Which girls lacrosse starter set is best for beginners. How to choose the right equipment for women’s lacrosse. What are the top-rated lacrosse sticks and accessories for female players. Where to find affordable and high-performance gear for girls lacrosse.
Understanding the Basics of Girls Lacrosse Equipment
Girls lacrosse is an exciting and fast-paced sport that requires specific equipment for safe and effective play. Understanding the essential gear is crucial for both beginners and experienced players. The right equipment can significantly impact a player’s performance and enjoyment of the game.
What constitutes a basic girls lacrosse equipment package? A typical starter set includes:
- Lacrosse stick (head and shaft)
- Protective eyewear
- Mouthguard
- Cleats
- Gloves (optional but recommended)
Each piece of equipment serves a specific purpose and is designed to enhance player safety and performance on the field.
Selecting the Perfect Lacrosse Stick for Girls
The lacrosse stick is the most crucial piece of equipment in a player’s arsenal. It consists of two main parts: the head and the shaft. Choosing the right stick can make a significant difference in a player’s ability to catch, throw, and maintain possession of the ball.
Lacrosse Stick Heads
Are all lacrosse stick heads created equal? No, they vary in design and functionality. Here are some popular options:
- StringKing Mark 2 Midfield Lacrosse Head: Versatile and suitable for all-around play
- Women’s Legend Lacrosse Head: Affordable option for beginners
The head’s shape and stringing pattern affect ball control and release. Midfield players often prefer heads with a balanced design, while attackers might opt for heads optimized for quick shots.
Lacrosse Stick Shafts
Shaft selection is equally important. Key factors to consider include:
- Material (composite, carbon fiber, aluminum)
- Weight
- Grip
- Length (varies by player position and age group)
Top picks include the Women’s Composite Pro Lacrosse Shaft for high-performance play and the Women’s Composite Lacrosse Shaft for a more budget-friendly option.
Essential Protective Gear for Girls Lacrosse
Safety is paramount in any sport, and girls lacrosse is no exception. While the sport has fewer contact rules compared to boys lacrosse, protective equipment remains crucial.
What protective gear is mandatory in girls lacrosse? The essential protective equipment includes:
- Protective eyewear: Goggles that meet ASTM International standards
- Mouthguard: Custom-fit or boil-and-bite options available
- Cleats: Provide traction and stability on the field
Some players also opt for additional protective gear such as gloves or padded headbands, although these are not typically required by most leagues.
Navigating Lacrosse Mesh and Stringing Options
The pocket of a lacrosse stick, formed by the mesh and stringing, plays a crucial role in ball control and shooting accuracy. Understanding different mesh types can help players customize their sticks for optimal performance.
Types of Lacrosse Mesh
What are the primary mesh options for girls lacrosse sticks? Two popular choices include:
- StringKing Type 4 Women’s Lacrosse Mesh: Lightweight and aerodynamic
- StringKing Type W Women’s Lacrosse Mesh: Features an attached channel for easier pocket formation
The choice between these mesh types often comes down to personal preference and playing style. Some players prefer the consistency of Type 4, while others appreciate the guided pocket formation of Type W.
Selecting Complete Lacrosse Sticks for Different Positions
For beginners or players looking for a ready-to-use option, complete lacrosse sticks offer convenience and performance right out of the box. These sticks come pre-strung and are designed for specific positions on the field.
Offensive Sticks
The Women’s Complete 2 Pro Offense Stick is an excellent choice for attackers and offensive-minded players. It features:
- A head design optimized for quick shots and precise ball control
- Lightweight shaft for easy maneuverability
- Pre-strung pocket tailored for offensive play
All-Around Sticks
For players who contribute on both offense and defense, an all-around stick like the Women’s Complete Lacrosse Stick offers versatility and balance.
Budget-Friendly Options for Beginners
Starting a new sport can be expensive, but there are affordable options available for girls looking to try lacrosse without breaking the bank.
