What Makes A Great School? 5 Unique Characteristics That Boost Academic Outcomes

What exactly makes a great school? For parents deciding where to send their child to school, the question of what makes a school a good one is critical, but the answer is often unclear.

Aside from the community itself, there are 5 unique characteristics of online learning at CGA that sets it apart from other private, online, and traditional schools. These key policies are designed to create a flexible, supportive learning environment where students excel academically.

In our latest blog post, discover the distinct qualities and their benefits that make a school great.

1. Ability-Based Enrolment

CGA allows students to enrol in courses based on their academic readiness rather than age or grade level.

For advanced learners who feel unchallenged and bored at a traditional school, they can accelerate their studies at CGA because of the 'ability not age' policy by starting subjects earlier, progressing to higher levels more quickly, and adding more subjects. For students who need additional support, they can repeat courses without stigma.

This flexibility ensures every student learns at the pace most suitable to them, fostering confidence and mastery of subjects. Such personalised pathways are linked to better academic performance, increased student engagement​ and success beyond school.

CGA is not a selective school but with this policy, the school has always attracted ambitious students who feel unstimulated at school.

2. Small Class Sizes

Class sizes average 10–12 students per class. This ensures personalised attention and opportunities for meaningful interaction with teachers.

Research consistently shows that smaller classes lead to improved student outcomes, as teachers can focus more on individual needs and provide timely feedback. CGA’s approach ensures that every student is seen and supported, laying the groundwork for academic success

3. Class Recordings for Flexible Learning

Every live class is recorded, giving students the ability to revisit lessons for exam preparation or catch up if they miss a session.

This feature is a game-changer for students balancing other commitments, such as sports like ballet , motorsports racing, or extracurricular activities, and has been shown to improve retention and understanding. This flexibility empowers student to take ownership of their learning​.

4. International A Levels Curriculum

One of the most important factors in what makes a great school is the school's curriculum.

As a global online private school, our curriculum knows no geographical bounds. We offer students a choice of rigorous and highly respected international curriculums, no matter where they live:

• - A Levels
• - IGCSEs
• - US High School Diploma
• - and the Advanced Placements (APs)

A Levels, unlike systems that rely on cohort scaling or rigid grading structures such as the Australian ATAR, allow students to focus deeply on their strengths, promoting higher academic achievement.

CGA students consistently perform well, with many achieving top grades that enable them to secure places at world-leading universities like Oxford and Princeton​.

In addition, the Advanced Placements as part of the US High School Diploma programme are also offered as a university-level of coursework to stretch a student’s learning while standing out as a top university applicant.

5. Rigorous Teacher Hiring Policy

The sentiment 'a school is only as good as it's teachers' is something we firmly believe in at CGA. The calibre of a school's academic faculty is a key ingredient to what makes a great school, and is essential to your child's academic success.

CGA has a highly selective teacher recruitment process, hiring experienced educators with an average of 20 years of teaching expertise.

Teachers focus solely on instruction, not administrative tasks, ensuring their energy is devoted entirely to engaging classes that lead to student success. The presence of engaged, expert educators is critical in fostering academic excellence, and CGA’s faculty is a cornerstone of its outstanding results​.

CGA students frequently outperform their peers at traditional schools offering A Levels. With many achieving A* and A grades, CGA graduates are well-prepared for competitive university admissions globally, securing spots at institutions such as Oxford, Cambridge, and Ivy League schools.

CGA's Unique Policies Make a Truly Great School

A truly great school goes beyond the basics to create an environment where every student can thrive academically, socially, and personally.

At CGA, the combination of ability-based enrolment, small class sizes, flexible learning options, a globally recognised curriculum, and exceptional teachers ensures that students receive an education tailored to their needs and aspirations.

These unique characteristics not only boost academic outcomes but also empower students to reach their full potential and achieve their dreams.

For families seeking an innovative, results-driven approach to education, CGA offers a proven pathway to success. Ready to learn more? Explore how our programmes can transform your child’s learning journey today.