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Key Stages 1,2,3
In the UK, nation curriculum in primary and secondary schools is divided into key stages, each with a corresponding age group and key milestones. Key stages are often abbreviated in 'KS' followed by a number. Compulsory national curriculum comprises of compulsory subjects and tests at each key stage. Independent schools do not have to follow the national curriculum and will follow their own criteria for curriculum and assessment.
KS1 and 2
Compulsory primary education in the UK is divided into Key Stages 1 and 2. Pupils in key stage 1 are typically in Years 1 and 2 (ages 5-7), whereas in key stage 2, pupils are in years 3-6 (ages 7-11). Pupils in KS1 will be assessed with a phonetics screening test by their teacher in year 1, and KS1 national curriculum tests (sometimes referred to as KS1 SATs) in English reading, English grammar, punctuation and spelling, and mathematics in year 2.
At the end of KS2, children in year 6 will sit national curriculum tests in English grammar, punctuation and spelling, English reading, and mathematics. These tests are also referred to as SATs.
Parents sometimes seek tutors at this early stage for out-of-class support, allowing children to explore and learn at their own pace whilst building confidence and self-esteem. With a great tutor, children can find love and passion in a subject, which can lead to a lifelong love of learning.
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KS3
KS3 covers pupils in years 7-9 (11-14 years old). KS3 marks the transition from primary to secondary education and is designed to build on knowledge from KS2, where preparation for GCSEs begin (please see our page on GCSEs for more details).
There are no formal national exams at this stage of education; instead pupils focus on deepening their subject knowledge, critical and analytical thinking and independent learning skills.
By the end of KS3, students choose their subjects for Key Stage 4, where they will prepare for GCSEs. Pupils should feel well-prepared to make informed choices about their future academic and career paths. Extra support may be sought to help pupils build a strong foundation in core subjects, ensuring they are well-prepared and confident for the challenges of Key Stage 4 and GCSEs.
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