How can beginners get started with lacrosse on a budget? Consider these options:
- StringKing Girls’ Starter: An affordable, complete stick designed for new players
- StringKing Girls’ Starter Jr.: A youth-sized option for younger beginners
- Women’s Legend Lacrosse Head: A cost-effective head that can be paired with an affordable shaft
These budget-friendly choices provide the necessary quality and consistency for beginners to learn and enjoy the game without a significant financial investment.
High-Performance Gear for Competitive Players
As players advance in skill and competitiveness, they often seek equipment that can enhance their performance on the field. High-end gear is designed to offer superior control, durability, and customization options.
Premium Lacrosse Heads
Top-tier lacrosse heads, such as the StringKing Mark 2 Midfield, offer:
- Advanced scoop design for improved ground ball pickup
- Optimized face shape for better ball retention
- Reinforced sidewalls for increased durability
Elite Shafts
The Women’s Composite Pro Lacrosse Shaft represents the pinnacle of shaft technology, featuring:
- Lightweight carbon fiber construction
- Vibration-dampening properties
- Textured grip for improved control in all weather conditions
These high-performance options cater to players who demand the best equipment to support their skills on the field.
Customizing Your Lacrosse Stick for Optimal Performance
One of the joys of lacrosse is the ability to customize your stick to suit your playing style and preferences. This customization can significantly impact your performance and comfort on the field.
Pocket Depth and Shape
The pocket’s depth and shape affect how the ball sits in the stick and how easily it can be released. Factors to consider include:
- Shooting style (quick release vs. power shots)
- Position on the field
- League regulations on pocket depth
Stringing Patterns
Different stringing patterns can alter the stick’s performance characteristics. Common patterns include:
- Traditional: Offers excellent ball feel and control
- Mesh: Provides consistency in various weather conditions
- Hybrid: Combines elements of both traditional and mesh
Experimenting with different stringing patterns can help players find the perfect setup for their game.
Maintaining Your Lacrosse Equipment
Proper maintenance of lacrosse equipment is essential for longevity and consistent performance. Regular care can also help prevent equipment-related injuries and ensure compliance with league regulations.
Stick Maintenance
How can you keep your lacrosse stick in top condition? Follow these tips:
- Clean the head and mesh regularly with mild soap and water
- Allow the stick to dry completely after cleaning or playing in wet conditions
- Check for loose strings or worn areas in the pocket and repair as needed
- Inspect the shaft for cracks or damage
Protective Gear Care
Maintaining protective equipment is crucial for safety and hygiene:
- Clean goggles with anti-bacterial wipes or soap and water
- Rinse mouthguards after each use and store in a ventilated case
- Air out gloves and cleats to prevent odor and bacterial growth
Regular maintenance not only extends the life of your equipment but also ensures it performs as intended during gameplay.
Evolving Trends in Girls Lacrosse Equipment
The world of lacrosse equipment is constantly evolving, with manufacturers introducing new technologies and designs to enhance player performance and safety. Staying informed about these trends can help players make educated decisions when upgrading their gear.
Lightweight Materials
Recent advancements in material science have led to the development of ultra-lightweight yet durable equipment. Benefits include:
- Reduced player fatigue during long games or practices
- Increased maneuverability and stick speed
- Improved overall performance on the field
Smart Technology Integration
The integration of smart technology into lacrosse equipment is an emerging trend. Potential applications include:
- Sensors in sticks to measure shot speed and accuracy
- Wearable devices to track player movement and performance metrics
- Augmented reality training aids for skill development
While some of these technologies are still in development, they represent the future direction of lacrosse equipment innovation.
Choosing the Right Equipment for Different Age Groups
As players grow and develop, their equipment needs change. Understanding the appropriate gear for different age groups is crucial for player development and safety.
