language Mathematics Science Humanities Native language
Many students choose the examined route, typically taking up to five GCSE/ IGCSEs in one year. Others use the Pre A-level year or term to step out of their own country’s academic system, improve their English, study academic subjects and immerse themselves in boarding life. Students are fully integrated into college life, joining sports, cultural activities and enrichment, alongside A-level peers. As with all Earlscliffe programmes, teaching is intensive and personalised, with small classes and weekly TRaC™ testing to track progress.
KEY FEATURES Up to five GCSE/ IGCSEs in one year Fully integrated into A-level college life Small classes with intensive, personalised teaching Weekly TRaC™ progress testing English plus academic subjects Designed for international students Pre-A-level or Pre-IB pathway UK Year 11 equivalent (ages 15+)
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A-LEVEL Art Biology Business Chemistry Economics English Literature Further Mathematics Geography History Mathematics Photography Physics Politics Psychology Chinese French German Italian Japanese Russian Spanish
Students typically study four A-level subjects, including their native language, focusing on traditional, academically rigorous courses valued by leading universities. Non-native English speakers take the IELTS exam if required. Students also complete the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), an independent research project that develops skills in research, critical thinking, and extended writing, while demonstrating intellectual curiosity and readiness for university study. We also offer the Pearson BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate in Sport, equivalent to one A-level.
KEY FEATURES Four A-levels, including the student’s native language Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) IELTS preparation Small classes, averaging seven students Up to nine lessons per subject each week Weekly TRaC™ testing Intensive teaching 1:1 UCAS counselling Traditional route to top UK universities Optional BTEC Sport qualification
Turkish
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Completed in one year and equivalent DIPLOMA IN BUSINESS AND to two A-levels, this course comprises MANAGEMENT nine modules in business and Business Environment Business Organisation Business Communications Working in Teams Market Research Business Finance Leadership & Management Principles of Marketing & Sales Human Resources Management
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management. Assessment is continuous, through written tasks, presentations and a portfolio, with final grades of Pass, Merit or Distinction. It is designed for students aged 17+ who wish to focus on business and prefer coursework over final exams, and is open to UK and international students. The qualification (Ofqual 610/1761/9, NQF Level 3 / EQF Level 4) provides progression to reputable UK degree programmes. Students usually also take their native language at A-level plus one additional academic subject.
KEY FEATURES One-year course Fully internally assessed (no final exams) Leads to UK university entry Includes 1:1 UCAS counselling Accredited by ATHE Equivalent to two A-levels To be taken with own language or another subject as a third A-level
UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION YEAR Four pathways: STEM Business Economics & Management Humanities Creative Arts
Our University Foundation Year (UFY) offers a choice of four popular pathways to UK university entry. It covers key topics in the chosen field, supplemented by research and writing skills, critical thinking and academic English.
KEY FEATURES
The UFY is a bridge between school and university, which provides a balance of independence and support within a community environment.
Includes 1:1 UCAS counselling
This course is suitable for students who want a one-year pre-university course and/or perform better when continuously assessed, rather than by final, highpressured exams. Assessment includes internal tests, assignments, essays, projects, end-of-term exams and science practical work. Final grades are awarded as Pass, Merit or Distinction.
One-year course Fully internally assessed (no final exams) Leads to UK university entry
Accredited by NCFE Included in the course: Three academic subjects, English Language and IELTS preparation
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UNIVERSITY PATHWAYS
Our students progress to a wide range of leading universities, both in the UK and internationally. Equipped with strong academic foundations and valuable extracurricular experiences, they go on to pursue degrees in fields such as business, engineering, the sciences, and the arts. Their success reflects not only their ambition and dedication, but also the supportive and enriching environment they experienced during their studies with us.
