A Fresh Start in Year 9
Starting at a new school can be both exciting and nerve-wracking, but joining an independent school in Year 9 offers a fantastic opportunity for a fresh start. Many students enter at this stage, meaning there are plenty of new faces and opportunities to form friendships. At Ealing Independent College (EIC), we provide a small, friendly and supportive environment in which all students can thrive both inside and outside the classroom. There are many reasons why students love being part of the EIC community. But don’t just take our word for it; hear from some of our Year 9 students themselves.
Why Join in Year 9?
Year 9 is a natural entry point for many independent schools and an academic milestone as students start to prepare for their GCSEs. At EIC, we strongly recommend that students join us in Year 9 for a pre-GCSE year to allow them to prepare fully for this next important stage of their education.
When it comes to choosing GCSE subjects, we offer a flexible and personalised approach to learning, allowing students to focus on their strengths and interests. We know that one size doesn’t fit all, so whether they want to concentrate on core subjects or explore a wider curriculum, our small class sizes and tailored support help them build confidence and achieve their full potential.
“When I first joined EIC, I was excited about all the opportunities the school offered. The atmosphere here is calm and welcoming, and I love subjects like sociology and business, subjects that many other schools don’t offer in Year 9. The teachers are incredibly kind, and EIC has even helped me become more confident in things I had never imagined.” – Amaani, Year 9 student
Settling In – The Year 9 Experience
Adjusting to a new school can feel overwhelming, but at EIC, our commitment to inclusion ensures every student feels welcomed and supported from day one. Students come to us from many different educational backgrounds. Our experienced staff take the time to understand each student’s individual needs, and we provide tailored support for those with Special Educational Needs (SEN) to ensure a smooth transition.
“Joining EIC was a big change for me, especially since I had been out of school for two years due to anxiety. One thing I love about EIC is the smaller size and the fact that classes are interactive and engaging. We don’t just sit and listen; we actively participate, which makes learning much more enjoyable. Over time, I’ve gone from not attending school at all to coming in regularly, and every day gets easier. I really like the people, the teachers, and the supportive environment where I never feel pressured. It’s a place where I feel understood and comfortable.” – Lily, Year 9 student
What Makes Ealing Independent College Special?
At EIC, education is about more than just academics; it’s about creating a learning environment where students feel valued and inspired with excellent pastoral care. With no dress code, students can express themselves comfortably, while our small class sizes mean teachers truly get to know each student, fostering strong relationships and tailored support.
Our commitment to regular communication and feedback ensures that both students and parents feel informed and involved in the learning journey. Students can progress at their own pace while maintaining high academic standards. We encourage students to participate in clubs and extracurricular activities, but they are never forced, empowering them to take control of their learning and interests. Our strong exam results at GCSE and A Level open doors to top universities in the UK and worldwide, helping students achieve their aspirations.
“I really enjoy being at EIC because the teachers are always willing to help. It’s reassuring to know they care about my success and are there to support me whenever I need it.” – Razak, Year 9 student
“When I first joined EIC, I felt nervous about meeting new people, as I’m not naturally very social. However, I was quickly welcomed by everyone, which made me feel comfortable. Over time, EIC has helped me become more confident and social, and I’ve grown as a person in ways I never expected.” – Micaiah, Year 9 student
“Starting at EIC was a huge change for me, especially since I hadn’t been able to attend school for months due to anxiety. But everyone here is so kind and welcoming that I never feel anxious about coming to school anymore. The teachers are patient and truly take the time to make sure we understand the material. At EIC, learning feels comfortable and supportive.” – Inka, Year 9 student
“Starting at EIC was a big change for me because I came from a much larger school. The atmosphere here is relaxing and calm, which makes it easy to come into school every day. I really appreciate the peaceful environment.” – Matthew, Year 9 student
“At EIC, there’s much more trust and freedom compared to my old school. The small class sizes help me focus, and the lessons are interactive and easy to understand. The teachers are always willing to support me and ensure that I grasp the material. I’ve learned a lot about American history, and I’m thoroughly enjoying my experience at EIC.” – Alex, Year 9 student
“Starting at EIC was a big change for me, but I quickly realised that learning here is different in a good way. The school has a positive and happy atmosphere, and I’ve learned that it’s okay to ask questions when I don’t understand something. EIC has helped me grow in confidence, especially in sports.” – Yusuf, Year 9 student
“My time at EIC has been unforgettable. I’ve learned so much, both socially and academically. Coming from a previous school where the environment was disruptive and I often felt neglected, EIC has been a refreshing change. The atmosphere here is relaxed, and the teachers are always there to help when I don’t understand something. The rules are clear, and I know I can always count on the teachers for support.” – Esmael, Year 9 student
Interested in Learning More?
Choosing the right school is an important decision, and Year 9 is the perfect time to join us at EIC. Whether your child is looking for a more personalised learning environment, greater subject flexibility, or the opportunity to achieve top GCSE and A Level results, we provide the ideal setting for academic and personal success. Our students go on to attend top universities in the UK and internationally; could your child be next?
If you’re considering joining Ealing Independent College in Year 9, the best way to experience our unique learning environment is to see it for yourself. We invite you to book a visit, meet our staff and students, and discover how we can help your child succeed. Contact our Admissions Officer on (+44) 020 8579 6668 or enquire today to find out more.