Youth Players (Under 12)
What equipment considerations are important for young players? Key factors include:
- Lighter, shorter sticks for easier handling
- Softer mesh options for developing proper catching technique
- Emphasis on protective gear to build confidence and ensure safety
Teen Players (13-18)
As players enter their teen years, equipment needs evolve:
- Full-size sticks with more advanced pocket options
- Greater emphasis on stick customization to suit individual playing styles
- Higher-quality protective gear to match increased game intensity
Adult Players (18+)
Adult players often seek equipment that offers:
- Maximum performance and customization options
- Durability to withstand rigorous play
- Comfort for extended gameplay or practice sessions
Selecting age-appropriate equipment ensures that players can develop their skills safely and effectively throughout their lacrosse journey.
The Impact of Rule Changes on Equipment Selection
Lacrosse rules are periodically updated to enhance player safety and game dynamics. These changes can have a significant impact on equipment requirements and design.
Recent Rule Changes
Some notable rule changes in recent years include:
- Stricter regulations on stick dimensions and pocket depth
- Updates to required protective equipment
- Modifications to checking rules, affecting defensive play
Adapting Equipment to New Rules
How can players ensure their equipment remains compliant with changing rules? Consider these strategies:
- Stay informed about rule changes through official league communications
- Regularly check equipment against current regulations
- Consult with coaches or equipment specialists when uncertain about compliance
By staying up-to-date with rule changes and adapting equipment accordingly, players can avoid penalties and ensure fair play.
The Role of Technology in Lacrosse Equipment Innovation
Advancements in technology continue to shape the development of lacrosse equipment, offering players new ways to enhance their performance and enjoyment of the game.
3D Printing in Equipment Manufacturing
How is 3D printing impacting lacrosse equipment production? This technology allows for:
- Rapid prototyping of new stick designs
- Creation of custom-fit components for individual players
- Exploration of novel materials and structures for improved performance
Data-Driven Design
The use of data analytics in equipment design is becoming more prevalent. Benefits include:
- Optimization of stick geometry based on player performance data
- Development of protective gear tailored to common injury patterns
- Creation of training tools that provide instant feedback on technique
As technology continues to evolve, players can expect to see increasingly sophisticated and personalized equipment options.
Environmentally Conscious Equipment Choices
With growing awareness of environmental issues, many players and manufacturers are exploring more sustainable options for lacrosse equipment.
Eco-Friendly Materials
What sustainable materials are being used in lacrosse equipment? Some examples include:
- Biodegradable plastics for stick heads
- Recycled materials in protective gear padding
- Sustainably sourced wood for traditional stick construction
Durability and Longevity
Choosing durable equipment that lasts longer can reduce waste and environmental impact. Factors to consider include:
- Quality of construction and materials
- Availability of replacement parts
- Manufacturer warranties and repair services
By making environmentally conscious equipment choices, players can enjoy their sport while minimizing their ecological footprint.
As the sport of girls lacrosse continues to grow and evolve, so too does the equipment used by players at all levels. From beginner-friendly starter sets to high-performance gear for competitive athletes, the range of available options ensures that every player can find the right equipment to support their development and enhance their enjoyment of the game. By understanding the various components of lacrosse equipment, staying informed about new technologies and trends, and making thoughtful choices based on individual needs and preferences, players can equip themselves for success on the field while also considering factors such as sustainability and long-term value. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your game to the next level, the world of girls lacrosse equipment offers exciting possibilities for players of all ages and skill levels.
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Women’s Lacrosse Sticks and Accessories for Sale Online
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Just Getting Started?
New to the game? Looking to take the guesswork out of buying lacrosse equipment? We’ve made it easier than ever to get your new player set up with the perfect lacrosse stick. Introducing the StringKing Girls’ Starter and Starter Jr. — beginner sticks thoughtfully made simple, consistent, and convenient. Click the links below for more information.
Starter
The Girls’ Starter is the perfect first lacrosse stick, with the right balance of price and performance to help new players develop and enjoy girls’ lacrosse.
Women’s Starter
Starter Jr.
The Girls’ Starter Junior youth lacrosse stick delivers convenience and consistency making it perfect for new players to learn the game and have fun.
