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Kindergarten

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.

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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Pre-K (Pre-kindergarten) United States
Early education for children aged about 3 to 4, the year or years before kindergarten; some states offer universal pre-K.
First grade United States
The year after kindergarten, for children aged about 6 to 7. Equivalent in age to Year 2 in England and Wales.
Reception (R) England Wales
The first year of primary school in England (and the equivalent in Wales), for children who are 4 at the start of the school year and turn 5 during it. In England it is the final year of the Early Years Foundation Stage.

More terms: Phases and year groups

Junior · Junior high school · K-12 · Middle school (US) · Ninth grade · Preschool

More terms starting with K · 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.