Education

Overseas professional and diplomatic staff receive education allowance for up to three dependent children. An education allowance, to assist with tuition fees, board and lodging only, is paid as a reimbursable cost for dependant children up to the age of 23, provided they are in continuing full-time education in a fee paying institution at the time of appointment. The allowance is paid at the rate of:

• Up to £3,000 per child per annum for pre-primary school
• Up to £4,000 per child per annum for primary & secondary school
• Up to £5,000 per child per annum, for tertiary education (only for the first tertiary degree)

In cases where a dependent child is in full time education overseas, the amount allocated may be used towards air fares for visits to parent(s) in London.

There are private run and state run educational institutions. State-run schools accept students from the school district and are generally free or one may be required to pay a nominal fee. The private institutions charge approximately £3000 per term for day schools and approx £8000 for boarding schools. The quality of schools varies. It is therefore important to decide on your housing in conjunction with the school of your choice. The academic year runs from September to May.

Some useful education links:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/education/6235715.stm

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/education

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/EducationAndLearning/index.htm

http://www.dfes.gov.uk/