Women’s Starter Jr.
The Best Gear for Women’s Lacrosse
StringKing makes the most consistent products in the game of lacrosse, period. We got our start in men’s lacrosse, but we brought the same attention to detail and commitment to quality when we started making products for women’s lacrosse. We offer a full array of affordable and high-performance women’s lacrosse gear, including heads, stringing supplies, shafts, sticks, and other accessories. Shop online for the best equipment for women’s lacrosse.
Featured Products – Performance.
Want to use the best women’s lacrosse equipment in the game? We have you covered. Elite products for women’s lacrosse, designed to deliver top of the line performance on every play. Shop the best gear online.
Featured Products – Value.
Want a more affordable women’s lacrosse setup? We have the best lineup of value products in the game. Quality and consistency shouldn’t cost a fortune. Shop affordable options for women’s lacrosse today.
Mark 2 Midfield Lacrosse Head
Built for midfield. The most versatile, best all-around head for women’s lacrosse. For midfielders and two-way players.
Mark 2 Midfield
Women’s Legend Lacrosse Head
Legendary performance. An affordable, all-around head for women’s lacrosse players. Best for players still learning women’s lacrosse.
Women’s Legend Head
Type 4 Women’s Lacrosse Mesh
The best stringing in women’s lacrosse. Type 4 is lightweight, aerodynamic, and forms the most consistent women’s lacrosse pocket.
Women’s Type 4 Mesh
Type W Women’s Lacrosse Mesh
Our original version of women’s lacrosse mesh. Designed with an attached channel to help form your pocket. Affordable and consistent.
Women’s Type W Mesh
Women’s Composite Pro Lacrosse Shaft
The best carbon fiber shaft for women’s lacrosse. Light, strong, and consistent, women’s Composite Pro shafts won’t let you down.
Composite Pro Shaft
Women’s Composite Lacrosse Shaft
Affordable carbon fiber lacrosse shafts for women’s lacrosse. Consistent performance in a lightweight, durable package.
Composite Shaft
Women’s Complete 2 Pro Offense Stick
Built for offense. An aggressive women’s lacrosse stick for attackers and offensive players. Used from youth leagues to the pros.
Women’s Complete 2 Pro Offense
Women’s Complete Lacrosse Stick
Designed for consistency. The best women’s lacrosse stick for players still developing their skills. Affordable and easy to use.
Women’s Complete
Shop All Women’s Lacrosse Products
Use the links below to explore all women’s lacrosse gear, including lacrosse sticks, heads, shafts, mesh, strings, and accessories. The best equipment in women’s lacrosse, buy online and shipping fast.
Women’s Lacrosse Sticks
Women’s lacrosse sticks for every player. Shop the best affordable complete sticks for offense, mid & defense. Women’s lax sticks with reliable performance.
Shop Women’s Sticks
Women’s Lacrosse Heads
Women’s lacrosse heads for attack, mid & defense. Shop the best new and affordable heads for girls’ and women’s lax online. Women’s lacrosse heads for sale.
Shop Women’s Heads
Women’s Lacrosse Mesh
Mesh, mesh kits, and custom stringing supplies for women’s lacrosse. Shop all the materials you need for custom lax pockets. Get the best women’s lacrosse mesh.
Shop Women’s Mesh
Women’s Lacrosse Shafts
Lacrosse shafts for women’s lax. Carbon fiber and metal shafts for any women’s lacrosse player. Shop the best new and affordable women’s shafts in lacrosse.
Shop Women’s Shafts
Women’s Lacrosse Strings & Laces
Strings & supplies for women’s lacrosse. Shop custom strings online for the best women’s mesh pockets. The best lacrosse strings for stringing women’s pockets.
Shop Women’s Strings
Women’s Lacrosse Accessories
Accessories for women’s lax sticks. Shop here to replace ball stops for women’s heads, butt ends for women’s lax sticks & more lacrosse accessories.
