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Key Stages 1,2,3
In the UK, nation curriculum in primary and secondary schools is divided into key stages, each with a corresponding age group and key milestones. Key stages are often abbreviated in 'KS' followed by a number. Compulsory national curriculum comprises of compulsory subjects and tests at each key stage. Independent schools do not have to follow the national curriculum and may follow their own criteria for curriculum and assessment.
KS1 and 2
In England, primary education is divided into Key Stages 1 and 2. Key Stage 1 (KS1) typically covers Years 1 and 2, for children aged 5–7, while Key Stage 2 (KS2) covers Years 3–6, for children aged 7–11.
In Year 1, children take a phonics screening check to assess their ability to recognise and use phonics when reading. National curriculum tests at the end of KS1 are optional, and include English grammar, punctuation and spelling, English reading and mathematics. Some schools may adopt KS1 tests to check pupil progress and identify areas of support for KS2.
At the end of Year 6, pupils take national curriculum assessments, commonly known as SATs, in English reading, English grammar, punctuation and spelling, and mathematics.
Parents may seek additional support at this stage to help their children develop key skills, strengthen their understanding and build confidence. One-to-one tutoring provides an opportunity for children to explore subjects at their own pace, ask questions and develop a deeper understanding of what they are learning.
With the right tutor, children can develop a positive attitude towards learning and build the foundations for a lifelong love of education.
KS3
Key Stage 3 (KS3) covers Years 7–9, typically for pupils aged 11–14. It marks the transition from primary to secondary education, building on the knowledge and skills developed during Key Stage 2 (KS2) while introducing pupils to a broader range of subjects and more advanced concepts. KS3 also lays the foundations for GCSE study in Key Stage 4 (KS4). For more information, please see our page on GCSEs.
There are no routine statutory national curriculum tests at the end of KS3. Instead, pupils focus on developing their subject knowledge, critical and analytical thinking, and independent learning skills, preparing them for the demands of further study.
Towards the end of KS3, pupils typically choose the subjects they will study in KS4, including those they will take at GCSE. Additional tutoring can help pupils strengthen their understanding of core subjects, address gaps in their knowledge and build the confidence and skills they need to approach GCSE study successfully. With the right support, pupils can feel better equipped to make informed choices about their subjects and future academic interests.