Structure

Scottish State Schools

State schools are funded by area by the 32 local authorities in Scotland. Parents can choose what schools children go to, but this will depend on availability of places. Normally the closest school is favoured.

In Scotland, children attend:

• Pre-school from age three to four
• Primary School from age five to twelve
• Secondary School from five to sixteen

Financial assistance

Dependant on family income, children may qualify for free school meals and a clothing allowance. Children staying on at school up to 18 years of age may also qualify for an attendance allowance, with more information available from Education Maintenance Allowances in Scotland website.

Some private schools may offer scholarship programmes to cover some of the fees or equipment.

Further and Higher Education

Further education normally takes place in an accredited Further Education College. These can be attended from age 16 onwards.

There is a range of further education available in Scotland including:

• Scottish Vocational Qualifications (SVQ) courses
• Pre-employment courses
• Link courses for school pupils
• Off-the-job training for employees
• Evening classes
• Advanced courses including Higher National Certificate courses, Higher National Diploma courses, Discrete or franchised degree courses Higher Education

Higher education can only take place through an accredited college or university. Attendance can be from age 16 but normally starts at age 18 or older.

The range of education available includes:

• Higher National Certificate courses
• Higher National Diploma courses
• First Degree level courses
• Masters and PhD level courses and research

Within each regional section there are details of the specific education provision offered by Local Authorities in that region. You will find the 'Education' link on the 'About' page for each region. 

Related links

Higher education institutions in Scotland 

Back to Education