Education

How does the UK education system work?

The education system in the UK is compulsory and free. This means refugee, asylum seeker and migrant children have the same entitlement to full-time education as other children in the UK. However, if a child is attending a private school then fees may have to be paid.

The statutory school age is from 5 years to 16 years. However, in England, young people aged 16 years to 18 years old have to be in full time education or training.

The education system in the UK is divided up into four main parts: Primary, secondary, further and higher education. 

In the UK, all children have the right of access to education. Local authorities have a legal duty to ensure that education is available for all children of compulsory school age in their local area, regardless of immigration status or right of residence.

The education has to be appropriate to age, ability and any special educational needs (SEN) that the children may have while attending school. Some schools employ support staff for children for whom English is not their first language. The support staff help the children with their lessons.

How to apply

To apply for schools for your child if you live in East Sussex, you must apply to East Sussex County Council. You can find out more on the East Sussex County Council website.

If having difficulties with accessing the education system for your child then the local Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) may be able to help you.
CAB contact details:

• Postal Address: The Magnet Centre, 1 Christchurch Courtyard, London Road, St Leonards-On-Sea.  TN37 6GL
• Access Address: The Magnet Centre, Alfred Street, St Leonards-On-Sea. TN38 OHD.
• Phone: 03444 111 444 or 01424 721458

University

If you are an asylum seeker and the Home Office has not reached a decision on your asylum claim, you will probably have to pay all university fees yourself.

The Refugee Support Network (RSN) provides advice and support for young refugees. They have a national advice line and can provide advice about accessing higher education in the UK.

• Advice line: 07597583228 or 0800 331 7292
• Email: highereducation@refugeesupportnetwork.org