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Frequently asked questions about our school

GENERAL QUESTIONS

Can I attend the Swedish School in London for my entire education?

We have many pupils who complete their entire education with us, from preschool through to Sixth Form.

What are the requirements to attend the Swedish School in London?

All pupils need to have knowledge of the Swedish language. This is especially important for older pupils. Admission to Sixth Form requires at least eligibility for a university-preparatory programme. We also consider available places, pupils’ grades, and our ability to provide a good education.

What are the key differences between the Swedish and British Schools?

No GCSEs: Pupils do not sit GCSE examinations. Instead, progress is assessed through continuous evaluation and Swedish national assessments.

Later high-stakes decisions: The Swedish system avoids early exam pressure. Grades are are introduced at the age of 12 and academic subject choices are made at age 16 for Sixth Form.

Strong pastoral focus: Mentoring and wellbeing are integrated throughout all years.

Why choose our school all the way through?

SSL offers the benefits of a bilingual pathway. Pupils develop academic fluency in both Swedish and English, keeping future education options open in the UK, Sweden, and internationally.

What does it cost to attend the Swedish School in London?

You can find all school fees under “Admissions & Fees” for each school level.

Is lunch included?

In Early Years and Main School, lunch is prepared in the school kitchen by our chef and served to all pupils. Lunch is not included at Sixth Form.

Are the pupils insured?

All pupils are covered by accident insurance.

What is your policy towards sex education?

Written statement of relationships and sex education:

As a school, we have a longstanding commitment to delivering an excellent RSE programme; a curriculum which is under continuous review and development in order to be at the forefront of this area. We strive to ensure that up-to-date, relevant, accurate and age-appropriate Relationship Education (Primary) and Sex and Relationships Education (Secondary) is taught to pupils with utmost sensitivity and inclusivity.

We have thoroughly reviewed the School’s current RSE provision against the Department for Education’s (DfE) draft guidance, which was published in February 2019 (Relationships Education, Relationships and Sex Education and Health Education (England) Regulations 2019 – made under section 34 of the Children and Social Work Act 2017). We are satisfied that the curriculum we have in place more than fulfils the DfE’s guidance as well as that of Swedish requirements.

To be effective for all, it is important that the school works collaboratively with parents, with the clear recognition that parents/carers are the “first teachers of…children” (DfE, 2019) in this regard. Any concerns about the School’s RSE programme, including a request for a child to be withdrawn from RSE lessons, should be discussed with the Head (Primary/Secondary school) or the Deputy Head (6th form), making it clear which specific aspects they wish their child to be withdrawn from.

Pre school

What languages are used?

All teaching at the preschool is conducted in Swedish. This allows children to build on and maintain their Swedish skills while also encouraging the development of their English.

We have observed that children quickly adapt to their bilingual environment in London, which strengthens both their Swedish and English language skills.

Main school

Can I borrow a student laptop from the Swedish School in London?

In the compulsory school, we use iPads for the younger students and Chromebooks for the older students in grades 4–9.

Does the school organise any activities after the school day?

Pupils can choose from a variety of afternoon activities depending on their age. One activity is included in the school fee.

Sixth Form

Can I apply to university in the UK with the grades from the Swedish School in London?

It is possible to attend British universities with the grades. Our Academic Advisor assists you with your application to universities in the UK.

HOST FAMILIES

Why should I house a Swedish exchange student?

Housing a Swedish exchange student offers a variety of benefits. Firstly, it gives you an insight into Swedish culture. Also, it could be a positive experience to have a young adult in your home that can interact with you and your family members. Other than this, you’re also reimbursed by the school on a monthly basis.

Do I have a say in which student you place with a host family?

When you apply to become a host family with us, we ask about your family, your interests and the accommodation you can offer. As part of the application process to The Swedish School in London, students are asked similar questions. Based on this information, our experienced Host Family Coordinator carefully matches students with host families to ensure the best possible fit.

What demands do the school have on a host family?

The student should be treated as a member of the family, and the host family should provide a safe, caring, supportive and suitable home environment.

To become a host family with The Swedish School in London, you must be able to provide a separate room for each student (with a maximum of two students per household), access to a bathroom, and breakfast and dinner from Monday to Sunday. Your home must also be free from any health and safety hazards.

I’m interested in being a host family. What do I do next?

If you are interested in becoming a host family with The Swedish School in London, please get in touch at hostfamily@swedishschool.org.uk

To find out more and to book a private visit, please contact: