Primary education: aged 4-11 (13)

Entry to preparatory school

English parents who wish to give their children an excellent education, and who have have the money to do so, plan their child's education literally from birth. Despite the high cost of private schools, competition for places is still fierce, with 25-30 children competing for one place.

A child under the age of 6 or 7 is tested in a relaxed setting at the school.

Children over the age of 7-8 must undertake a fairly serious test of English and mathematics. Russian children are usually strong in mathematics and are therefore given some allowance in English. If successful they will receive additional English tuition during the first six months.