Frequently Asked Questions

Home Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions about WICA

Curriculum

WICA uses the Cambridge curriculum, which is well-rounded, interdisciplinary, and designed to provide students with a curricular advantage. This curriculum is designed to provide students with a broader and deeper education, allowing them to achieve top grades and secure a place at top universities.

The differences between GCSE and IGCSE lie in their international recognition and examination options. IGCSEs are globally respected two-year courses available worldwide, with some subjects incorporating more globalized content. They offer exams in three sessions per year (May-June, November, or January) to accommodate students. At Wheaton International Christian Academy, IGCSEs are assessed solely through examinations. Our online schooling program ensures students have access to both GCSEs and IGCSEs, providing a comprehensive and internationally recognized education.

Students have the opportunity to review any classes they may have missed since they joined our institution by utilizing recorded sessions. Additionally, they can avail themselves of the learning platform to access all the necessary course materials and assignments for the ongoing year, except for expired exams.

You can find more information about the WICA curriculum here. Click here

At Wheaton International Christian Academy (WICA), we follow the Cambridge pathway for our IGCSE subjects. We adhere to the CAIE (Cambridge Assessment International Education) syllabus, which is designed to provide a comprehensive and globally recognized education. Detailed information about the Cambridge pathway and the CAIE syllabus can be found on our subject pages :

The key stages at WICA align with the Cambridge International curriculum and are as follows:

1. Key Stage 2 (KS2): KS2 is designed for students aged 7 to 11 years old. At this stage, students build upon their foundational knowledge and skills, focusing on core subjects such as English, mathematics, and science. They gradually become more independent learners and are prepared for the next stage of their education.

2. Key Stage 3 (KS3): KS3 caters to students aged 11 to 14 years old. It represents the transition from primary to secondary education. Students engage in a broad and balanced curriculum, including subjects like English, mathematics, science, languages, humanities, and arts, which provide them with a solid foundation for their future studies.

3. Key Stage 4 (KS4): KS4 is for students aged 14 to 16 years old. This stage is crucial as it leads to formal examinations and qualifications such as the Cambridge IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education). Students can choose from a range of subjects to study in greater depth, preparing them for further education or entering the workforce.

These key stages at WICA ensure a progressive and comprehensive education, fostering students' growth and development in accordance with the Cambridge curriculum. By following this structured framework, WICA aims to provide students aged 7 and above with a high-quality online learning experience that prepares them for their academic and personal journey.

Joining WICA

WICA is an educational institution that specifically caters to Christian students. While we maintain an inclusive environment, our admissions criteria prioritize students of the Christian faith. We embrace individuals from diverse backgrounds without the need for specific minimum grades or entry assessments.

This policy is applicable across all year groups and academic paths. Furthermore, it's essential to highlight that proficiency in English reading, writing, and speaking is a prerequisite for enrollment at WICA.

At WICA (Wheaton International Christian Academy), we embrace a flexible schooling model known as flexi-schooling or hybrid schooling. This approach allows our students to have scheduled time away from regular lessons, with prior agreement, to explore various sports, entrepreneurial pursuits, or engage in additional study opportunities.

To facilitate convenient learning, we provide video-recorded lessons that are accessible to all students. This means that students have the flexibility to review and revisit lessons at their own pace and convenience, making catching up on missed content and revision a seamless process.

If you would like to enrol your child or children, kindly complete the school's application form https://wica.uk/online-education-registration.php

It is advisable for parents to plan ahead and join our school's waiting list at their earliest convenience. In cases where an urgent school placement is needed, parents are advised to complete an enhanced application, for which more information can be provided.

Absolutely! At WICA, we understand the needs of highly qualified working professionals who value both academic rigor and flexibility to accommodate their busy lifestyles. As a parent, you can rest assured that your involvement during your child's classes or the need to support their learning is not required.

Online learning at WICA instills independence in children from an early age, fostering their ability to organize themselves and overcome challenges with minimal supervision or instruction. Developing independent learners is highly valued by top universities and employers alike. Our dedicated teachers at WICA deliver engaging, stimulating, and focused lessons that are easily comprehensible. As a result, students actively engage in their lessons, stay on track, gain confidence, and achieve success.

With WICA, parents can work and live their lives without constant worries about checking in on their child, as our program promotes self-sufficiency and student progress.

In order to enroll at WICA, you will be required to submit a copy of your child's birth certificate or passport. Additionally, proof of address must be provided, which can be in the form of a utility bill, bank statement, or any official document issued within the last 3 months. Alternatively, you may submit a copy of your driving license or council tax bill as proof of address.

Yes, WICA accepts enrollments throughout the year. To register, simply fill out our straightforward online form available at this link: https://wica.uk/online-education-registration.php

Absolutely! At WICA, we ensure that students who join us during the middle of a term are provided with access to previous learning materials. This enables them to catch up on any missed content independently, outside their regular timetabled lessons.