Shop Accessories
Custom Stringing for Women’s Lacrosse
Use uSTRING, our free platform for custom women’s lacrosse stringing patterns and tutorials, to dial in your perfect lacrosse pocket. uSTRING features easy-to-follow tutorials that show you exactly how to string the best women’s lacrosse pocket. Always free. Always easy. uSTRING stringing tutorials always deliver. Learn to string a mesh pocket for women’s lacrosse.
Stringing Tutorials
Haut-Lac International Center – summer camp for children in Switzerland
Age
4 to 15 years old
Languages
English, French
Number of languages per week
13 hours and 20 minutes
1 lesson 40 min.
Dates and duration
1 – 5 weeks between 04 July
to August 05, 2022
Arrival days
Monday
Departure days
Friday
cost
from 300 CH₣ for 1 week full-time education, without accommodation
Submit a request
Features: International Center Haute-Lac invites children and teenagers from 8 to 11 years old to spend their summer holidays in Switzerland with or without learning English or French. Summer camp Haut-Lac for day stay only! The maximum number of children studying at the same time in Haute Lac is 110.
Location: on an area of 25,000 square meters, in the foothills of the Swiss Alps, is the Haut – Lac International Center. The center is located in the village of Le Sierne, just 45 minutes from Montreux and 10 minutes from Gruyères. The road to Geneva International Airport takes 1 hour 20 minutes along Lake Geneva, bypassing Lausanne and Vevey. The journey from Zurich International Airport takes 2 hours.
Description: Haute-Lac International Center offers unique recreation programs for children and teenagers from 8 to 17 years old. Children can take language courses in combination with an entertainment program, or completely abandon learning and enjoy all kinds of entertainment: sports, excursions, competitions, creativity, hiking and tournaments.
This family-run private school opened its doors in 1987 and during that time has established itself as a fantastic place that will not leave any child indifferent!
Training programs:
- Language-Activity Camp – learning foreign languages in combination with an entertainment and sports program. The program provides 20 lessons of 40 minutes per week. Haut – Lac International Center students study English or French. On the first day, students are tested, according to the results of which the children are divided into classes. Classes are aimed at developing all basic skills: writing, reading, listening, speaking. Transfer to a class of another level is possible on every Monday. Classes are taught by experienced teachers who are native speakers. At the end of the course, students receive a Certificate.
- Multi-Activity Camp – entertainment and sports program without language learning.
Students per class: no more than 10 people
Equipment: on the territory of the center there are 9 classrooms, 5 games rooms, bedrooms, a fitness room, an art workshop, a common room, a cinema room, billiard tables, table tennis , air hockey, table football, game consoles, beach volleyball courts, a veranda with a BBQ area and a park area.
Catering: there are two canteens on the territory where children eat. There are many fresh vegetables and fruits on the menu. On the days of excursions, children receive lunch packages.
Excursion program:
Language-Activity Camp – 1 excursion per week is included in the price of the program.
Multi-Activity Camp – 2 day trips per week and 2 short excursions at lunchtime are included in the program price.
Children visit Bern, Geneva, Zurich, Lucerne, Basel, Montreux, Lausanne, Gruyères and other amazing places in Switzerland, including chocolate and cheese factories.
Leisure & Sports: An excellent range of sports and leisure activities.
- Football, basketball, softball, volleyball, lacrosse, beach soccer and volleyball, tennis, squash, badminton, aerobics, cross country, mountain biking, board games, orienteering.
- Swimming, hiking, bowling, mini golf, arts and crafts, cooking, air hockey, board games, movies, chess, frisbee, photography, drama.
- Dress design for parties, olympic games, treasure hunts, quizzes, parties, shows and more.
Friends, please note that the prices for the programs are being updated!
