In Britain, education is mandatory for children between the ages of 5 and 16. At the age of five, children start

In Britain, education is mandatory for children between the ages of 5 and 16. At the age of five, children start primary school, and at the age of eleven, they begin secondary education. The majority of children attend state schools, while only about 7% go to private schools. The school year is divided into three terms, and most schools operate on a five-day week, closing on Saturdays. The school day typically starts at nine and ends between three and four, with a lunch break of about an hour and a quarter. A typical timetable includes subjects such as English, science, maths, history, geography, art, music, physical education, and foreign languages. Many schools also offer extracurricular activities like choir, drama, and trips to interesting places. Students are expected to show respect for their teachers and follow school rules, as those who misbehave may face exclusion. The main exams are GCSEs (school-leaving exams at 16) and A-levels (university entrance exams at 18). University students graduate after completing their first degree, usually in three years. Many students then pursue further studies for a master's degree or a PhD.