No, your child doesn't need to attend a traditional physical school. At WICA online school, your child can continue their education seamlessly. We provide live lessons, interactive resources, and skilled teachers, offering a complete and accredited curriculum. Students actively participate in various subjects and extracurriculars while receiving personalized attention. Our online platform maintains high educational standards, ensuring academic excellence.

Certainly! Students have the opportunity to study with WICA from any location across the globe. We provide a timetable to cater to various time zones, ensuring flexibility and accessibility for our international student body.

For the academic year 2024-25, WICA program is designed for children in grades 1 to 8.

At WICA, one of the key advantages of online learning is our digital platform, which allows teachers to personalize education for each student. Through our pupil platform, we diligently monitor the progress of every learner, enabling teachers to identify students who may require extra support before they fall behind.

Unlike in a conventional or mainstream school, our students have the flexibility to catch up on missed lessons or revisit previous content at any time. With 24/7 access to lesson recordings, this feature is particularly beneficial for learners who may have medical appointments or experience illness-related absences.

At WICA, students have abundant chances to socialize with their fellow classmates, fostering lasting friendships. Within the classroom, lessons are designed to be interactive, encouraging students to collaborate in small groups using our digital breakout rooms.

Beyond the confines of the virtual classroom, we provide a diverse array of clubs, extracurricular activities, common rooms and social platforms. Students can actively engage in these opportunities to develop their leadership abilities and teamwork skills, participating in initiatives such as the student council or contributing to our student-led newspaper.

The regulations governing online education vary from one country to another. To obtain the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is recommended to visit the official website of your country's government education department or directly contact them for detailed guidance.

In order to study at WICA, students are required to possess proficiency in the English language, encompassing reading, writing, and speaking skills.

The online learning environment provided by WICA offers significant benefits to students with ADHD and learning difficulties like dyslexia.

With the availability of lesson recordings for 24/7 access, students can revisit previous classes for additional support. This feature alleviates the pressure of comprehending everything in real-time and allows students to work through the content at their own pace.

Moreover, these learners often find comfort in the controlled learning environment of their own homes. Our digital classrooms are thoughtfully designed to minimize negative behaviour and disruptions. Private teacher chat options empower students to answer questions without the fear of making mistakes in front of their peers.

At WICA, we do not currently offer free trial opportunities for our services. We understand that prospective users may be interested in experiencing our offerings before committing to them. However, to ensure fairness and consistency for all users, we have opted not to provide free trials. We believe that our robust curriculum, experienced teachers, and comprehensive learning environment speak for themselves in delivering a high-quality educational experience. If you have any specific questions or would like more information about our services, we are more than happy to assist you.

No need to delay! WICA welcomes enrollments at any time throughout the year. You can easily register by completing our straightforward online form, which can be found here:

The enrollment process at WICA typically requires a minimum of 48 hours to complete. However, depending on the time of year and various factors such as the timely submission of required documents and fees, as well as the enrollment demand during peak seasons, it may take up to 2 weeks. To ensure a smooth enrollment experience, we recommend registering at least one to two weeks prior to your intended start date.

At WICA, we accept enrolments throughout the year. To register, please complete our simple online form available at

WICA (Wheaton International Christian Academy) embraces an inclusive approach as a non-selective school, welcoming students from all backgrounds without the need for entry tests. However, it is essential that students possess proficiency in English writing, reading, and speaking in order to pursue their studies with us.

Teaching & Learning

At WICA, parents have the convenience of notifying us about their child's absence through the parent portal. We understand that some students may not be able to attend every lesson, which is why we offer a flexible learning approach. All classes are recorded and made available for viewing at any time, providing the flexibility to catch up on missed lessons.

At WICA, all classes are conducted through live online sessions, offering interactive features. Students engage with their teachers and peers using video, audio, and text, following the scheduled timetables. Additionally, to accommodate flexibility, we record each live lesson. These recordings, along with accompanying lesson resources, are accessible round-the-clock, allowing students to view them at their convenience.

At WICA, students have the opportunity to seek additional help from their teachers in core subjects (English, Maths, and Science). Our dedicated wellbeing team is available to assist students in creating effective study plans. The availability of lesson recordings allows learners to revisit previous lessons, helping them to reinforce their understanding of challenging concepts.

At WICA, our teachers employ a range of tools and instructional approaches to customize the learning experience for each student. This ensures that all learners receive the necessary support or are appropriately challenged, fostering continuous academic growth. Various resources such as breakout rooms for collaborative tasks and self-assessment quizzes are utilized to enhance the learning process.

Students at WICA will participate in a baseline assessment twice a year, as well as regular informal assessments like weekly quizzes. Additionally, teachers administer comprehensive assessments, such as written assignments, at the conclusion of each topic to assess students' depth of understanding.

