Calendario Cultural – Setiembre: Education in the UK

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Education in the UK

In the UK, children are required to attend school from an early age. The overall education system is divided into primary, secondary, further education and higher education. Parents have to ensure that their children attend their lessons otherwise they can get into serious trouble.

Types of school:

It´s important to know that all children in England between the ages of 5 and 16 have a free place at a state school.

The most common ones are:

– community schools , controlled by the local council

– foundation schools and voluntary schools , which have more freedom to change the way they do things than community schools

– academies , run by a governing body – they can follow a different curriculum

– grammar schools , they select all or most of their pupils based on academic ability and there is often an exam to get in

*Most state schools have to follow the national curriculum , which is a set of subjects and standards used by primary and secondary schools so children learn the same things.

When does school start and holidays end?

School holiday dates in the UK can vary between the different local education authorities but most English schools go back between 1st September and 5th September.

Most children in England and Wales started their summer holidays at the end of July. They enjoy six weeks off school before returning in early September.

In Scotland, the holidays started at the end of June, and kids go back to school in the middle of August.

What are the school holiday and half term dates for the 2017/2018 academic year?

Again, school holiday and term time dates can vary depending on where students are.

  • School starts between September 1st and September 5th
  • Christmas holidays: Between December 20th and January 2nd
  • Easter holidays start on March 30th
  • Summer holiday starts: July 26th

Also there are half term breaks (usually a week off) in October, February and May.

Why would people choose to study in the UK?

The UK is a hugely popular destination for international students because of its cultural diversity, vibrant cities and highly regarded university system.

  • It´s a global nation: The UK is well-known for welcoming people, and has one of the world’s most multicultural populations. Nearly every major cultural event is celebrated here.
  • The UK is famous for its history, which can be experienced all over the country. Its extraordinary heritage includes Stone Age sites, impressive castles and magnificent palaces. The UK is also home to some of the best museums in the world.
  • Global centre of business . There are fantastic opportunities for students to gain valuable work experience and build personal and professional networks.
  • The UK has a passion for It hosts globally famous competitions such as Premier League football and Wimbledon tennis.
  • The UK has produced world-famous artists like The Beatles, Adele and Coldplay.

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