Education Blog

The Schools in England Blog

Expert guides, exam tips and practical advice from experienced educators. Everything parents and students need to navigate England's school system.

23 Articles
5 Topics
3 Expert Authors
A parent sitting across from a secondary school headteacher in a formal school office in England, with documents on the table between them English Education System
Featured
Suspension Versus Permanent Exclusion: Differences Explained
The legal difference between a school suspension and permanent exclusion in England: statutory timelines, parent rights and governing board duties explained.
CW
Christopher Walton
11 min read
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A formal portrait-style illustration of a 1940s British government minister seated at a Whitehall office desk with education reform documents English Education System
R. A. Butler and the Education Act 1944: The Reformer's Legacy
Rab Butler's 1944 Education Act transformed schooling in England: universal free secondary education, the tripartite system, the 11-plus and its lasting legacy.
ER
Emmett Richardson
12 min
A Year 7 pupil in secondary school uniform with blazer and backpack walking confidently through school gates on a bright morning English Education System
Secondary School Transfer: Preparing Your Child for the Move to Year 7
A practical guide for parents on secondary school transfer in England — how to prepare your child emotionally and practically for the move to Year 7 and KS3.
CW
Christopher Walton
11 min
A 1960s British comprehensive school building with pupils in uniform walking through the main gate on a grey morning English Education System
Anthony Crosland and Comprehensive School Reform in England
How Anthony Crosland's Circular 10/65 ended the 11-plus era and transformed secondary education in England. The history of comprehensive schools, the tripartite system and the debate that continues today.
CW
Christopher Walton
12 min
A young child in school uniform with a backpack standing with a parent at the entrance to a primary school in England on a bright September morning English Education System
Compulsory School Age in England: What the Law Says and Your Rights
When must a child start school in England and when can they leave? Compulsory school age, the 18 participation requirement and parents' legal rights — explained.
CW
Christopher Walton
10 min
A bright primary school classroom with pupils working on various subjects, maths whiteboard visible in the background English Education System
The National Curriculum: What Subjects Are Mandatory in English Schools?
A complete guide to the National Curriculum in England — which subjects are compulsory at KS1, KS2, KS3 and KS4, what academies must teach, and how RSHE became statutory in 2020.
CW
Christopher Walton
12 min
Children in school uniform walking through the gates of a faith school in England on a sunny morning English Education System
Faith Schools in England: Admissions, Curriculum and What to Expect
A complete guide to faith schools in England for parents — how admissions work, what the curriculum includes, the difference between VA and VC schools, and your rights as a parent.
CW
Christopher Walton
11 min
Victorian-style portrait of a female headmistress at her desk in a bright Victorian classroom with girls' desks behind her English Education System
Frances Mary Buss: A Pioneer of Girls' Secondary Education
Discover the life and legacy of Frances Mary Buss — the Victorian educator who founded the North London Collegiate School and transformed girls' secondary education in England.
CW
Christopher Walton
12 min
A parent sitting at a kitchen table in England writing a formal complaint letter, with a laptop open and a school letter visible beside them English Education System
How to Make a Complaint About a School in England: State, Academy and Free Schools
How to complain about a school in England — headteacher, governors, DfE and ESFA routes for maintained schools, academies and free schools. Step-by-step guide.
CW
Christopher Walton
11 min
A young summer-born child in school uniform standing at the entrance of an English primary school with a reassuring parent beside them English Education System
Summer-Born Children and Reception: Admission Options Explained
Parents of summer-born children in England have the right to delay Reception entry. This guide explains the rules, how to apply, and what happens if schools refuse.
CW
Christopher Walton
11 min
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