International pupils join Northbourne Park through one of three pathways. The right choice depends on your child’s age, language background and how long they plan to stay. This page sets out the options clearly, so you can identify the best fit before making an enquiry.
Comparing the pathways
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English system |
Section Française Bilingue |
Advanced Programme |
| Who it is for |
International pupils joining the British curriculum |
French-speaking or bilingual pupils following the CNED French curriculum |
High-ability French-speaking pupils studying in both systems |
| Age range |
Year 3 to Year 9 (ages 8–14) |
CM2 to 4e |
5e level only |
| Language of instruction |
100% English |
French and English (approx. 50:50) |
Both systems simultaneously |
| English qualification* |
KET, PET or FCE |
KET, PET or FCE |
FCE |
| French qualification* |
None |
CNED + Lycée de Londres exams |
CNED + Common Entrance |
| Minimum stay |
One month |
One month (One term recommended) |
One year |
| English required |
Little or none (Years 3–6); basic to intermediate (Years 7–8) |
None required |
Strong — working towards FCE |
| Selection |
Informal interview with Head Teacher + school reports |
Informal interview with Head Teacher + school reports |
MidYIS assessment + Head Teacher's discretion |
*Examinations taken dependent on time and duration of course.
How long can pupils stay?
|
One month From £6,500
The shortest term-time stay. Pupils follow the full curriculum and boarding routine. Available in term time only, usually in the month of June.
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One term £12,000 per term
Long enough to sit Cambridge English examinations (depending on term of arrival), build lasting friendships and make measurable progress in English. Pupils receive a teacher’s report at the end of their stay.
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One year or longer £36,000 per annum
The fullest experience. Formal reports in the Autumn and Summer Terms, parent evening with remote options, and the complete curriculum. Year 7 and Year 8 pupils may work towards Common Entrance examinations depending on their future plans.
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No fixed intake windows operate. Pupils may join at any point in the academic year, subject to availability.
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Advanced Programme
For a small number of high-ability French-speaking pupils at 5e level with strong English, studying in both systems simultaneously. Admission is selective and at the Headmaster's discretion.
Age range: 5e level only
English level: Strong English required. Pupils should already be working towards FCE.
Course length: One year minimum (Common Entrance is a two-year course; Advanced Programme pupils join mid-way through Year 8).
Qualifications: ISEB Common Entrance. CNED. Cambridge FCE. Lycée Français de Londres examinations for eligible pupils.
Advanced Programme — full details
Summer options
For families considering a shorter introduction to school life at Northbourne Park, two summer programmes are available.
| Summer Immersion Programme |
Five to seven weeks of language learning, curriculum lessons and boarding life. Pupils join English-system or SFB classes and receive intensive English tuition in the first week, followed by normal school activities and a residential trip, depending on age. Ages 8 and above. Arrival Sunday 6 June 2027, end Friday 2 July 2027.
Find out more about the Summer Immersion Programme |
| English Summer Adventure Camp |
Two weeks of English language tuition, outdoor adventure and sport. Sunday 4 July to Sunday 18 July 2027.
Find out more about the Summer Camp |