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Elementary school

A US school for the early grades, usually kindergarten to grade 5 (sometimes to grade 6 or 8). Also called grade school or primary school.

Used in
United States
Topic
Phases and year groups

Being checked against official sources. This definition is written in our own words; always check the official guidance for your country.

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Kindergarten United States
The first year of formal schooling in most US elementary schools, for children aged about 5 to 6. Roughly equivalent to Reception (England) in purpose and Year 1 in age.
Middle school (US) United States
A US school for grades 6 to 8 (sometimes 5 to 8 or 7 to 8), between elementary and high school.
Primary school All four UK nations (details may differ)
A school for children from about age 4 or 5 to 11 (England, Wales, NI) or about 4.5 to 12 (Scotland), covering Reception or P1 to Year 6 or P7.

More terms: Phases and year groups

Cohort · Eighth grade · Eleventh grade · Fifth grade · First grade · Fourth grade

More terms starting with E · Education glossary A–Z · Get a TIP for your class

Definitions are written by Classfern in our own words for teachers in the UK and the US. They are short explanations, not legal or official definitions: always check the official guidance for your country, nation or state. Classfern is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government department, inspectorate or exam board named here.