For more information about the work of the educational institution, the period and cost of language programs, check with managers.
for 2022
Program | Age, years | Changes | Event dates | Price CHF |
Language (French | 8 – 15 | morning | July 4 – 8; | 600 |
Camp for children / teenagers | 4 – 7 / 12 -15 | daytime | 600 / 700 | |
noon | 350 / 400 | |||
Sports and entertainment program | 8 – 11 | daytime | 500 | |
noon | 300 |
Prices are in CHF.
Included:
- Haut-Lac T-shirt
- transfer
- study materials
- entertainment program
Additional charge:
- EduTravel Travel Services
- EduTravel Visa Services
- Consular fee
- Bank expenses
- Air travel
- Medical policy
- Additional fees may apply (depending on institution and country)
- school registration fee;
- meals – CHF 100 per week.
✖
Submit a request
Your inquiry: Haut-Lac International Center
Your name:
Your phone:
Select the language of instruction:
— select — English French
Number of participants:
Age of participants:
Desired duration of study:
weekmonthtrimestersemesteryearday
When do you want to start training?:
I’m interested in premium programs and services.
*I have read and agree to the policy regarding the processing of personal data.
– mandatory fields
Age | 4 to 15 years old |
Languages | English, French |
Number of languages per week | 13 hours and 20 minutes 1 lesson 40 min. |
Dates and duration | 1 – 5 weeks in the period from July 04 to August 05, 2022 |
Days of arrival | Monday |
Departure days | |
cost from 300 CH₣ for 1 week full-time study, no residence | Leave a request |
- Profitable! Early booking
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Schools in England: An Overview of UK Educational Institutions
The UK has been and remains one of the world leaders in education. Schools in England are known for their traditions and the highest level of teaching, and they accept both British and foreigners. That is why parents are increasingly sending their children to study in Shakespeare’s homeland: the percentage of Russian students in pre-university educational institutions in the UK is growing by 10-20% annually. This is because an English school diploma opens many doors. Yes, education in schools in England is quite expensive, but it is an investment in the brilliant future of your children.
Before deciding to send your child to a British school, you should carefully weigh the pros and cons.
Pros:
- Kudos. English school is a standard. According to the most conservative estimates, the history of the British education system has 10 centuries. Already in the time of Shakespeare, English education was considered elitist, and schoolchildren from all over Europe came here for knowledge. Studying in an English school, your child will join the centuries-old educational traditions and will provide himself with an advantage when entering a university and looking for a job.
- Quality. In the UK, education is taken extremely seriously, making no discounts to anyone: crown princes and children of billionaires are asked as strictly as ordinary children. In an English school, no one is allowed to be lazy, skip classes and cheat. Discipline is the foundation of learning. At the same time, studying in an English school is not at all like serving in the army, leveling is unthinkable here – they are looking for an individual approach to each student, trying to reveal his talents. Teachers in English schools are true professionals in their field, many of them teach at prestigious universities. Your child will learn from the best experts in their field. Therefore, studying in England is not just a beautiful diploma, it is real knowledge.
- Opportunity to learn English. Of course, if you decide to send your child to study in England, he already knows how to speak English fluently. But there is a qualitative difference between a language learned at home and one learned while immersed in the environment. Within a year, your child will speak it almost like a native language, get rid of the accent and other mistakes.
- Communications. Graduates of private schools in the UK are almost a special caste. Talented and purposeful children of privileged parents grow up and become big businessmen, actors, politicians, economists, lawyers, scientists. Studying in England will expand your child’s circle of acquaintances. School connections last a lifetime, and 10 years after graduation, your son or daughter will already have extensive acquaintances in high circles.
- Access to foreign universities. It makes no sense to dwell on the fact that a diploma from a British private school for Oxford, Sorbonne or Yale is more significant than a certificate from a school near Moscow. Of course, a graduate of a Russian school can also try to continue his studies at a foreign university, but it will be much more difficult.
- Immersion in a different cultural environment. Studying in England, your child will communicate with the British and with representatives of other nations. It will expand the cultural horizon.
