A survey of some 180 COBIS faculties final 12 months revealed that 56% had reported a rise on pupil numbers in comparison with 2024. Much more promisingly, 78% of respondents stated they felt ‘optimistic’ or very optimistic’ about enrolment progress.
And greater than half (53%) of respondents stated they felt the demand for British worldwide faculties of their area had elevated in contrast with two years in the past.
COBIS represents British worldwide faculties from over 80 international locations world wide, with 42% of respondents highlighting notable adjustments within the nationalities making up their pupil our bodies over the previous two years, up from 39% in 2024’s survey. Whereas COBIS famous that these adjustments diversified relying on particular person faculties’ area, will increase in college students from China was the most typical response.
UK faculties have lengthy been standard amongst Chinese language mother and father, with British training having fun with a stable fame world wide.
Nonetheless, outcomes from the COBIS survey recommend that British faculties based mostly within the UK could also be feeling the consequences of a authorities coverage charging personal faculties VAT on their charges – ensuing within the majority of unbiased faculties climbing up prices.
Some 18% of survey respondents stated they’d obtained admissions enquiries from households leaving the UK as a direct results of the coverage. Whereas the Okay-12 sector has fought extensively in opposition to the legislation change, three Excessive Courtroom judges finally dismissed a authorized case positing that the coverage was discriminatory and in opposition to human rights in a landmark choice final 12 months.
Talking concerning the outcomes of the survey, COBIS CEO Colin Bell stated that they pointed to “lots of positivity and optimism” within the Okay-12 sector, together with elevated demand for British training.
“However more difficult developments are additionally highlighted round wellbeing and psychological well being, trainer provide, and the influence of geo-political battle,” he stated.
However more difficult developments are additionally highlighted round wellbeing and psychological well being, trainer provide, and the influence of geo-political battle
Colin Bell, COBIS
Over half (55%) of faculty respondents stated they felt present and up to date geopolitical developments have been having both a major or average impact on their college or group. And greater than a 3rd (37%) stated they’d seen a rise in pupil nervousness consequently.
In the meantime, the price of UK greater training continues to be a barrier for worldwide college students, even these educated by British faculties.
For many who selected to review in international locations apart from the UK, the fee – together with the price of dwelling – was the highest issue believed to have influenced the choice.
