What is a key stage?

IMG_0751.jpg

What is a key stage?

In the UK (excluding Scotland), the national curriculum is a set of subjects and standards used by primary and secondary schools so children learn the same things. It covers what subjects are taught and the standards children should reach in each subject.

The national curriculum is organised into blocks of years called ‘key stages’ (KS). At the end of each key stage, the teacher will formally assess your child’s performance.

The Key Stages are:

  • Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) – Pre-school & Reception Year 

  • Key Stage 1 – Year 1 & Year 2

  • Key Stage 2 – Year 3, Year 4, Year 5 & Year 6

  • Key Stage 3 – Year 7, Year 8, Year 9

  • Key Stage 4 (GSCEs) – Year 10 & Year 11 

Maths is a core subject that is assessed at each key stage.

Karen McGuigan