Cons:
- Stress. Usually children go to study abroad at the age of 12-14. This is the period when teenagers struggle to prove their independence. However, in fact, they are still children, and parting from their home can be difficult. The child will have to adapt to a new reality, learn independence, look for new friends, get used to living without constant parental care. On the one hand, it is very useful and contributes to the development of the individual. On the other hand, it’s a lot of stress.
- Price. All the advantages of a British education described above affect its cost. This is quite an expensive pleasure, and not every family can afford it.
- Busy schedule. Compared to the British, our educational system is very “relaxed”. The average student has quite a lot of free time, which he is free to dispose of as he wishes. But in an English school, he will have to study constantly – in the classroom or in extracurricular activities. It is worth noting that extracurricular activities in England are a voluntary-compulsory matter. In other words, each student can choose what he likes – sports, art, additional classes in school subjects, work on social projects – but he must choose. In addition, a student from Russia will most likely have to study English intensively. Often, Russian children who were excellent students in their school, after moving to England, move into the category of good students, which is easily explained: all subjects are read in a foreign language.
Private or public school?
In most cases, there is no such choice at all, since in the UK only children born in this country and children of those who have the right to permanent residence here can study in public schools. That is, if the parents live in the UK on a long-term visa, the child can enter a public school. But foreigners whose parents live in another country are only accepted by private schools (although there are exceptions).
Note
According to The Telegraph on August 27, 2016, the top five private schools in England are:
- Cardiff Sixth Form College;
- Westminster School;
- Magdalen College School;
- North London Collegiate School;
- Queen Ethelburga’s College.
The standards and curriculum of private and public schools are very similar. But private ones compare favorably with municipal ones in the level of comfort and the choice of additional classes and electives. The number of students in a class in a private school is smaller, which allows the application of the principle of an individual approach. And finally, the social level of students in private schools is higher – high tuition fees suggest that only children from very wealthy families study here. Therefore, it is not surprising that many Britons, who could send their children to a public school, still prefer a private one.
Important!
Since English is the only language of instruction in British schools, your child should be able to speak English very well. A level of at least upper-intermediate is required. Therefore, preparations for sending to England should be started in advance – preferably at least a year before moving, start intensively studying with a native speaker. For this purpose, nannies and governesses from England are often invited.
Day school or boarding school?
English private schools are of two types: a day school and a boarding school. In practice, many schools combine the two systems. The children go to the day school in the same way as in the usual one, and return home to spend the night. In the case of foreign students, it is very common to live in a British family, in a house located near the school. At the boarding school, children live permanently, placed in special dormitory buildings. Usually such buildings are divided into small rooms for 3-4 people. Each building has a common living room where children can study and socialize. They eat in the school cafeteria. Home pupils of boarding schools can go twice a year – for the summer and Christmas holidays.
The majority of international and non-resident students in British private schools live in these boarding houses. You need to pay extra for accommodation separately, and often it costs more than the training itself. However, there are often not enough places in the boarding house, and parents are forced to stay at home accommodation.
Both systems have their advantages: a boarding school is discipline and constant control, home accommodation is a more “soulful”, human participation in a child’s life.
Overview of schools in England
Some of the most popular among Russians are the following schools in England:
- Friends’ School;
- Abingdon School;
- Harrow School;
- Eton College;
- Royal School;
- Warminster School;
- D’Overbroeck’s College;
- Badminton School;
- St James Senior Girls’ School;
- Sherborne School;
- Kingham Hill School.
The review will consider only some of them, deserving, in the opinion of the author, special attention.
Badminton School in Bristol
One of the most famous and prestigious women’s schools in the country. Located in Bristol, in the university area. The school was founded in the middle of the 19th century. The institution owns a huge plot of land on which educational and dormitory buildings are located, as well as numerous sports grounds – sports traditions are strong here and almost all students go in for horseback riding, martial arts, tennis or swimming. A special pride of the school is the newly built arts center. Saturated extra-curricular activities do not harm academic performance – most of the Badminton school graduates enter prestigious universities. The training program here is more than serious, with an emphasis on the exact sciences and art.
