Infant school

An Infant school is a type of school which caters for young children, usually between the ages of 4 and 7 years. In the United Kingdom it is usually a small school serving a particular locality.

An infant school forms part of the local pattern of provision for primary education. In England and Wales infant schools cater for pupils aged 4 to 5 years in a reception class (equivalent to an American kindergarten). This year makes up the final part of the Foundation Stage, and is compulsory (unlike Nursery). Pupils then transfer to Year 1 in the September following their fifth birthday, and to Year 2 the following year. These two years form Key Stage 1 in the English education system. At the end of this time, most pupils will move to a linked junior school, although some may move to a through primary school.

The introduction of the School Standards and Framework Act 1998 [http://www.opsi.gov.uk/ACTS/acts1998/19980031.htm] meant that classes in infant schools in England and Wales are limited to no more than 30 children per school teacher.

In some areas of England, provision of education at this age is made in First schools catering for pupils aged up to 8 or 9.

ee also

*Education in the United Kingdom
*Primary education
*Primary school
*Junior school
*First school