The British Education System:

The British Education system consists of 4 levels starting with Primary School, Secondary School, Further Education (Sixth Form or College), and Higher Education which includes undergraduate or bachelors’ studies and postgraduate studies or Masters degrees and PhDs.

Primary School:

In the UK, Primary School begins for children from the age 5 up until the age of 11. It is considered key stages one and two of the UK education system.

Primary School can be further defined as Infants and Juniors. The age range of Infants ranges from 5 – 7 years, while Juniors range from 7 – 11 years. While it is common for both to study at the same location, each has its own school.

The year groups at the Primary School level are:

Year R (Reception) (age 4 – 5)

Year 1 (age 5 – 6)

Year 2 (age 6 – 7) The year when SATs testing takes place for Key Stage 1

Year 3 (age 7 – 8)

Year 4 (age 8 – 9)

Year 5 (age 9 – 10)

Year 6 (age 10 – 11) The year when SATs testing takes place for Key Stage 2

Subjects which are covered in Key Stages 1 and 2 are the same:

• English
• Maths
• Science
• Design and technology
• Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
• History
• Geography
• Art and design
• Music
• Physical education