UK Education system, Sats Grading, stages, How to Apply in school, International Student admission in the UK
When it comes to choosing an education system for their children, many families opt for the United Kingdom due to its renowned quality. In fact, in 2021, the UK was ranked second globally for its educational excellence. Whether you’re considering a move to the UK as a family unit or an international student, this guide is here to address any questions you may have regarding education in the UK.
Educational Stages in the UK
The UK education system is structured into four key stages that encompass various age groups:
- Key Stage 1: Ages 5 to 7
- Key Stage 2: Ages 7 to 11
- Key Stage 3: Ages 11 to 14
- Key Stage 4: Ages 14 to 16
Early Stages Education (Pre-School Education)
Parents of children in this age group have been entitled to 15 hours of nursery education for 38 weeks of the year. This early education takes place in settings such as nurseries, and privately run childminding homes. Formal testing is not required; instead, progress is reviewed when children are two or three years old and at the end of the school year when they turn five.
Education in the UK begins at around three or four years of age. Since September 2010, The childcare offering in England has provided various levels of support to parents and carers of young children:
- All parents and carers of 3 and 4-year-olds are entitled to 15 hours of free weekly childcare support with registered providers.
- Eligible working parents and carers of children aged 3-4 can receive an additional 15 hours of childcare support, totaling 30 hours a week.
- Some parents of 2-year-olds may also qualify for 15 hours of support.
These hours are available for 38 weeks during the year (typically during school term time), but in some cases, they can be used over 52 weeks, depending on the childcare provider’s policies. Additionally, you can use Tax-Free Childcare or Universal Credit for Childcare while claiming your 15 or 30 hours of childcare support.
Children’s progress is assessed through the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, which incorporates play-based learning across various subjects, including communication and language, physical development, mathematics, literacy, and social development.
Looking ahead to the upcoming expansion of Early Stages Education (Pre-School Education):
Starting in April 2024, the existing childcare support will undergo a phased expansion. By September 2025, most working families with children under 5 will be eligible for 30 hours of childcare support.
These changes are being introduced gradually to ensure that childcare providers can accommodate the needs of more families. Here’s a breakdown:
- In April 2024, working parents of 2-year-olds will gain access to 15 hours of childcare support.
- From September 2024, 15 hours of childcare support will be extended to working parents of children aged 9 months to 3 years.
- Finally, from September 2025, working parents of children under 5 will be entitled to 30 hours of weekly childcare.
Similar to the existing offering, depending on your provider, you can use these hours over 38 weeks or up to 52 weeks if you use fewer than your total allocated hours per week.
Primary Education System
Primary school in the UK typically starts when a child is just under 5 years old. This stage comprises three age groups: nursery and reception (under 5), Key Stage 1 (5 to 7 or 8), and Key Stage 2 (up to 11 or 12). Primary education’s primary objective is to establish a strong foundation for literacy and numeracy skills. Subjects covered during this stage include English, Maths, Science, History, Geography, Art and Design, Music, Physical Education, and Ancient and Modern Foreign Languages. Standard Assessment Tests (SATs)
Standard Assessment Tests (SATs)
Standard Assessment Tests (SATs) are conducted at Key Stage 1 (year two or age 7) and Key Stage 2 (year 6 or age 11) to assess mathematics, reading comprehension, and English grammar proficiency. A score of 100 or higher indicates meeting the government’s expected standard.
Sats grading system
A scaled score of 100 or higher signifies that a child is performing at the anticipated level, denoted as ‘AS,’ while a score below 100 indicates that a child has not met the government’s expected standard, referred to as ‘NS.’ The highest achievable score is 120, and the lowest is 80.
Secondary Education System
Secondary school in the UK commences at age 11, spanning from year 7 (age 11 to 12) to year 11. Students in these years study English, Maths, Sciences, a Humanities course, and a Modern Language. They may also opt for elective subjects like Computer Science, Drama, Art, Music, or Latin. Some students take the Common Entrance exam in year 7, which is held three times a year (November, January, and May/June), potentially influencing their acceptance into grade 9. Year 9 is pivotal in the UK school system as it marks the transition from Junior School to Senior School and serves as a foundation for the GCSE program. The last two years (years 10 and 11) are critical as students sit for their General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) exams.
Further Education System
At age 16, students can pursue further education to earn A-Level (advanced level) qualifications. Students typically specialize in three or four subjects, with one potentially being their intended field of study at university. Alternatively, students interested in a broader curriculum can opt for the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. The UK also offers BTEC courses for hands-on learning in specific subjects, featuring assessments after each unit rather than at the program’s end.
Higher Education System
The UK offers three-year university programs culminating in Bachelor’s degree qualifications, including Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Engineering (BEng), or Bachelor of Science (BSc). Additionally, one- to two-year vocational diploma programs are available. Afterward, students can pursue further studies through Master’s programs or Postdoctorates.
The UK boasts prestigious universities like Oxford and Cambridge, along with other institutions known for their research breakthroughs, such as Imperial College in London. With around 164 higher education institutions in the UK, you’ll likely find a program suitable for your academic aspirations.
UK School Grading Systems
As of 2018, the UK GCSE grading system ranks from 1 to 9, with 9 representing the highest level of achievement. University grading is categorized as follows:
- Grade A: 70% – 100% (Excellent to Outstanding, PASS)
- Grade B: 60% – 69% (Good to Very Good, PASS)
- Grade C: 50% – 59% (Satisfying, PASS)
- Grade D: 40% – 49% (Sufficient, PASS)
- Grade E: 30% – 39% (Unsatisfactory, FAIL)
- Grade F: 0% – 29% (Unsatisfactory, FAIL)
School Admissions: How to Apply in School?
The application process for a place at a local school in the UK depends on your council district. Applications should be submitted through your local council, even if you plan to move or have recently moved to England. You may be required to provide proof of address to establish residency.
For primary schools, applications should be submitted a year before the child starts school, with the deadline on 15 January. For secondary schools, the deadline is 31 October, and notification of acceptance is typically provided on 1 March. If the school year has already commenced, contact your local council to inquire about available spaces.
Studying in the UK as an International Student
International students should note that not all higher education providers in the UK are referred to as universities. The institution must meet specific criteria, including approval by the Privy Council under the Further and Higher Education Act 1992 or approval under the provisions of the Companies Act 2006. International students aged 16 and residing in the European Economic Area or Switzerland can apply for a Tier 4 visa (General student), the official student visa in the UK. Adequate financial planning is essential for visa approval, demonstrating the ability to fund tuition fees and other expenses.
To apply to study in the UK, international students will typically need to meet the following requirements:
- Have the required academic qualifications
- Meet the English language requirements
- Have a valid passport and visa
International students can apply to study in the UK through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) or directly to the institution they want to study at.
Is education free in the UK?
In the UK, education is free for students attending state-funded primary and secondary schools. Parents typically cover expenses like school uniforms and supplies. Voluntary contributions for extracurricular activities may be requested, but they are not mandatory. Private schools charge tuition fees, and higher education, such as university, is not free for domestic students, although financial aid options are available. Nursery education for children under five may receive partial government funding, but additional hours or services may involve fees.
Make your move as smooth as possible
Moving to a new country to study can be a daunting experience, but there are a few things you can do to make your move as smooth as possible:
- Plan ahead: Start planning your move early so that you have enough time to get everything in order.
- Research the UK:Â Learn as much as you can about the UK before you move, including the culture, customs, education system, grading system, and Student Visa Fees, and Choosing the Right Bank in the UK
- Connect with other international students: There are many online and offline communities for international students in the UK. Connecting with other international students can help you feel less alone and get support and advice.