This well-structured assessment framework allows for efficient monitoring of students' progress, ensuring that learners receive appropriate support or challenges without undue academic pressure. If a student is identified as lagging behind or surpassing expectations, teachers can modify their content accordingly to suit their needs.

Typically, students are assigned approximately one homework task per subject per week, although the specific amount may vary depending on individual teachers' discretion. These homework assignments can encompass various formats such as short quizzes, handwritten or drawn tasks, longer written assignments, and more.

Yes, pupils will need textbooks.

The course content at WICA may vary due to differences in exam boards and schools. As a result, the subjects and topics covered in your child's studies may differ from those in other educational institutions.

Easily monitor your child's progress through the user-friendly parent portal at WICA. By accessing your personalized dashboard, you can stay informed about your child's attendance and review their reports. Additionally, you can track your child's assignment grades and receive valuable feedback from their teachers from the user-friendly WICA app.

IGCSEs and A Levels are internationally recognized and held in high regard by educational institutions and employers worldwide. These qualifications not only provide a strong academic foundation but also impart valuable transferable skills applicable to both higher education and professional settings.

In the UK, all universities accept IGCSE and A Level qualifications. Most renowned international universities also recognize the value of IGCSEs and A Levels, but it is recommended to verify their individual policies for your child's desired university.

WICA offers a flexible learning approach, perfect for students who may not be able to attend every lesson. All classes are recorded and made available for viewing at any time, providing 24/7 accessibility. If learners miss a class, they are free to watch the lesson recording at their convenience.

Parents and guardians have the freedom to communicate with teachers at any point during the academic year. The email addresses of all your child's teachers can be accessed on the parent portal dashboard.

As a parent, you won't be required to actively participate in your child's classes or provide support for their learning if they are beyond the Prep age of 7-10 years. Online learning fosters independence in children from an early age, teaching them how to organize themselves and overcome challenges with minimal supervision. Developing independent learners is highly valued by top universities and employers. At WICA, our teachers deliver engaging and focused lessons that are easy to follow, enabling students to stay attentive, gain confidence, and achieve success.

As a WICA parent, you can have peace of mind knowing that you can focus on your work and personal life without constantly checking up on your child.

By default, your child will be assigned to the year group corresponding to their age unless you specify otherwise.

At WICA, students have various chances to connect with their peers and form lasting friendships. During class, lessons encourage interaction, and students frequently collaborate in small groups using our digital breakout rooms.

The examination center where your child takes their IGCSE or A Level exams will furnish you with their results once they become available. These grades can be utilized for applications to Sixth Forms, colleges, or universities.

While WICA does not distribute a certificate at the conclusion of the academic year, we do supply families with progress reports at the end of each term. If you require a letter verifying your child's enrollment at WICA, please reach out to us through the provided contact.

Certainly! Students have the option to send emails to their subject teacher whenever necessary. Teachers will respond based on their availability and the urgency of the inquiry.

Although attending lessons is strongly encouraged, we understand the importance of flexibility for our students. If a student happens to miss a class, they have the convenience of accessing lesson recordings at any time, 24/7, to catch up on the material.

At present, our instructional sessions are exclusively conducted in English, and we do not provide lessons in any other languages.

While WICA, does not currently provide additional support for students with learning difficulties, many learners in this category discover that online schooling aligns well with their preferred learning approach. For instance, with unrestricted access to lesson recordings and resources at all times, students with learning difficulties have the freedom to progress at their own speed.

At WICA, the examination center will furnish you with your child's ICGSE or A Level results as soon as they become available. These grades can be utilized for applications to Sixth Forms, colleges, or universities.

Although WICA does not issue a certificate at the end of the academic year, we do provide families with progress reports at the conclusion of each term. If you require a letter confirming your child's enrollment at WICA, please reach out to us at office@wica.uk

With our esteemed curriculum options, accomplished and knowledgeable teaching faculty, and a well-established online learning model, you can have full confidence that your child will receive an exceptional education at WICA.

Our adherence to the National Curriculum ensures a comprehensive educational foundation for students. In addition, we place great emphasis on all other essential elements of the educational journey. From fostering social interactions and providing university guidance to prioritizing the well-being of our students, we take pride in creating a vibrant global community and delivering an exemplary learning environment.

Indeed WICA ensures individualized attention for each student, facilitating better understanding and knowledge retention. By utilizing an independent curriculum and advanced online learning software, students benefit from an optimized learning experience. The dedicated, qualified subject specialist teachers closely monitor students' progress, addressing weaknesses and enhancing strengths. As a result, WICA students outperform their peers of similar ability, thanks to the focused education, timely support, and superior academic guidance provided by the school.

