The Schools System

Understand how England's education system works, from primary through to sixth form. This section explains school types, age groups, and how the system is organised to help you navigate your choices.

Choosing a Specialist School

Specialist schools focus on particular subjects while teaching the full national curriculum, here's what you need to know about how they work and admissions.

Get a Place at Grammar School

How to get into grammar school through entrance tests and selective admission in the UK.

Lottery for School Places

How catchment areas and location affect your chances of getting your child into a school in the UK.

Parent Teacher Associations

Parent Teacher Associations bring parents and teachers together to support children's education and welfare through regular meetings and open dialogue.

Rules and Regulations Surrounding School Trips

Know what safety rules and regulations your school should follow when planning student trips.

School Admission Rules

How the 2007 School Admissions Code changed the way UK schools allocate places to students.

School League Tables

School league tables measure how well schools teach the national curriculum and help parents understand which schools are performing best.

School Trips: What Parents Should Know

School trips involve health, safety and money considerations, here's what parents should know about responsibility, organisation and risk assessments.

School Uniforms and Financial Help

Help with the cost of school uniforms if you're struggling to afford them on a low income.

Should Children Born in Summer Start School Later?

Summer-born children can sometimes defer school start dates until January, giving them extra time to mature before starting school.

The Schools System in the UK

How the UK school system works, from pre-school through secondary education and the age requirements for each stage.

What Are Foundation and Trust Schools?

Foundation and trust schools are state-funded but run by governing bodies that have more control over hiring, admissions and how the school operates.