The relatively small size (only 120 students) of the school creates a friendly, almost family atmosphere. This is one of the coziest establishments in England, and much attention is paid to the comfort of students here – in particular, the school has received several specialized awards for the quality of work of local chefs.
St James Senior Girls’ School in Malvern
Private boarding school for girls located in Worcestershire, near London. 360 girls from the best families study and live here. Founded at the end of the 19th century. The school accepts children between the ages of 4 and 18. The academic standards here are very high, and these are not empty words: approximately more than 50% of the school’s students are straight A students. This school is known for its excellent organization of extracurricular activities, and in particular for its sports sections, the most popular of which are golf, horseback riding and lacrosse.
The school’s program is more focused on the humanities. According to statistics, school graduates most often make a career in law, journalism and medicine.
Sherborne School in Sherborne
A private boarding school for gifted boys located in Dorset. Now there are about 600 students studying here. Children aged 13 to 18 are accepted here. Most of the school’s students are young British, there are few foreigners here. The school is rightfully proud of its alumni list: actor Jeremy Irons, head of MI6 David Spedding, King Mswati III of Swaziland, outstanding cryptologist and mathematician Alan Turing and many other figures of art, politics and science studied here.
Sherborne School is located in an old monastery building. The influence of tradition is strong here (founded in the 16th century), but the current director, Chris Davis, is known for his innovative and non-conformist approach to teaching – first of all, he wants to teach students to think and use the resources of their personality. For this, in collaboration with the outstanding psychologist Guy Claxton, a special curriculum was developed. Despite the fact that Sherborne mainly has a humanitarian bias, there is a very strong mathematical department, where only especially gifted children in this subject are selected.
Kingham Hill School in Kingham
Founded in 1886 in one of the most beautiful places in Oxfordshire, a boarding school for boys and girls. Children from 11 to 18 years old are accepted here (foreigners – from 14 years old). Today, 280 children study at Kingham Hill, more than 70% of them live permanently at the school. This educational institution is not selective, that is, it does not practice selection according to the level of academic achievement. Kingham Hill’s mission is to develop the talents of gifted children and at the same time help students with average abilities reach a whole new level. That is why they practice an individual approach to each student. After all, there are no less gifted children – there are children who at one time were not allowed to fully realize themselves.
Academically, the school follows the standard school curriculum, offering a very wide range of extra-curricular activities with an emphasis on sports – horse riding, rugby, martial arts, hockey, dance and ballet are popular here.
D’Overbroeck’s College, Oxford
Relatively young (founded in 1977) private daytime boarding school for boys and girls. About 240 children study here, half of them live in the school’s residence – mostly foreign students. D’Overbroeck’s College is a school for high school students, teenagers from 16 to 18 years old are accepted here. Younger children study at Leckford Place School, which is part of the college structure.
Since this school has many students from abroad, it offers an additional year of English taught in a very effective way. It is this fact that becomes decisive for the parents of many foreign students. However, teaching languages is generally a strong point of D’Overbroeck’s College.
It is expected that school graduates will work in the field of social activity and become politicians, journalists, sociologists. Therefore, in addition to compulsory subjects, rhetoric, political science, communication culture, and economics are taught here. Approximately one third of the students of the school are excellent students. The prestige of the school is so high that many gifted students are offered conditional admission to universities in England, and about 10% continue their studies at Cambridge and Oxford.
Warminster School Warminster
Co-educational private boarding school in Wiltshire for boys and girls aged 3 to 18. In addition to the boarding house, there is also a day department. The school was founded in 1707. Now 600 students study here, 220 of them live at the school permanently. The school is known for its international composition of students – about 17% of the children came from abroad, mostly from Europe. Most of them are over 11 years old and live in a boarding house.
The school has a pronounced natural science bias, but also creates optimal conditions for the development of creative skills (music is taught here especially seriously).