Everything you need to understand how UK education works — from Early Years to university. Interactive tools let you explore what your child learns at every age and stage.
From Early Years to A-Levels — understand the 6 stages every child moves through, year by year.
What your child learns at every stage — 12 subjects explored in detail with our interactive Subject Explorer.
Phonics checks, SATs, GCSEs — every assessment milestone from Reception to Year 11 explained.
GCSEs vs A-Levels vs IB vs BTECs — side-by-side comparison to help you understand every pathway.
Community, academy, grammar, independent, faith — what makes each school type different and who they suit.
Deadlines, criteria, oversubscription rules — how to apply for state and independent schools.
Visas, guardianship, school placements, EAL support — everything you need if you're moving to the UK.
Children must be in full-time education by the term after their 5th birthday. Most begin Reception (age 4–5) in September.
National tests taken at the end of Year 6 (age 10–11) in English and Maths. Results help secondary schools understand each pupil's level.
No. Scotland has its own Curriculum for Excellence, with Nationals and Highers instead of GCSEs and A-Levels.
Only maintained schools must. Academies have flexibility, and independent schools set their own curriculum.
Content sourced from Department for Education National Curriculum framework documents. For official programmes of study, visit GOV.UK.