England has, in general, two education systems. Each has points at which exams are taken or pupils can leave, and some parts are paid for whilst others are free. Of course, there are other options available to parents and students, including home education and boarding schools, but this entry will not attempt to discuss these alternative systems.

The Two Systems

System One

This is the system offered by the government ("state education" for which there is no charge) and is therefore used by most English students.

System Two

This is often found in "public schools" which are paid for by parents.