The Education System in Scotland

As in England, education in Scotland is compulsory for all children from age 5 to 16. Although there is no statutory curriculum the Scottish Office Education and Industry Department lays down guidelines for the progress and performance of children at different stages through primary and early secondary school.

In primary schools (up to the age of 12) children are taught mathematics (15% of the curriculum); expressive arts (15%); environmental studies (25%); religious & moral studies (10%); flexible studies (20%) and language (15%).

Secondary schools each create their own curriculum and although courses vary greatly, all children up to 16 study the core subjects: English, mathematics, science, one modern foreign language, and a social subject. In the years 12 and 13 the level of study rises and expands to include a wide range of modular courses in vocational subjects.

Examinations: at age 16 pupils take the Scottish Certificate of Education (Standard Grade). There are 3 levels: Foundation, General and Credit awarded by the Scottish Qualifications Association, using external examination with some internal assessment.

At age 17 pupils take the Higher and at 18 the Advanced Higher Grades. There are 5 levels: Access, Intermediate 1, Intermediate 2, Higher and Advanced Higher, both using internal and external assessment.

In Scotland some independent schools follow the English public school system with English GCSE examinations at age 16, and Advanced level examinations at age 18.