UK Schools: The UK school education system provides an environment for nurturing young children into adolescence.
The English national curriculum supports the school life that is conducive for learning.
Several departments oversee the various schooling systems in England. They include the Department for Education (DfE) and the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills.
But, local government authorities implement most of the policies for public education and state-funded schools.
Contacting the DfE
You can contact the Department for Education online by filling in an enquiry form or by calling the DfE helpline if you need a quicker response.
DfE Helpline
Telephone: 03700002288
Monday to Friday: 9am to 5pm
UK phone call charges.
Sending a Child to School: A to Z Guide
Attending School
Admissions Eligibility
Check the school admission criteria and how to choose a school for your child. It explains how to get a place at a primary or secondary school for your children.
Attendance Policies
All children must receive a full-time education. Check how the school attendance and absence policy can affect you if you fail to send your child to school.
Children with SEND
Help is available for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). The support can provide them with an education and proper health care.
Home Education
UK home education laws allow parents to educate their children out of school. Educating your child at home can be full time or part-time, and your local council can help.
National Curriculum
The English national curriculum is a set of primary and secondary school subjects and standards. They split into key stages with written tests and assessments.
School Finder
Access the Ofsted database reports to find a school catchment area near you. It provides an overview of each school performance score in England.
School Places
You can apply for a place at a state primary school or a secondary school online. Likewise, you can also use the application form available at your local council.
School Holidays and Terms
Check your child’s school term and holiday dates on the council website. Use these links for information on school holiday dates in Scotland and school terms in Northern Ireland.
School Uniforms
Parents can request clothing changes if they disagree with the school uniform policy. But, children can get disciplined for breaking school uniform rules.
Types of Schools
Find a comprehensive list of the different types of schools in England. It also explains how community schools, academies, and free schools function.
Walking Routes
Contact the local council to find a safe walking route to your child’s school. The online safe walking or cycling route planner is only available in England and Wales.
Childcare for School-age Children
After School Clubs
Are you searching for childcare out of school hours activities? Your council can help you find after school clubs and holiday play schemes in your area.
Childcare Clubs
Check your local council for advice about childcare outside school hours. They will help you find breakfast clubs and homework clubs with registered childminders.
Childcare Support
The childcare and support section explains how to get help with child care. There is extra information on education and assistance for those with school-age children.
Dealing with Problems at School
School Problems
Check how to deal with problems at school and communicate with teachers. The section covers bullying, discipline, poor exam results, and how to make a complaint.
Truancy Rules
Local councils encourage all children to attend school. They deal with absence and truancy in various ways. You can get further education and attendance information from them online.
School Support for Parents
Free School Meals
Your child may qualify for free school meals if they get certain benefits. Use the online checker to see if your child qualifies for free school meals and how to apply.
Free School Transport
Local councils provide free school transport for children who need to walk or travel long distances. Find out if your child qualifies and the special rules for children with SEND.
School Clothing
Check to see if you qualify for help with school clothing costs for your child. In fact, some councils provide financial help towards the cost of a school uniform and games kit.
Unpaid Parental Leave
A guide for employers and employees about unpaid parental leave entitlement. It also covers employee parental leave eligibility and maternity leave notice periods.