Education
- Applying for a school place
- The school curriculum
- Making career choices
- The role of parents
- Going to university
- Early years education
- Adult education
If you’re bringing your children to the UK you may need to find them a school to attend. Most children start school in the September after their fourth birthday. State education is provided free of charge.
The school leaving age will depend on where you live.
Applying for a school place
The process of finding and applying for a school can vary depending on where you live.
School websites will have key information, including how they are performing and any recent inspections.
There are also many independent schools for children of all ages in the UK. Some are day schools and some are boarding schools. These all charge fees.
The school curriculum
Each of the four countries of the UK plans its own curriculum, which describes the topics that are taught in school. They have much in common but there are regional differences. Welsh language, for example, is taught in Wales. Examinations are taken in school years 11 (age 15–16) and 13 (age 17–18).
The curriculum has key stages which are used to set out clearly what you can expect your child to be learning and helps with assessing their progress.
Making career choices
Students receive careers education when they have to choose their future pathways through education. In Year 9 (age 13–14) they will be selecting the subjects to concentrate on for examinations when they are 16. Between 16 and 18, they will be making decisions about higher education and employment.
The role of parents
As a parent, you will be expected to take an active part in supporting your child’s education. That may include making sure homework is done, buying the correct uniform and making sure your child wears it. Parents often go into schools to help in the classroom in a variety of ways. Most schools have a parents’ association which raises funds and organises social events for parents.
You will receive reports and the chance to meet with the teachers to discuss your child’s work and progress. Many schools send out a regular newsletter to tell you what’s going on.
As a parent you must make sure your children attend school. If a child is ill, you must contact the school and explain the absence straight away. You’re not allowed to take children on holiday during term time – you may be fined if you do so.
Going to university
Many people go to university at the age of 18. In England, Wales and Northern Ireland most students have to pay tuition fees. The amount depends on where in the UK they’re from and where they study. Students from Scotland don’t pay fees if they study in Scotland.
You may be able to borrow money to pay for tuition fees and to help with living costs.
Early years education
Although children don’t have to go to school until the September after their fourth birthday, many will spend some time in an educational setting before then. Settings can include childminders, preschools, nurseries and school reception classes. There will also be standards in these settings for the learning, development and care of your child.
Adult education
Some colleges offer courses to adults over the age of 18, including English for speakers of other languages, literacy and numeracy, and skills for employment. There are also classes for those who just want to study, meet other people and develop a skill or hobby. There are fees for these courses, although you may be able to get help with paying for them.