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Three-tier system

A school structure, used in a few parts of England, of first, middle and upper (or high) schools instead of the more common primary and secondary split.

Used in
England
Topic
Policy and law

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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First school England
In areas with a three-tier system in England, a school for children from Reception up to around Year 4.
Middle school (UK) England
In areas of England with a three-tier system, a school covering roughly Years 5 to 8 or Years 4 to 7, between first school and upper/high school. Not the same as a US middle school, though it covers a similar age range.

More terms: Policy and law

Admissions appeal · Baker clause · Condition of funding · Equality Act 2010 · Gatsby Benchmarks · Home-school agreement

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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.