100% Pass Rate
All our students achieved a minimum of Grade 8
Summer 2021
100% of students achieved Grade 9
Summer 2022
75% achieved Grade 9
25% achieved Grade 8
Summer 2023
80% achieved Grade 9
20% achieved Grade 8
We are very proud to share the exceptional past results of our GCSE Russian classes, which demonstrate the outstanding accomplishments of our students. These results serve as a testament to the dedication and hard work put forth by both our students and our team of skilled teachers.
We are committed to fostering a supportive and motivating learning environment, empowering students to reach their full potential and excel in their studies. With a proven track record of remarkable results, we are confident in our ability to guide and inspire students on their journey to academic success.
Past GCSE Exam Results
Experience dynamic and collaborative Skype video lessons, creating an enriching learning environment for all students
💻
Lessons on Skype
Learn from professional Edexcel-trained teachers who are dedicated to making each learning experience truly rewarding
👩🏫
Highly Qualified Teachers
We keep our classes small, with up to eight students, to ensure that every learner receives individual attention
🏫
Small Class Sizes
Significantly elevate your understanding of key grammar concepts and expand your range of vocabulary
📚
Grammar Mastery
Improve your speaking and listening skills through interactive activities and engaging conversations
🗣️
Speaking & Listening
Sharpen your writing skills and learn how to express your ideas effectively and eloquently in Russian
✍️
Writing Skills
Gain valuable exam experience, practice time management, and identify areas for improvement to boost your confidence
📝
Mock Exams
Enhance your language proficiency while acquiring effective strategies to confidently tackle challenging exam questions
💡
Exam Excellence
Receive guidance and support in navigating the exam process, whether you're taking exams at school or an exam centre
❓
Enrollment Assistance
Secure your path to prestigious universities by demonstrating your commitment to extracurricular study
🎓
University Application Boost
Overview of Our GCSE Classes
01
1-Year GCSE Group Class
Our 1-Year Class offers a comprehensive learning experience for students who wish to complete the Russian GCSE by the end of the academic year. Our Edexcel-trained teachers guide students through the entire syllabus, providing thorough coverage of all exam topics. Designed for Year 11 students with a moderate level of proficiency in Russian, this class is ideal for those who aspire to accelerate their progress and achieve excellent exam results.
Lesson 1: Mondays 5-6pm
Lesson 2: Mondays 6:15-7:15pm
02
2-Year GCSE Group Class
Our 2-Year Class is designed to provide students with a well-paced approach to exam preparation. This extended course allows for in-depth exploration of the curriculum, giving students ample time to strengthen their language skills and knowledge of each topic, developing a deep understanding of the requirements for each exam. We recommend this class to all students in Year 10 and below who wish to improve their Russian language fluency and achieve top grades.
Lesson 1: Tuesdays 5-6pm
Lesson 2: Tuesdays 6:15-7:15pm
03
Private Tuition
For students seeking tailored guidance and personalised attention, this option offers a highly customised learning experience. Whether you require assistance in specific areas of the Russian GCSE or prefer a flexible learning schedule, our private lessons ensure that your unique learning goals are met. Benefit from focused 1-to-1 lessons, versatile study plans, and personalized feedback. Please note that this is the only option available for adults wishing to study the GCSE.
Choose the days and times that fit your schedule
You can join any class at any time of the year!
After you complete our registration form, we will promptly reach out to you for a brief phone consultation, where we will assist you in selecting the most suitable class
To accommodate every student's unique learning preferences, we offer three ways to study the Russian GCSE:
Choose Your Study Schedule
1-Year Group Class
£18
/hour
For students in Year 11 or below
Two one-hour Skype lessons per week
Complete exams in Summer 2024
Weekly homework tasks
Maximum class size of 8 students
Progress towards our A Level class
Lesson 1: Mondays 5-6pm
Lesson 2: Mondays 6:15-7:15pm
2-Year Group Class
£18
/hour
For students in Year 10 or below
Two one-hour Skype lessons per week
Complete exams in Summer 2025
Weekly homework tasks
Maximum class size of 8 students
Progress towards our A Level class
Lesson 1: Tuesdays 5-6pm
Lesson 2: Tuesdays 6:15-7:15pm
Payment
Once you have completed your trial lesson, we will send you an invoice via email for the remaining lessons of the school term. You have the option to make your payment online through credit or debit card, or via bank transfer. If you prefer to split your invoice into smaller payments, such as monthly payments, simply send us an email to info@volnaschool.com.
