I have been wondering for a long time how the US Grades relate to the new British School Year system, and in turn how these correspond to the English National Curriculum Key Stages. I am sure that many of you, particularly homeschoolers in England & Wales perhaps wanting to buy curriculum from the US, will have been in the same position and so, hopefully in order to clear up the confusion, I present my understanding of how the three relate and approximately which ages fit where! Please note that this table represents a comparison by age - the level of work or education going on at each of these ages will not necessarily compare between the two.

I know, of course, that in the US, children who do not attain the necessary Grades at the set age will be kept in a lower Grade than their peers, and students with above Grade average may advance to higher Grades (I have it on good authority, however, that "advancing students is rarely done and is usually done at the request of the parents.  However holding back (flunking) of students is much more common.  Sometimes the more advanced students take one or more harder classes if available in the specific subject, though remedial classes for those behind are more common".) Whereas, in England, peer age groups are kept together regardless of ability, and the teachers attempt to cater for advanced or 'special needs' students alongside 'average' students.

Please note that, whereas In the US, different States have different requirements, in England, none of this is mandatory: you are not in any way required by Law to keep to the National Curriculum. I present this information purely for reference, and to aid in purchasing appropriate books, curriculum or resources.

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I hope all this makes sense; however, if this table contains errors or if you have anything to add, please let me know!

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