Glossary

A state-funded school that operates independently of the local authority.

A method used to measure a pupil's knowledge, skills, and progress.

Advanced Level qualifications typically studied by students aged 16–18.

An organisation (e.g., AQA, Pearson Edexcel, OCR) that develops, awards, and certifies qualifications.

An assessment used to measure a student's starting point before teaching begins.

A vocational qualification combining coursework and assessment, often focused on practical skills.

The subjects and content taught in a school.

Assessed work completed during a course that contributes to a final grade.

The framework for learning and development for children from birth to age 5.

The organisation responsible for setting exams and awarding qualifications.

An assessment marked by an examiner outside the school or college.

Education after age 16 that is not a university degree, such as college courses and apprenticeships.

General Certificate of Secondary Education; qualifications usually taken by students aged 15–16.

Education at universities and higher education institutions, usually leading to a degree.

School years for pupils aged 5–7 (Years 1 and 2).

School years for pupils aged 7–11 (Years 3–6).

School years for pupils aged 11–14 (Years 7–9).

School years for pupils aged 14–16 (Years 10–11), typically leading to GCSEs.

The council responsible for supporting and overseeing maintained schools in an area.

A practice examination designed to prepare students for formal exams.

The Office for Standards in Education, Children's Services and Skills; inspects and regulates education providers in England.

Additional government funding provided to schools to support disadvantaged pupils.

Policies and practices designed to protect children and young people from harm.

Special Educational Needs; additional learning support required by some pupils.

Special Educational Needs and Disabilities; a broader term covering both needs and disabilities.

Education for students aged 16–18, usually in Years 12 and 13.

An organisation that runs one or more academies, often known as a Multi-Academy Trust (MAT).

A technical qualification for students aged 16–19 that includes classroom learning and industry placement.

Universities and Colleges Admissions Service; the organisation that manages university applications in the UK.