The UK has a strong state school system that provides free education for all. Any child living in the UK can attend a local state school if they have the right of residence in the country.
State system of school education
This age range includes two parts of the UK education system: primary and secondary school. England follows the National Curriculum, which is made up of blocks of years called Key Stages. Key Stage 1 for primary school pupils aged 5 to 7 years. Key Stage 2 for learning children aged 7 to 11 years. Pupils aged 11 to 14 undergo the third stage of compulsory education. To some extent, this period of their learning is very important as in just a few years they will be taking their national GCSEs (General Certificates of Secondary Education). The last stage of compulsory education, Key Stage 4, lasts from 14 to 16 years. At this stage, students take national assessment tests which will lead them to GCSEs (General Certificates of Secondary Education) or other national qualifications.
Information for Ukrainians 2022
The Government's Home for Ukraine scheme aims to enable tens of thousands of people, including school children, to flee the war in Ukraine and come to the UK. Refugee children have the same right to education as any other child.
In fact, it is a legal requirement that they study until the age of 18. Parents (and sponsors) of Ukrainian schoolchildren should apply to local authorities for a place in the school.
The Department has prepared a useful manual in English and Ukrainian:
How can families arriving from Ukraine apply for a place in school and childcare?
How can families coming from Ukraine submit applications to the site for school places and assistance in paying for childcare services?
How to choose a school?
The state school is chosen according to the place of residence. https://www.goodschoolsguide.co.uk/choosing-a-school/state-schools/finding-the-right-primary-school
List of documents
For foreign students, there is no single list of documents for schools, so you need to contact the school directly to receive a list of documents.
Features of private schools
The United Kingdom has a very large selection of private (fee) secondary schools as well as well-known independent schools. Search for private schools using the school finder. You can find information about tuition fees, religious affiliation and tuition assistance such as bursaries: https://www.isc.co.uk/schools/.
Language of education
English
Visa, visa issues
If your child between the ages of 4 and 17 wants to study in the UK and is not part of the government scheme "Home for Ukraine", then you can apply for a child student visa.
Among the list of required documents:
confirmation that there is a place for you at the school;
confirmation of having sufficient money to live in the UK and pay for studies;
parental or guardian consent to study in the UK.
More details: https://cutt.ly/RZNa684
Important links