WHEN TO GO ON EXCHANGE?

A good deal of thought needs to be given about when to go on exchange. Most RS schools prefer a student to go some time between S2 and S4. Obviously, there is a good deal of flexibility - there has to be, especially when students have important examinations to take. From a Markham angle, S4 and UB would not be the best time to go because of IGCSE and IB examinations. In theory, it should be possible to go on exchange at any other time, AND AT ANY TIME OF THE YEAR. The whole point of exchange is to experience study, travel and life in another country, hosted by another school. This is not possible when the hosting school is on holiday! Most Northern Hemisphere school begin the school year on or around 1 September, finishing in July. Most Southern Hemisphere schools have similar calendars to Markham:

Markham's main 2006 dates are:Bimester 1    March 1 - May 5Bimester 2    May 15 - July 14Bimester 3    August 7 - October 6Bimester 4    October 16 - December 20Be aware though that not all schools operate a two semester/four bimester year. The British tradition follows a three term (trimester) year, divided into six half-terms. Finding the right time is a matter of negotiation between the hosting school and the exchange applicant. As for duration of exchange, the consensus is that it should be for a meaningful period of time. Two weeks is not enough - that's being a tourist. Even a month is considered too short by some schools. Most schools would prefer you to be there for a full half-term (six weeks) at least, so that you begin and end with minimal disruption to their school organisation.

As for type of exchange, you normally go as a student, and follow normal classes like every other student there. UB students have a special type of exchange though. This is called a GAP year, and is usually for 6, 9 or 12 months. This is a longer period of time when they are looking for some refreshing and worldly experience before beginning their university studies. Such an experience is not normally as a student, but as a student-assistant, helping out with language classes, sports and administration. There may even be some nominal remuneration in recognition of the assistance offered. A GAP year is recognised as the ultimate pre-university experience; it demonstrates motivation, interest, courage, leadership, internationalism, flexibility, individuality and adventure, which are qualities that are highly admired by universities and highly sought after by employers. A GAP year experience on your CV is a fantastic attribute to have.