In the United Kingdom, the education system typically spans ages 4 to 18. It consists of three phases: Primary education for 4 – 11, Secondary education for 11 -16 and Further education for 16 – 18.
Primary education is split into stages: Key Stage 1 (KS1) and Key Stage 2 (KS2). KS1 (ages 4-7) and KS2 (ages 7-11) focus on core subjects like English and mathematics and a broad curriculum covering science, art, and physical education. KS2 builds on top of the knowledge and skills learnt from KS1. In addition to this, KS2 will also begin teaching foreign languages as well as having the students take national tests.
Secondary education in the UK also follows a similar structure, split into Key Stages 3 (KS3) and Key Stage 4 (KS4). Key Stage 3 serves as a foundation-building period, helping students with the more specialized and exam-focused learning they will encounter in Key Stage 4. In Key Stage 4, students undertake the General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) courses and examinations. GCSEs are standardized tests that allow students to specialize in subjects of their choice.
Further education is the final stage of the education system before higher education university, commonly for students ages 16 – 18. At this level, a range of courses is available for the students depending on the path they wish to take. The most common path is the A-levels. However, there are viable alternatives as well
