Finding Your Way

Tag: writing

  • Understanding the UK School System for American Families

    When I came to the UK, one of the things that I did not expect to be different from the US when I came here was the schooling system. For those who are coming here with dependents, such as children of their own, I figured it could be helpful for me to lay out the schooling system.

    Education in the UK is split into a few different blocks so to speak: Primary, Secondary, and Post-Secondary Education (further education, higher education).

    Primary education in the UK typically consists of the following years:

    • Foundation Stage (Reception Year): Age 4-5
    • Key Stage 1 (Years 1 and 2): Age 5-7
      • Year 1: Age 5-6
      • Year 2: Age 6-7
    • Key Stage 2 (Years 3 to 6): Age 7-11
      • Year 3: Age 7-8
      • Year 4: Age 8-9
      • Year 5: Age 9-10
      • Year 6: Age 10-11

    This structure forms the basis of primary education in the UK before moving on to secondary education.

    Secondary education in the UK typically consists of the following stages and years:

    • Key Stage 3 (Years 7 to 9): Age 11-14
      • Year 7: Age 11-12
      • Year 8: Age 12-13
      • Year 9: Age 13-14
    • Key Stage 4 (Years 10 and 11): Age 14-16
      • Year 10: Age 14-15
      • Year 11: Age 15-16

    Post Secondary-Education in the UK consists of Further Education and Higher Education. The biggest surprise to me personally was learning that College and University were completely different in the UK, unlike in America where they are one in the same.

    • Further Education (College)
      • Post compulsory
      • includes courses and classes similar to those taught in universities
    • Higher Education (University)
      • Pretty much the same as in America. With Undergraduate and Graduate degrees that can be pursued, alongside PHDs.

    The education system in the UK is not as hard to get a grasp on but I hope this post helps those who need help navigating some of the differences.

  • Why I Avoid Visiting Texas: A Personal Take

    As an American currently residing in the United Kingdom, I must admit that I have never had a desire to visit the state of Texas. I’ve heard negative things about the weather from locals, and as someone who dislikes hot climates, that plays a significant role in my aversion. Even if there were other attractions that appealed to me, the culture of Texas seems to be the complete opposite of what I enjoy. Consequently, I cannot envision myself visiting the Lone Star State anytime in the future.

    Daily writing prompt
    What place in the world do you never want to visit? Why?
    View all responses

  • Essential Languages for Moving to the UK

    In the United Kingdom, a diverse array of languages are spoken, with many originating from immigrants and tourists. While each language is beautiful and valuable to learn, it is essential to focus on two key languages for anyone considering a move to the UK, depending on the desired location. Knowing these primary languages can significantly enhance your experience and opportunities within this multicultural society.

    The primary language in the UK is English, and it’s important to acknowledge a challenge that many face. In certain areas, not speaking English can lead to discomfort or even hostility from locals. While this reaction is unfair and at odds with the UK’s proud multiculturalism, it is crucial to inform newcomers about this reality. As someone from America, where English is the dominant language, I recognize the privilege I had in not needing to learn it as a non-native speaker. Therefore, I aim to provide valuable resources for those looking to learn English, as proficiency is essential for obtaining a visa to the UK.

    Here are some source you can learn English from:

    https://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/online-courses/live-online-classes

    https://www.ihlondon.com/online-english

    There are also a litany of apps, such as Duolingo and Drops. English is a tough language to learn as I have been told by those who speak it as a second language, so apps and classes to help learn it I feel are worth knowing about.

    The second language that might be worth knowing, depending on where you plan to end up in the UK, is Welsh. Welsh is a protected language in Wales, despite it being spoken almost exclusively in Wales and not in many other parts of the UK. North Wales and South Wales have different dialects, so if you learn the Southern dialect and go to North Wales you might notice some differences. Welsh, being a protected language, has plenty of resources for you to learn it.

    This is where I recommend as a resource hub to learn both dialects, North and South.

    https://learnwelsh.cymru/

    Now, if you want to learn Scottish Gaelic, the native language of Scotland, out of pure curiosity of cultural roots, there are some sources to help you learn it but to find a job or live there it is not really necessary. Here is the premiere place I would recommend.

    https://learngaelic.scot/

    Honestly, I would suggest the primary language, if English is not your first language that you have to learn beyond the exams to acquire the visa, is English. You cannot simply memorise it and then promptly forget about it once you get here, it is used in every aspect everywhere. But it a barrier that can be overcome, with patience. Easier said than done, I suppose.