Your child's educational journey from nursery to university
Your Child's Educational Journey in England
Here's what you can expect for your child's educational timeline:
3+ years: Universal Early Education
15 hours/week free childcare, 30 hours for working parents
4-5 years: Reception (Year R)
Starts in September after 4th birthday in most cases
11+ years: Secondary School
Year 7 start, leading to GCSEs and A-Levels
Enter your child's birth date above to get their specific timeline with exact dates.
England School System
Reception Entry: In England, children typically start Reception (Year R) in the September following their 4th birthday. Most children start school in the academic year they turn 5, but they can start earlier if there are available places.
30 Hours Free Childcare: Working parents in England can get 30 hours of free childcare per week for 3 and 4-year-olds during term time. All 3 and 4-year-olds get 15 hours free.
Compulsory Education: Education becomes compulsory the term after a child's 5th birthday. However, most children start Reception the year before this.
Ofsted Standards: All English schools and nurseries are regulated by Ofsted, ensuring high standards of education and care for your child.
Please note: This calculator is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial or legal advice. For definitive guidance on childcare costs and eligibility for English government support, please refer to official government sources.
Find Nurseries in England
Find nurseries in your area across England to help plan your child's education journey.