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Education in Northern Ireland

Education in Northern Ireland may differ from the system used elsewhere in the United Kingdom. Basically, there are two systems: one covering England, Wales and Northern Ireland and one covering Scotland. The two education systems have different emphases. Traditionally the English, Welsh and Northern Irish system has emphasised depth of education whereas the Scottish system has emphasised breadth. Thus English, Welsh and Northern Irish students tend to sit a small number of more advanced examinations and Scottish students tend to sit a larger number of less advanced examinations.

In general, the cut-off point for ages is the end of August, so all children must be of a particular age on the 1st of September in order to begin class that month.

School years

In some regions of England, pupils attend a Lower School until age 9, a Middle School between 9 and 13, and then a High School or Upper School.

See also