Our latest education related articles

What is the difference between History GCSE and A-Level?

Many students who have enjoyed GCSE History choose to continue studying the subject at A-Level, making it one of the more highly ranking courses in lists of the most popular A-Levels.

One of the key differences between GCSE and A-Level History is the breadth and depth of content. Whilst some students might relish the opportunity to continue studying topics with which they are already familiar, such as the Tudors and the Cold War, exam boards offer an increasingly wide range of options at A-Level. With courses on twentieth-century Chinese history, medieval France and the rise of Islam in sixth to eighth centuries, students are frequently faced with entirely new material that they must master in breadth and depth. This is exciting for enthusiasts of the subject. However, with three to four topics to cover it is also one of the main challenges of the course.

Another key difference between the A-Level and GCSE courses is the number and nature of essays required. In the GCSE exams, students may write one extended answer per topic across around four topics. At A-Level, students have to write double that number. Fundamentally, the structure of questions can be similar to those set at GCSE, with questions asking students to evaluate causes and consequences or the success of a particular figure or movement. That said, as students cover topics in greater depth and complexity there are higher expectations about the amount of detailed evidence that is required for high marks, as well as the insight and sophistication of argument. Indeed, the A-Level offers an excellent opportunity for students to develop their skills of argument, using analysis and evaluation with clear criteria and reasoning to form their own judgements.

The final major difference between the GCSE and A Level History is the amount of primary and secondary sources that students are required to work with. All of the major exam boards require students to write essay-length responses to questions on pieces of historical evidence and writing, which are longer and more challenging than those set at GCSE.

The UK education system can be confusing, especially for international families whose children are being educated elsewhere. This blog aims to give an overview of the system and to define the key terms you might see when conducting research.

Before reading the rest of the blog do take a look at our Educational Roadmap linked here, which will allow you to determine which UK school year your child is in. The age cut-off date is September 1st in the UK – e.g. if your child is 10 years-old on September 1st, turning 11 during the academic year, they will be in UK Year 6.

Over the years Keystone has successfully helped many families in their search for suitable independent schools for their children through our Schools Advisory Service. We have outlined the key points that you should consider when looking for a school for your child and where to find the information in this article. 

Using School League Tables in the UK: What you need to know?

When it comes to choosing a school for your child, one of the first places many parents turn to is school league tables. These tables, which rank schools based on their academic performance, can seem like an easy way to identify the “best” schools. However, while they provide useful data, it’s essential to understand how to interpret them and recognise their limitations. 

In this blog, we’ll explore how UK school league tables work, the benefits of using them, and the important factors you should also consider when choosing a school. 

If you're interested in learning more about other factors to consider when choosing a school, please visit our blog post on ‘How to Choose a British Independent School for my Child.’  

Interviewing for a Place to Study at Cambridge University

Cambridge University, founded over 800 years ago, supposedly by scholars fleeing from irate townsfolk in Oxford, is one of the world's greatest universities and a historic seat of learning. Graced by the stunning architecture of its colleges, and filled with keen minds from around the world, Cambridge is an amazing place to study your chosen subject.

Securing a place at one of the University's 31 historic colleges is no easy feat, and the Cambridge admissions interview is often the subject of a great deal of nervousness. We hope the answers below to many of the most frequently asked questions about these interviews will help you with making a successful application!

Will Orr-Ewing, Keystone's founder, was featured in Spear's Magazine article “The top education and tutoring specialists for high-net-worth individuals”.

Founded in 1382 by William of Wykeham, Bishop of Winchester (who also founded New College, Oxford), this is one of the oldest schools in the world. The College is situated in the beautiful city of Winchester, and its buildings and grounds are outstanding. Academic standards are extremely high with boys achieving exceptional results. Winchester is a full-boarding school with a demanding extra-curricular programme, but despite this fast pace it is characterised as much by its consideration of individual needs as it is by collective endeavour.

The school began welcoming girls as day pupils to the sixth form in September 2022. Boys are currently welcomed as day or boarding pupils and girls’ boarding places will be available from September 2026. The admission of girls (and the increasing number of day pupils) will significantly increase the size of the sixth form. Over time the school plans to admit a minimum of 30 day pupils (approximately half of these will be girls) and up to 50 girl boarders into the sixth form.

Achieving an A or A star in A Level Spanish is undoubtedly challenging, but with the right approach and dedication, it's entirely attainable. This guide will equip you with essential strategies resources and tips to excel in all aspects of the exam.  

For an overview of A Level preparation across subjects, our A Level Revision Tips article covers proven strategies that can be adapted to Spanish.

A Levels are challenging, and French is no exception. Even native speakers can struggle with the complexities of the language at this level. However, with the right approach and dedication, achieving top grades is entirely within reach. This comprehensive guide will equip you with the essential tools and strategies to excel in your A Level French exams.  For general revision strategies, see our A Level Revision Tips Guide.

What is a grammar school? 

State funded secondary schools which select students based on their scores in competitive entrance exams are known as grammar schools.  

Where are grammar schools? 

Grammar schools were first created by the Education Act of 1944 but since 1998, no new grammar schools can be established. As a result, there are only around 163 grammar schools in England, and 69 in Northern Ireland; there are no state funded grammar schools in Wales or Scotland. 

The highest concentration of grammar schools can be found in Kent, Medway, Essex, Buckinghamshire and Lincolnshire; Gloucestershire, Trafford and Slough have several grammar schools alongside their comprehensive schools and there are a handful of grammar schools in Birmingham, Bournemouth and some boroughs in London. 

Parents can explore a full comparison of the top grammar schools in the UK in our detailed national rankings guide.

Achieving top grades in GCSE German can seem daunting, especially given the language's complexities. Covering grammar, vocabulary and speaking skills, this comprehensive guide provides study techniques and examiner recommendations to ensure you are fully prepared to achieve a 9 in your German GCSE.

For many parents in Essex, securing a place at one of the county’s selective secondary schools is a major priority. Essex grammar schools are among the most academically successful in England, with excellent GCSE and A-Level results and strong progression to top universities. This guide explains the best grammar schools in Essex, how admissions work, and how to help your child succeed in the competitive 11+ process.

Attaining a 9 in GCSE Spanish is achievable with the right strategic preparation. In this guide, you'll find techniques to help you excel in your Spanish exams.

Note: The Classics Admissions Test (CAT) has now been discontinued. Applicants do not need to take a written test as part of an application for any of the following courses: Classics, Classics and English, Classics and Modern Languages and Classics and Asian and Middle Eastern Studies at Oxford University.

Choosing the right school for your child is a pivotal decision, and for parents in Kent, the selection of grammar schools offers a pathway to exceptional education. Each year, thousands of pupils sit the Kent Test (11+), competing for places at schools known for academic excellence, outstanding university progression, and strong extracurricular programmes.

This guide explores the best grammar schools in Kent, how admissions work, and what parents should consider when choosing the right school for their child.

Super-curricular activities are intellectually enriching pursuits that extend beyond the standard curriculum. Super-curricular activities are essential for applications to top universities, demonstrating commitment and deeper engagement with a chosen subject.  

Keystone was featured in an article by the Times. This piece covers the increase in demand for 11-plus tuition and how this could potentially impact the social exclusivity of selective schools. Keystone's Founder and Director, Will Orr-Ewing, contributed to the article.