IN THE LAST TEN YEARS…
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STUDENTS TO UNIVERSITIES
WORLDWIDE UNIVERSITY DESTINATIONS INTERNATIONAL 15% UK (EXCL LONDON) 40% LONDON 45%
185 DIFFERENT DEGREE CHOICES BUSINESS, MANAGEMENT & ECONOMICS 36% ENGINEERING & COMPUTER SCIENCE 15% CREATIVE ARTS, DESIGN & MEDIA 14% SOCIAL SCIENCES & POLITICS 10% SCIENCE & MATHEMATICS 9% MEDICINE & HEALTH SCIENCES 7% LAW 5% HOSPITALITY & TOURISM 3% OTHER 1%
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TOP LONDON DESTINATIONS
TOP EUROPEAN DESTINATIONS
TOP US DESTINATIONS
Imperial College London
Bocconi University, Milan
Stanford University, California
University College London
ESCP Business School, Paris
Babson College, Massachusetts
King’s College London
Frankfurt School of Finance & Management
Boston University, Massachusetts
EBS University, Germany
Northeastern University, Massachusetts
Queen Mary University of London London School of Economics and Political Science
Les Roches, Switzerland
Royal Holloway, University of London
Ecole Hotelière de Lausanne
City St George’s, University of London
University of St Gallen, Switzerland
SOAS University of London
University of Debrecen, Hungary
Goldsmiths, University of London
University of East Sarajevo, Bosnia
University of the Arts London (UAL)
University of Nicosia, Cyprus
Rutgers, New Jersey Syracuse, New York Bentley University, Massachusetts University of Arizona Temple University, Pennsylviania TOP INTERNATIONAL DESTINATIONS The Chinese University of Hong Kong Keio University, Japan Tokyo Metropolitan University, Japan
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Atlinbus University, Istanbul Turkey FAAP Fundação Armando Alvares Penteado, Brazil
STUDENTS TO TOP 30 UK UNIVERSITIES
Artlaxy Institute, Shanghai NSW University, Australia
CREATIVE VS ACADEMIC UNIVERSITIES CREATIVE UNIVERSITIES 18% ACADEMIC UNIVERSITES 82%
15 STUDENTS TO TOP 15 NORTH AMERICAN UNIVERSITIES
21 STUDENTS TO TOP 20 EUROPEAN UNIVERSITIES
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ACADEMIC INTEGRATION SHORT COURSES Core subjects include: English language Mathematics Science Humanities Creative subjects
The Academic Integration programme is an immersive academic and cultural experience for international students aged 15–18. It can be taken for one month, one term, or two terms during the academic year. Students follow a balanced curriculum designed to strengthen subject knowledge, improve English and build confidence for future international study. Beyond the classroom, they are fully integrated into school life, taking part in sports, creative activities and cultural experiences alongside full-time students — gaining a genuine insight into British boarding school life.
KEY FEATURES For international students aged 15–18 An immersive academic and cultural programme Available for one month, one term or two terms Strengthens subject knowledge and English Builds confidence for future international study Students join classes with full-time Earlscliffe students Take part in sports, creative and cultural activities Experience authentic British boarding school life
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A LETTER FROM OUR FOUNDERS
When we first acquired our main building in 2011, it stood empty and disused, but we could already see what it might become. A year later that vision became reality — thanks to determination, hard work and a close sense of purpose, all of which we encouraged in generations of our students. We created Earlscliffe to offer something different from larger institutions: a school where every student is known, supported and challenged to achieve the best. Studying away from home is a big step, and that understanding shapes everything we do — from our teaching and university guidance to the pastoral care that helps students feel secure, confident and ready to thrive. We strongly feel that a ‘layering’ of experiences, throughout these pivotal years in a young person’s life, contributes hugely to the adult character and outlook they eventually assume. Such experiences vary from public speaking to volunteering in the wider, local community, and from hearing global politicians at the LSE to marvelling at a Mozart piano concert at London’s Wigmore Hall. As we often say — to our own children as well as to our students — be ambitious, and make an impact. Despite being a history teacher, it was a Nobel Prize-winning physicist’s infectious energy and drive that once inspired Tim’s approach to working with young people, when Richard Feynman stated that ‘the highest forms of understanding we can achieve are laughter and human compassion.’ We would love to meet you at Earlscliffe to talk about vision, not for a building anymore, but for a future — yours. Tim and Julie Fish Founders
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Excelling in education: rigorous tracking, personalised teaching and a culture of high achievement
his integrated approach to T teaching and learning combines rigorous assessment, targeted support and high-quality teaching to optimise academic progress: » TRaC™ — a disciplined, transparent system of assessment and support, including: ~ regular academic testing ~ clear performance tracking over time ~ targeted academic coaching and structured support. » Small class sizes — an average of seven students per class. » Intensive teaching — more teaching time per subject. The EPQ (Extended Project Qualification) is highly regarded by UK universities and supports strong undergraduate applications.
