Stuart Ansell highlighted several factors contributing to the appeal of overseas education for Nigerian families, including gaining international exposure, achieving academic and sporting excellence, and improving opportunities for securing a spot in top universities.
Nigerian families are increasingly turning to overseas education options for their children. Education expert Stuart Ansell has shed light on the reasons behind this trend, emphasizing the appeal of UK boarding schools for their strong academic performance and excellent pastoral care, creating a nurturing environment for boarding students.
Ansell, along with principals and educational leaders from select London schools, is scheduled to visit Lagos and Abuja next month. During this visit, he will delve into the factors driving the interest in overseas education among Nigerian families. These factors include the opportunity for international exposure, the pursuit of academic and sporting excellence, and improved prospects for admission to top universities.
Event details
The visit is organized by Mark Brooks Education in collaboration with the UK’s Department for Business and Trade. It encompasses a range of activities, including receptions, seminars and exhibitions, aimed at fostering connections and sharing insights.
A networking reception on Sept. 30 kickstarted the event, enabling visiting heads and school leaders to engage with parents. Subsequently, a 30-minute seminar on “Helping Teenagers to Thrive” was conducted by education specialists.
The summit’s culmination on Sunday, Oct. 15, will feature a new event titled “Lagos to London,” which Ansell believes will provide an opportunity for potential parents to learn more about the education offerings, undertake entrance tests and interviews, all while avoiding overcrowding.
Academic excellence
Henrietta Lightwood from Cardiff Sixth Form College stressed that academic excellence plays a pivotal role in the preference for UK schools. Not only do students from West Africa enrich the academic community, but they also receive offers from some of the world’s top universities.
Sarah Matthews, Head at Truro High School for Girls, expressed her anticipation for the education summit and acknowledged the warm welcome she receives in West Africa. She highlighted her school’s commitment to providing a safe and affordable learning environment where girls can flourish.
Recent official immigration statistics reveal a remarkable eight-fold increase in the number of Nigerians granted sponsored study visas for the United Kingdom over the past four years. Brian Wilson, former programs director at the British Council, noted that more than 18,000 Nigerian students have chosen undergraduate and postgraduate courses in Britain during his tenure at the organization.