Refunds
Students unable to attend a scheduled lesson must inform us at least one day in advance and we will refund the full amount at the end of the school term. All authorised absences are refundable. Please refer to our Refund Policy for more details.
Tuition prices
Experience high-quality education at an affordable price!
🍂 Autumn Half Term 🍂
23/10/2023 - 29/10/2023
🎄 Christmas 🎄
21/12/2023 - 03/01/2024
🌸 Spring Half Term 🌸
12/02/2024 - 18/02/2024
🥚 Easter 🥚
01/04/2024 - 14/04/2024
☀️ Summer Half Term ☀️
27/05/2024 - 02/06/2024
🏖️ Summer Holiday 🏖️
begins on 29/07/2024
- Autumn Term (14.5 weeks) -
- Spring Term (11.5 weeks) -
- Summer Term (14 Weeks)* -
1-Year GCSE Group Class
Lesson 1: Mondays 5-6pm
Lesson 2: Mondays 6:15-7:15pm
2-Year GCSE Group Class
Lesson 1: Tuesdays 5-6pm
Lesson 2: Tuesdays 6:15-7:15pm
*Please note that our 1-Year Group Class will conclude lessons prior to the final Russian GCSE exam in May/June 2024, resulting in a shorter Summer Term. Our 2-Year Group Class will continue their studies until the Summer Holiday begins.
Paper code: 1RU0/1H
Exam time: 45 minutes (+5 minutes reading)
Total marks: 50
When is the exam? May/June 2024
Students are assessed on their understanding of standard spoken Russian by one or more speakers in a range of public and social settings. Students will respond to multiple-response and short-answer open-response questions based on a recording featuring male and female Russian speakers.
-
Section A is set in Russian. The instructions to students are in Russian.
-
Section B is set in English. The instructions to students are in English.
Paper code: 1RU0/2H
Exam time: 10-12 minutes (+12 minutes preparation time)
Total marks: 70
When is the exam? April/May 2024
Students are assessed on their ability to communicate and interact effectively through speaking in Russian for different purposes and in different settings.
-
Task 1 - a role play based on one topic that is allocated by Pearson.
-
Task 2 - questions based on a picture stimulus based on one topic that is allocated by Pearson.
-
Task 3 - conversation based on two themes. The first theme is based on the topic chosen by the student in advance of the assessment. The second theme is allocated by Pearson.
The assessments are conducted by teachers in one session within a prescribed assessment window, the recordings are then submitted to Pearson for external marking.
Paper code: 1RU0/3H
Exam time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Total marks: 50
When is the exam? May/June 2024
Students are assessed on their understanding of written Russian across a range of different types of texts, including advertisements, emails, letters, articles and literary texts. Students are required to respond to multiple-response and short-answer questions based on these texts.
-
Section A is set in English. The instructions to students are in English.
-
Section B is set in Russian. The instructions to students are in Russian.
-
Section C includes a translation passage from Russian into English with instructions in English.
Paper code: 1RU0/4H
Exam time: 1 hour and 25 minutes
Total marks: 60
When is the exam? May/June 2024
Students are assessed on their ability to communicate effectively through writing in Russian for different purposes and audiences. Students are required to produce responses of varying lengths and types to express ideas and opinions in Russian. The instructions to students are in Russian. Word counts are specified for each question. Students must answer all questions.
-
Two open-response questions and one translation into Russian.
Our dedicated teachers closely follow the Pearson (Edexcel) Russian GCSE specification, ensuring complete exam readiness for our students. Below, you will find the key elements of the specification. If you would like to access the full document, you can view the Pearson GCSE Russian Specification here.
Aims and Objectives
The aims and objectives of this qualification are to enable students to:
-
develop their ability to communicate confidently and coherently with native speakers in speech and writing, conveying what they want to say with increasing accuracy
-
express and develop thoughts and ideas spontaneously and fluently
-
listen to and understand clearly articulated, standard speech at near normal speed
-
deepen their knowledge about how language works and enrich their vocabulary in order for them to increase their independent use and understanding of extended language in a wide range of contexts
-
acquire new knowledge, skills, and ways of thinking through the ability to understand and respond to a rich range of authentic spoken and written material, adapted and abridged, as appropriate, including literary texts
-
develop awareness and understanding of the culture and identity of the countries and communities where the language is spoken
-
be encouraged to make appropriate links to other areas of the curriculum to enable bilingual and deeper learning, where the language may become a medium for constructing and applying knowledge
-
develop language-learning skills both for immediate use and to prepare them for further language study and use in school, higher education, or employment
-
develop language strategies, including repair strategies
Exam Overview
Each of the four exams is weighted equally, making up 25% of the total qualification.
