Forum United Kingdom

[joanb]

My family is considering relocating to the UK. We're actually going to be making a decision very shortly, but one of my main reservations is my lack of knowledge about the school system for young children. My older son is 4 now and will turn 5 in August. I think that puts him in line for going straight into Year 1 according to the UK system, but I'm concerned he's not prepared for that. He's only been attending preschool here in the US 3 days a week for 3 hours a day.

Does anyone know if a just turned five year old would be elgible for Reception instead of Year 1? Has anyone had a child start in the UK system at age 5 without much school prep prior to that?

Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

[EasyExpat]

Indeed if the child is already 5 year old on September, 1st, he will go to Year 1 (age 5 to 6). Before that age, it depends only on the private sector and they are called preparatory (prep) schools (age 4 to 5). Therefore it is not mandatory (but highly recommended for people who can afford it!).
At yound age children might struggle with the level at school but studies have shown that when a few years older they catch up quickly and it might even become an advantage.

[briankeating]

If your son is 5 years old then it good for you and him to put him in school Grade 1. According to me if your child joins Preparatory Schools North London at this age then it would be highly beneficial for him in his future.