‘ The atmosphere was very friendly, inclusive and multicultural. Being based in Folkestone made my experience even more special, with its beautiful coastline.’ Jeren, Turkmenistan (GCSE and A-level) Medical Imaging, University of Exeter
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Enabling international learners to compete at the highest level
English Language Centre of Excellence arlscliffe is an official test centre E for both Cambridge and IELTS examinations. ighly experienced teachers of H English as a second language deliver focused, high-quality instruction. cross-curricular, collaborative A approach supports the development of subject-specific vocabulary and academic terminology. tudents are prepared for LAMDA S and ESB (English Speaking Board) assessments.
‘ My time at Earlscliffe was truly formative, sparking my interest in global markets and instilling a strong academic foundation that continues to support my ongoing learning and career.’ Nicoletta, Romania (A-level) Economics & Management, University of Bristol
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Empowering young people to choose meaningful career pathways
The Careers Institute Our students receive expert UCAS guidance, along with personal statement and interview preparation. I n partnership with Dukes Plus, Earlscliffe students also benefit from the expert advice of sectorleading consultancies: » Oxbridge Applications – intensive test and interview preparation » Medic Portal – University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT) and interview preparation » Lawyer Portal – National Admissions Test for Law (LNAT) preparation » A-List Education – guidance on applying to North American universities » InvestIN – diagnostic careers assessment and immersive career experiences.
‘ The strong teaching and focused learning environment, combined with a welcoming atmosphere and an international community of students from all over the world, was truly special.’ Estelle, Germany (University Foundation Year) Business Administration & Economics, University of St Gallen, Switzerland
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Enriching the curriculum with creative, futuredriven micro-credentials
hort, high-value academic S courses are included in the weekly timetable, including: » Sustainable Futures » Mini-MBA™ » Artificial Intelligence » Digital Strategy & Media Literacy » Leadership. cademic societies offer access A to external lectures, debates and events at the London School of Economics (LSE), University College London (UCL) and the Cambridge Science Festival. ne of the very few UK O UNESCO schools, with a strong commitment to the Model United Nations (MUN).
‘ Beyond the classroom, Earlscliffe gave me countless opportunities to grow, from UNESCO cultural exchanges and extracurriculars, to simply learning to be more independent and confident.’ Harry, Myanmar (A-level) Chemical Engineering, Queen’s University Belfast
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Extending knowledge, skills and endeavour. Be ambitious!
Sport, Culture and Service (SCS) SCS provides balance and structure to college life. It includes: » weekly sport, physical activity and wellbeing provision » cultural engagement through theatre visits and exhibitions » service and leadership opportunities at Earlscliffe and in the wider community » weekend trips and activities programme of events igh Performance Programmes H for boys and girls include: » basketball — in partnership with Folkestone Saints » football — in partnership with Tottenham Hotspur Football Club
‘ With the support from a team of people who care about me as a person, I was able to balance a challenging basketball training schedule with my academic needs. I’d recommend this experience to anybody!’ Arthur, Brazil Management, Insper, Sao Paulo, Brazil
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Delivered in partnership with Tottenham FOOTBALL DEVELOPMENT Hotspur Football Club, this programme provides a full-time pathway combining PROGRAMME high-quality football coaching with academic study and university preparation.
Designed for girls and boys aged 15–19, it allows students to pursue football seriously while maintaining a strong academic foundation. Coaching is integrated into the school week so training and study work together rather than competing for time. Students train in a high-quality environment that develops technically skilled, tactically aware, physically prepared and mentally resilient players, while also supporting future university pathways in the UK or the United States.