Themes and Topics
There are 5 main themes in the Russian GCSE, with each theme having its own topics and subtopics. Students will study every topic in detail over the course of the academic year, learning all relevant vocabulary and grammar along the way.
Theme 1: Identity and culture
-
Who am I?: relationships; when I was younger; what my friends and family are like; what makes a good friend; interests; socialising with friends and family; role models
-
Daily life: customs and everyday life; food and drink; shopping; social media; technology
-
Cultural life: celebrations and festivals; reading; music; sport; film and television
Theme 2: Local area, holiday and travel
-
Holidays: preferences; experiences; destinations
-
Travel and tourist transactions: travel and accommodation; asking for help and dealing with problems; directions; eating out; shopping
-
Town, region and country: weather; places to see; things to do
Theme 3: School
-
What school is like: school types; school day; subjects; rules and pressures; celebrating success
-
School activities: school trips; events and exchanges
Theme 4: Future aspirations; study and work
-
Using language beyond the classroom: forming relationships; travel; employment
-
Ambitions: further study; volunteering; training
-
Work: jobs; careers and professions
Theme 5: International and global dimension
-
Bringing the world together: sports events; music events; campaigns and good causes
-
Environmental issues: being 'green'; access to natural resources
Pearson Russian GCSE Specification (1RU0)
Option 1: Take exams at your current school or college
Taking your exams at your school or college is highly recommended as it offers convenience and affordability. To begin the registration process, reach out to your school/college and inquire about enrolling as a candidate for the Edexcel Russian GCSE (1RU0, Higher Tier). We suggest contacting the Head of Languages or the Exams Officer as they can guide you through the entire process.
Opting for exams at your school or college provides several advantages. Firstly, all of your GCSE exams will be conducted in one familiar location, removing the need to travel to an external exam center. In case there is a scheduling conflict between a Russian exam and another GCSE exam, your school can make necessary adjustments. Furthermore, you will only be required to pay the registration fee, which is currently £46.10.
Please note that for the Speaking Exam, it is necessary to have a Russian-speaking member of staff to conduct the assessment. We understand that not all schools or colleges have a Russian-speaking staff member available to do this. In such cases, the alternative option would be to take your exams at an external exam centre. However, if your school or college is located in London or its surrounding counties, our GCSE teachers can come in to conduct the assessment. We offer this service at a fee of £50, excluding travel expenses. Feel free to contact us if you would like us to arrange this for you!
Option 2: Take exams at an exam centre in Buckinghamshire
We have partnered with the Buckinghamshire Adult Learning Centre, an exam centre in High Wycombe that hosts Russian GCSE exams for external candidates. This option is ideal for students that live nearby who are unable to register at their school or college, and also caters to homeschooling students in search of a convenient and accessible exam centre.
When considering different exam centres throughout the UK, opting for Buckinghamshire Adult Learning provides the most affordable choice. The total fees for external candidate registration, exam invigilation, room hire, and administrative expenses amount to £300. Please keep in mind that these costs may vary depending on the number of students registered. We are committed to keeping these fees at a minimum. By registering as an external candidate at this exam centre, our GCSE teachers will conduct your Speaking Exam during the designated assessment window, ensuring a comfortable experience for you.
Option 3: Take exams at a local exam centre
There are many exam centres across the UK that are registered with Edexcel and offer Russian GCSE exams. To view your local exam centres, you can visit the JCQ website by clicking here.
It is important to be aware that exam registration fees can be quite costly. Each exam centre sets its own pricing, and it is not uncommon for many centres to charge £100 or more for a single exam. However, we are here to support you in finding a local and cost-effective exam centre.
Regardless of whether you attend school or college, or are homeschooled, you always have the opportunity to register as a Russian GCSE candidate. Below, we have curated three convenient options for you to choose from when selecting your exam location. Our teachers are readily available to provide assistance and support throughout the entire exam registration process, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Taking Your Exams
We offer two mock exams each school year, one in the Spring Term and another in the Summer Term. While participation in these mock exams is optional, we highly recommend them as they serve as a valuable resource for students. Our mocks are conducted online via Zoom, providing students with an authentic exam environment for the best practice.
