In Britain, school is compulsory between the ages of five and sixteen. Primary education continues until the age of eleven.
Pupils wishing to enter university usually finish their secondary education when they are eighteen.
Other types of further education are available for those who want to learn a trade such as catering or specialize at an early stage. In recent years, the proportion of young people entering university has risen dramatically. The variety of degree courses on offer has also widened. It is now common for students entering fields such as nursing to be based at university. Educational terminology can be very confusing.