More than 90 percent of pupils in the UK attend publicly-funded state schools.  Approximately 8.5 million children attend one of the 30,000 schools in England and Wales; in Scotland, 830,000 children attend about 5,000 schools, including pre-schools and other special education schools; and Northern Ireland sends 350,000 children to 1,300 state schools. Primary schools usually include both girls and boys as pupils. Secondary schools may be either single-sex or co-educational.

The relevant education departments in England, Scotland and Wales dispense funding for schools through a Local Education Authority (or Education Authority in Scotland). In Northern Ireland, schools are largely financed from public funds through five Education and Library Boards.

Learn more about education in the UK at the primary and secondary school level:

National Curriculum in England, Wales and Northern Ireland       

Scotland's National Qualifications and Curriculum       
Slightly different than the qualifications for students in England, Northern Ireland, and Wales, Scotland has its own framework for secondary level education.  We explain the differences.   

Choosing an Independent, Private Primary School       

If you are moving to the UK and considering private education for your child, several organizations provide guides to assist you in choosing a private, independent primary school.

Education Departments in the UK       

Assessment, Grading and Examinations       
Find additional information on the UK's national curriculum, testing, and UK secondary school degrees (known in the UK as qualifications).   

Inspection of Schools       
Research standards for schools and inspections of schools.   

Teaching       
Learn about professional training, recruitment, and policy for UK educators.   

UK Education Press       
Explore recent developments and issues in UK education.   

Department for Children, Schools, and Families (DCSF)

Department for Innovation, Universities, & Skills (DIUS)

The Scottish Government Education and Training       

Department of Education Northern Ireland (DENI)

Department for Employment and Learning, Northern Ireland (DELNI)

Department for Children, Education, Lifelong Learning and Skills, Wales