Mock exams give students the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the structure of each exam. By participating, students gain a clear understanding of what to expect during their actual exams and how to effectively manage their time.
The cost of our mock exams is £50, which covers invigilation and marking. Students will complete three past exam papers (Listening, Reading, and Writing) under strict exam conditions.
Following the completion and marking of the exam papers, students will receive valuable feedback highlighting areas that require further attention. In our virtual classroom, our teachers will utilize the mock exam results to assess each student's individual performance and provide specific areas for improvement.
Mock Exams
Upon completing our registration form, an automated confirmation email from info@volnaschool.com should be in your inbox. If you can't locate it, kindly check your "Spam" folder or the "Promotions" tab if using Gmail. To ensure our emails always reach you, consider adding our address to your email contacts. Rest assured, we only email you when the information is pertinent to your learning journey at Volna School.
Students will need a computer or laptop equipped with a functioning microphone, webcam, and Skype installed. While tablets and mobile phones can also be used, please note that the study experience might be compromised due to the smaller screen size and reduced functionality. We recommend using a computer or laptop for the optimal learning experience.
During your consultation, we'll ask for your Skype Name (found in your Skype profile). With your Skype Name, we'll add you to your chosen online class. Simply join the Skype video call at the start of each lesson. For more guidance, refer to the Skype support page by clicking here.
During the free first lesson, new students will get to know their teacher, explore an overview of the GCSE curriculum, and engage in fun introductory activities to ease into the learning process. Following the first lesson, if you wish to join one of our group classes, our experienced teachers will provide recommendations for the most suitable class (1-Year or 2-Year) based on their age and language proficiency. This ensures that each student embarks on a learning journey that aligns with their unique capabilities and aspirations.
Certainly, you're welcome to switch to another class at any time. Just send an email to info@volnaschool.com, and we'll get back to you promptly. Our teachers monitor each student's performance and effort, and they might suggest a different class that better suits your child's current level of Russian language proficiency. The final decision to transfer classes will be yours!
Absolutely! Our curriculum is designed to allow students to join classes anytime during the year. If you're joining a class already in progress, a few private lessons with our expert teachers can help you catch up swiftly.
Yes, we offer a range of learning materials tailored to the Russian GCSE. Lesson content and homework exercises will be sent digitally in the Skype group.
All our group classes align with English school terms, with lessons every week excluding half-term breaks and holidays. Please note that our calendar might differ from some schools' schedules. Click here to view and download our calendar for the current academic year. Private lessons may continue during holidays, subject to teacher availability. We might also introduce an Online Summer Course in the future for continued studies throughout the summer holidays.
We accept online invoice payments through debit or credit card, as well as through bank transfer. After your first free lesson, we will send you an invoice via email for the remaining lessons of the school term.
If a student can't attend a scheduled class, you can inform us via the group chat on Skype or by sending an email to info@volnaschool.com. Authorised absences, communicated at least one day before the lesson, are fully refundable at the end of each school term. You can view our Refund Policy for full details.
We understand that life's circumstances can change. Regardless of the reason, you'll receive a full refund for all upcoming lessons if you decide to leave our online school or take a learning break. Rest assured, we'll always welcome you back in the future!
Frequently asked questions
Parent Information
* required
Please provide your primary contact details so that we can get in touch with you to complete the enrollment process.
Student Information
* required
If you wish to register multiple students, please complete our registration form separately for each student.
If you are not sure which class to choose, we can discuss all available options with you in a brief consultation over the phone.
Lesson 1: Mondays 5-6pm
Lesson 2: Mondays 6:15-7:15pm
We highly recommend this class to Year 10/11 students who have a moderate level of Russian language proficiency.
Lesson 1: Tuesdays 5-6pm
Lesson 2: Tuesdays 6:15-7:15pm
Our 2-year class is ideal for students in Year 10 and below who have a foundational knowledge of the Russian language.
Upon registering for private tuition, we will get in touch with you to choose the best dates and times that suit with your schedule.
To ensure the best class placement, please provide the student's current level of Russian language proficiency:
An error occurred. Please check that all required fields have been filled and resubmit the form again. If this error persists, please contact us on 07881764892 to complete your registration.
Your registration has been submitted, thank you for enrolling at our school!
We will contact you within a day to have a brief consultation and book your first free lesson. Please note that we might take longer to contact you on weekends and school holidays.