KEY FEATURES Tottenham Hotspur Development Coach at Earlscliffe Professional coaching within the school timetable Advanced technical training and competitive fixtures Strength and conditioning with fitness and nutrition guidance Individual development targets and performance reviews Tottenham Hotspur experiences, including matchdays and training centre visits US university pathway support, including SAT preparation and scholarships
SAMPLE WEEKLY SCHEDULE Mon: Technical skills, 1v1s, passing, shooting Tue: Tactical training, shape, pressing, unit play Wed: Match day — league/cup fixtures Thu: Strength, conditioning & functional training Fri: Video analysis and tactical review
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BASKETBALL SKILLS ACADEMY
The Earlscliffe Basketball Academy allows students to combine serious basketball development with academic study in a structured and supportive environment. Students train regularly with an experienced professional coaching team focused on improving technical ability, game understanding and physical performance, while also developing teamwork, leadership, resilience and a positive competitive mindset. Players take part in regular competitive matches as members of Folkestone Saints Basketball Club, gaining access to a National League pathway with a strong emphasis on player development. Consistent training and expert coaching help committed players reach their full potential, while staying fully engaged with their studies.
KEY FEATURES Daily basketball training Regular competitive match play Professional coaching from Level 3 coaches Membership of Folkestone Saints Basketball Club Small-group and oneto-one skills coaching Opportunities to gain coaching and refereeing qualifications Sports psychology Guidance on health, fitness and nutrition
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At Earlscliffe, every child is cared for, supported, and encouraged to thrive — academically, socially, and emotionally.
Support and wellbeing At Earlscliffe, students thrive with strong academic and emotional support. This includes close teamwork between staff, a qualified school nurse, and small classes with personalised attention. Boarding life There are six boarding houses, with boys and girls living separately. Each is led by a House Manager who supports students daily and stays in touch with parents. Houses offer comfortable single or twin en-suite rooms and shared common rooms, kitchens and gardens to relax and socialise. Meals and community Fresh, healthy meals are served daily, with varied options including vegetarian dishes, plus a quick ‘express’ lunch option.
‘ What stood out immediately was how small and welcoming the school was — you genuinely knew everyone, which made the boarding environment feel warm, familiar, and easy to settle into.’ Hannah, Germany International Relations, Royal Holloway, University of London
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Earlscliffe is a UNESCO associated school and is committed to the UNESCO mission. Earlscliffe Ltd is part of Dukes Education, registered in England No. 4091830. UKVI Student Sponsor Licence number: 0QPJH1F1X. Dukes Education is a family of schools and educational services based in the UK. Our schools are unique in identity and style yet united in offering outstanding teaching and learning which provides the strongest of foundations for our young people to lead meaningful and fulfilling lives. Earlscliffe is registered with the UK Department for Education as an independent boarding school: number 886/6138.
Enrolling at Earlscliffe, admissions, orientation and entry requirements for a supportive and academically ambitious learning environment.
Orientation All new students attend Orientation at the start of their first term in September. Sessions focus on introductions to staff and fellow students; understanding the college’s expectations for behaviour and compliance with Earlscliffe rules and UK law; essential study skills; an overview of the A-level and GCSE systems and university entry; how the Earlscliffe community works and lives together; the ‘Sports, Culture and Service’ (SCS) programme; and TRaC™, our system of continuous assessment and improvement. Entry process Our admissions process is designed to be clear and straightforward. Applicants are asked to: » Submit school reports from the previous two years (in English) » Complete the online application form » Pay the registration fee » Demonstrate the required English level: IELTS 4.5 (or equivalent) for one-year GCSE, or IELTS 5.5 (or equivalent) for A-level and Year 13 programmes » Attend an interview, either in person or online » Complete the relevant academic assessment tests under exam conditions.
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Earlscliffe 29 Shorncliffe Road Folkestone, CT20 2NB United Kingdom T: +44 (0)1303 253951 E: admissions@earlscliffe.co.uk earlscliffe.co.uk