ABSTRACT
Although still in a minority, there has been an increase in numbers of international students joining undergraduate education studies degrees in the UK in recent years. This chapter, co-authored by current and recent international education students, explores the many reasons why this group elect to study in the UK. Reasons include perceived prestige and quality of the higher education system, prior familiarity with English language and culture, and links with institutions in their home countries. Drawing on literature pertaining to the UK education studies context the chapter notes that, whilst international students typically enjoy and value the transition to UK study, there can be many personal, linguistic, social, cultural and academic challenges. International students bring distinct perspectives to the study of education which are of great value to home students and staff, but can also find engaging with the complexities of UK education policy and culture difficult at times. The chapter concludes with a range of practical suggestions for how international students can be supported within the undergraduate subject of education, and how staff and home students can contribute to a learning environment which benefits and includes everyone.
