The education system in the United Kingdom is separated into four major parts: basic education, secondary education, further education, and higher education. Children in the United Kingdom are legally required to attend primary and secondary school, which lasts from the age of five to sixteen.
The education system in the UK is also divided into “key stages,” which break down as follows.
- Key Stage 1: 5 to 7 years old
- Key Stage 2: 7 to 11 years old
- Key Stage 3: 11 to 14 years old
- Key Stage 4: 14 to 16 years old
In general, key stages 1 and 2 will be completed at primary school, and when a pupil reaches the age of 11, they will move on to secondary school to complete key stages 3 and 4.
Students are evaluated at the conclusion of each stage. The most critical examination happens at age 16, when students take their GCSEs, or General Certificate of Secondary Education. Once pupils have completed their GCSEs, they have the option of continuing their education and potentially pursuing higher education, or finishing school and entering the workforce.
Our review of the educational system in the UK is organized into five major sections:
Primary Education
Primary education in the United Kingdom begins at the age of five and lasts until the age of eleven, and it includes key stages one and two of the UK educational system. For further information on primary education, please visit the British Council’s page.
Secondary Education
From the ages of 11 to 16, children will enter secondary school for key stages three and four, beginning their journey towards GCSEs – read more about secondary education in the UK and what it entails. Primary and secondary education are compulsory in the United Kingdom; education after the age of 16 is voluntary.
Further Education
After completing secondary education, students have the choice of continuing their education to pursue A-Levels, GNVQs, BTECs, or other similar degrees. UK students intending to attend college or university must finish additional schooling.
Higher Education
Probably the most significant topic on this website, this section discusses the UK higher education system and how it works for international students. Most international students will enter the UK higher education system directly after completing their home country’s version of “further education.”
Entry Requirements
Each level of education in the UK has different standards that must be met in order to get admission – discover more about the education entry requirements in the UK.
UK Degree Online
As online programs become more popular, the availability of high-quality online programs increases. If you want to acquire a UK-accredited degree without having to relocate to the United Kingdom, studying online is an excellent alternative. Obtaining a UK approved degree online allows you to adapt your studies around your schedule and save money on travel expenses while still having access to a wide range of quality programs.