View Resources

The school communicates with parents through the app and through the parent portal, where you will receive important announcements, notifications, and updates about your child's education, school events, and other relevant information. It also enables emailing with teachers for effective and convenient communication.

You can access homework assignments and tests on the school app or the student portal under your respective class. The materials will be available for you to download or complete online. Make sure to regularly check the app for updates and deadlines to stay on top of your assignments.

Timing

No, once the timetable is set, students are not able to make changes to it. The timetabling process is carefully designed to ensure a balanced schedule for all students and to accommodate the availability of teachers and resources. Changes to the timetable can disrupt the learning environment and may cause scheduling conflicts. Therefore, it is not possible for students to make alterations to their assigned timetable.

Fees

Click here to view

WICA offers an affordable alternative to traditional independent and private schools, with fees significantly lower than their counterparts where you can save on transport, meals, uniform etc.

For detailed information, please refer to the comprehensive breakdown of the school's annual fee structure click here to view

For further details, please refer to our fees page at the following click here to view

Certainly! When you enroll additional siblings at our school, you will be eligible for a discount. The discount amount will be determined based on the time of year the additional sibling(s) join the school, and it will be deducted from the total annual fees of the student. However, it's important to note that the sibling discount is not applicable to students on a Rolling Contract.

Fees are to be paid at the start of the semester.

For further details, please refer to our fees page at the following click here to view

Exams

At WICA, the IGCSEs and A Levels offered are widely recognized and accepted by sixth forms, colleges, and universities globally.

Universities in the UK accept IGCSE and A Level qualifications, and many top international universities also recognize them. However, it is recommended to verify the specific admission requirements of your child's chosen university.

At WICA, we strongly recommend that all students study the core package appropriate for their Key Stage.

The IGCSEs and A Levels offered at WICA are globally recognized and accepted by sixth forms, colleges, and universities worldwide

The students at WICA take their IGCSE or A level examinations administered by CAIE

You can locate an examination center independently using the following links:

For IGCSEs:

For A Levels:

Please note that most of our A Levels are assessed through Cambridge International. However, A Level Biology, Chemistry, and Physics are assessed through Edexcel. A Level Classical Civilisation and Media Studies (UK only) are assessed through OCR. A Level German and Politics (UK only) are assessed through AQA.

If you require assistance in locating an examination center, our exams team is available to provide guidance and help you find a suitable option in both the UK and international locations. Additionally, we have compiled a list of recommended exam centers that accept private (external) candidates for your convenience: Click here to view

IGCSEs -

A Levels -

Our exams team can supply you with a selection of nearby exam centres available for both UK and international students to choose from. While we cannot handle the registration on your behalf, we will provide you with all the necessary examination entry codes to assist you in the registration process.

Examination fees are separate from the tuition fees at WICA and are not included.

The fees for examinations may differ depending on the chosen exam center. It is recommended to contact your preferred exam center directly for precise and up-to-date information. Generally, the payment to the exam center is around £150-220 GBP per qualification (not per individual examination).

Exam centers can be found in various countries worldwide. In the event that there is no exam center in your current country of residence, we will make every effort to assist you in locating an alternative center that is within a reasonable distance for you to travel.

Once we receive the official notification from the exam boards, we will promptly notify all families about the scheduled dates for the IGCSE and A Level exams.

When booking examinations, it is important to inform your chosen exam centre about any Special Consideration or Access Arrangements your child may require, such as extra time or the use of a laptop. Each exam centre has its own policy on how to arrange these accommodations.

For students with dyslexia and learning difficulties, an assessment by an educational psychologist or approved specialist is necessary to determine the appropriate arrangements.

Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, mental health needs, or medical needs will generally need to provide evidence from a consultant (within the past two years) confirming their need for Access Arrangements.

If needed, WICA can provide a statement about your child's usual way of working to support your request.

Technical Requirements

Computer/laptop, stable internet connection, web browser, video conferencing software, learning management system (LMS), microphone, webcam, headphones, and relevant educational software/tools. For further information, please visithttps://wica.uk/technical-requirement-for-online-learning.php

If you need technical assistance, please reach out to our support team via email. Provide a detailed description of the issue you're facing, including any error messages or screenshots. Our team will promptly assist you in resolving the problem.

To access class materials, simply log in to our school app using your unique credentials. Navigate to the designated section for your class, where you will find organized folders with all the relevant materials, such as lecture notes, assignments, and supplementary resources.

Parent App

Our school app provides a convenient and centralized platform for parents to access important information about their child's education. It enables quick communication with teachers, access to student progress reports, and updates on school events. It ensures efficient and streamlined communication between parents, teachers, and the school administration.

On the app, you can access your child's class materials, communicate with teachers, receive updates on school events, view student progress reports, and stay informed about important announcements. It provides a convenient platform for you to actively engage in your child's education and stay connected with the school community.