Teacher and students
Schools in the UK

In addition to state education, the UK has a long-established and much respected private school sector. British boarding schools welcome thousands of international pupils every year. 

UK boarding schools offer a world-class education, mostly because of their excellent facilities and individual tutoring for pupils. Benedikt Weissheimer attends a boarding school in the UK:

“Being a full-time boarder at Gresham’s has been a completely new experience. I am enjoying it very much and haven’t once regretted my decision.”

Unfortunately, the British Council cannot provide individual advice on schools in the UK. On this page, however, we have collected some useful links and tips on the subject to help you find the right school. 

Information sheet: Schools in the UK

Our information sheet on private education includes useful links and sources for further reference (available in German only). In it you will find answers to the following questions:

  • Boarding schools and private schools: How are they different from state schools?
  • What kind of school-leaving qualifications exist in the UK?
  • Are they fully recognised in Austria?
  • What are the financial costs?

Study UK: Discover You

You can find further information on the database of Study UK: Discover You. Here you can also search for specific courses at boarding schools and colleges across the UK.

Schools Finder

The Find Schools Directory on the GOV.UK website will make your search for a suitable school much easier. You can refine your search against a number of criteria to find specific schools in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.