Isle of Man Finance

State Education

A combination of the best in traditional and modern approaches to teaching and learning continues to ensure high standards throughout the Island educational system. Schools are well maintained and well resourced with books, computers and equipment. The pupil to teacher ratio is generous resulting in small sized teaching groups. Island culture and history is taught to all children from the age of five. All children from the age of seven study French and Manx Gaelic language is also offered from the age of seven, but only to those whose parents wish their children to be involved. In 2006 the Department of Education launched “Freedom to Flourish: A Curriculum for Learning and Achievement” which has encouraged all schools to focus on learning outcomes – the 6 Rs: Readiness; Relationships which are Positive; Resourcefulness; Resilience; Remembering Skills and Reflectiveness. In an initiative hailed as a great success, schools have been challenged to make the curriculum creative, inspirational, aspirational and motivational.

The Island’s youngsters achieve good results at General Certificate of Secondary Education examinations at age sixteen. On average, pupils sat 9.4 GCSEs each in 2007, keeping all options for future study and employment open. The progressing rate into sixth form is high, with students obtaining excellent results across a wide range of Advanced Level subjects. In 2007 the number of passes at grades A and B (43.5%) was a record high. Each of the Island’s five comprehensive secondary schools has a reputation for academic success. An impressive range of facilities, from sports halls to Information Technology areas, are to be found at all secondary schools. Between the sixth form and the Isle of Man College a very wide range of courses are on offer including A levels, Applied GCEs, National Certificates, National Diplomas and NVQs.

For students wishing to pursue university qualifications, the Isle of Man Government meets the university fees and provides a means tested maintenance grant system.

Independent Education

Independent education in the Isle of Man is provided by King William’s College and the Buchan School. The two schools merged in 1991 to make a continuous educational provision for boys and girls, day pupils and boarders from the age of 4 to 18. Pupils follow a range of extra curricular activities and almost all Sixth Form leavers proceed to Higher Education having followed courses in the International Baccalaureate.

Key Information:

• Small class sizes with a wide ranging curriculum

• Excellent academic, vocational and sporting facilities

• First class secondary, higher and further education