Dear Parents,
This academic year, I would like to invite you to a series of information sessions entitled “British Education: A Parent’s Guide.”
We will explore the British education system, choosing GCSE and A-level subjects, preparing for examinations and university applications, as well as how to help children make confident decisions about their future.
A little about me
My name is Elena Carter. I am the Head of Cambridge Russian School and the founder of Future Focus Education, an educational organisation specialising in academic support, educational consultancy, and guidance on admissions to British schools and universities.
My many years of experience in education have taught me to look beyond academic achievement and consider the wider development of each child, including their abilities, interests and future opportunities.
Our first session Saturday, 24 October 2026 – “After GCSEs: Choosing a Sixth Form, A-levels, IB and the Right Educational Pathway”
Particularly relevant for parents of students in Years 9–11.
Choosing what to study after GCSEs is one of the most important educational decisions young people and their families face. The qualifications and subjects they choose can significantly influence their future university options.
During this session, we will discuss:
- The differences between school sixth forms and sixth form colleges.
- The opportunities offered by A-levels, the IB Diploma and other Level 3 qualifications.
- How to choose A-level subjects based on a child’s interests, strengths and university entry requirements.
- The GCSE grades required for different post-16 programmes.
- When to choose a sixth form, submit applications and prepare for entrance assessments.
- Common mistakes families make when planning the next stage of education.
Why is this session particularly relevant now?
Autumn in Year 11 is when many families begin choosing sixth forms and preparing applications for the following academic year. Understanding the options early helps avoid missed deadlines and keeps as many opportunities open as possible.
There will also be an opportunity to ask questions and discuss individual circumstances.
Session details
- Date: Saturday, 24 October 2026
- Time: 3.00–3.45 pm
- Venue: Room G2
- Admission: Free for Cambridge Russian School parents and students; £5 per person for guests.
- Registration: Please reply to this email with your name and your child’s school year.
Our next session — Saturday, 7 November 2026
“GCSE and A-level Russian: Everything Parents Need to Know”
- Time: 4.00–4.45 pm
- Venue: Room G103
We invite parents to an information session dedicated to Russian language examinations within the British education system. We will discuss GCSE and A-level Russian, examination structures, candidate requirements, assessment criteria and how to prepare effectively for these qualifications.
Speakers and discussion participants:
Elena Carter, Lilia Kopanitsa, Marina Olefir, Olga Romanova and Olga Sands — representatives of Cambridge Russian School, including teachers who prepare students for GCSE and A-level Russian examinations and experienced examiners.
Parents will have the opportunity to ask questions, receive practical advice and gain a better understanding of how to support their children’s examination preparation.
Programme of future sessions
28 November 2026 – After GCSEs: Choosing a Sixth Form, A-levels, IB and Other Educational Pathways.
16 January 2027 – Choosing GCSE Subjects: What Parents Need to Know.
13 February 2027 – Understanding the British Education System: From Primary School to University.
13 March 2027 – GCSEs: Why Aren’t My Child’s Grades Improving Despite Their Efforts?
24 April 2027 – Applying to British Universities: What Matters in Years 10, 11 and 12.
15 May 2027 – Helping Your Child Become an Independent Learner.
19 June 2027 – Helping Teenagers Make Informed Choices About Their Future.
Each session will last approximately 45–60 minutes.
Admission and registration – All sessions are free for Cambridge Russian School parents and students. Admission for guests is £5 per person.
To register for the sessions on 24 October or 7 November, please email jelena.carter01@gmail.com with your name and your child’s age. The meeting will be run in Russian.
You are very welcome to invite friends and acquaintances who may be interested in these topics. You are also encouraged to send questions in advance or suggest topics for future sessions.
I hope these meetings will help you gain a clearer understanding of the British education system and make informed decisions about your children’s educational future.
I look forward to seeing you!