North London Collegiate School Jeju (NLCS)
The North London Collegiate School (NLCS) Jeju is an international school located in the Jeju English Education City, South Korea. Established in 2011, it is a British-style educational institution offering a comprehensive curriculum from kindergarten to high school. The school provides a unique opportunity for students to receive both domestic and international recognition for their academic achievements.
The school follows a 13-year system with primary, middle, and high school levels. It implements the IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education) program in years 10 and 11, and the IBDP (International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme) for years 12 and 13. Students are required to study Korean language and history, making it well-suited for Korean students seeking a blend of international and local education.
1. History and Background
NLCS Jeju, located in Seogwipo, Jeju Island, South Korea, was established in 2011 as part of the international expansion of the prestigious North London Collegiate School (NLCS) in the UK. The original NLCS, founded in 1850, is one of the oldest and most respected independent schools in the UK. The Jeju campus follows the same ethos of academic excellence, emphasizing both rigorous academic standards and a holistic educational approach. The school was designed to provide students with an international education while also incorporating elements of Korean culture
2. Curriculum and Educational Programs
NLCS Jeju offers a British-style curriculum that includes the following key stages:
Early Years and Primary School (Kindergarten to Year 6): The early years and primary school curriculum is based on the British educational system, fostering a strong foundation in literacy, numeracy, and personal development. Students are encouraged to explore, learn, and develop through a variety of subjects, including arts, science, and languages.
IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education) Years 10 and 11: From Year 10 onwards, students follow the IGCSE program, which is widely recognized globally. This stage allows students to specialize in subjects that align with their interests and strengths. The IGCSE curriculum includes a broad range of subjects, from mathematics and sciences to the humanities and languages
IBDP (International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme) Years 12 and 13: For the final two years, NLCS Jeju offers the IBDP, an internationally respected qualification that prepares students for university and beyond. The IBDP includes six subjects (across different disciplines), a core that involves theory of knowledge (TOK), extended essay (EE), and creativity, activity, and service (CAS) components. The IBDP program is known for its academic rigor and focus on developing critical thinking and global perspective
The school combines the best elements of both international and Korean education, with students learning subjects like Korean language and history, ensuring they are well-prepared for both local and global challenges
Through these programs, NLCS Jeju maintains its high academic standards, consistently achieving excellent results in both IGCSE and IB assessments, with many students gaining admission to top universities worldwide, especially in the UK, the US, and other prestigious institutions
3. Cultural Environment
NLCS Jeju offers a rich cultural environment that blends both international and Korean elements. It fosters a multicultural atmosphere where students from various nationalities and backgrounds come together. The school follows a British curriculum, which brings an international perspective to the educational experience, while also integrating Korean language and history into the curriculum. This dual approach helps students develop a strong sense of both local and global identity.
Additionally, NLCS Jeju emphasizes the importance of the arts, music, and sports as part of a holistic education. The school encourages students to engage in a wide range of extracurricular activities, such as drama, music, and visual arts, enabling them to explore their creativity and develop critical skills that are essential in a global society. The diverse student body also contributes to the school's vibrant cultural exchange, allowing students to learn from each other’s experiences and perspectives.
4. Facilities and Campus
NLCS Jeju is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities designed to support academic and extracurricular activities. The school is located in the Jeju English Education City, a purpose-built environment that provides an ideal setting for international schools. Key facilities include:
Academic Buildings: Modern classrooms, science labs, and computer facilities equipped with the latest technology support the academic curriculum. The school ensures that students have access to resources that enhance their learning experiences.
Sports and Recreation: The school boasts a well-equipped sports complex with facilities for various sports, including a swimming pool, gymnasium, and outdoor playing fields. These facilities allow students to engage in a wide range of athletic activities, contributing to both physical health and team-building skills
Arts and Performance Spaces: There are dedicated art studios and performance spaces, including a theatre and music rooms, where students can explore their artistic talents. The school encourages participation in cultural activities such as music performances, theater productions, and art exhibitions
Residential and Boarding: For students who live on campus, NLCS Jeju provides modern boarding facilities, creating a supportive community for students to grow and learn in a nurturing environment. The boarding houses foster international friendships and offer a comfortable living space that encourages independence and personal development
With these facilities, NLCS Jeju offers a dynamic and enriching environment that supports academic success while also promoting physical, emotional, and cultural growth. The combination of world-class resources and a culturally diverse setting makes it a unique place for students to thrive.