State school Facts for Kids

Old Scona High School in Edmonton, Alberta.

State schools are schools that teach children and teenagers without charging them tuition fees. They are mostly paid for by the government using money collected from taxes. These schools teach students from primary school (elementary school) all the way through secondary school (high school). Sometimes, the term "state school" can also mean public colleges or universities.

One important thing about state schools is that they usually have to follow a national curriculum. This means they teach the same subjects and topics that the government says all schools in that country should teach.

In some places, like outside of England and Wales, state schools might be called "public schools." This can be a bit confusing because in England, "public school" often means a private, fee-paying school.

What Are State Schools?
- How State Schools Are Funded
- Who Goes to State Schools?
Types of State Schools
- Primary and Secondary Schools
- Specialized State Schools
State Schools Around the World
Why Are State Schools Important?
Images for kids
See also

What Are State Schools?

State schools are a big part of the education system in most countries. They aim to give every child a chance to learn, no matter how much money their family has. Because they are funded by the government, parents usually don't have to pay for their children to attend.

How State Schools Are Funded

The money for state schools comes from taxes that people and businesses pay. This money helps cover everything from teachers' salaries and building maintenance to textbooks and school supplies. Governments decide how much money to give to schools based on things like the number of students and the needs of the community.

Who Goes to State Schools?

Most children around the world attend state schools. These schools are open to everyone in a specific area or district. They often have a wide mix of students from different backgrounds, which can make the learning environment very diverse and interesting.

Types of State Schools

Just like there are different kinds of private schools, there are also various types of state schools, depending on the country.

Primary and Secondary Schools

Primary Schools: These are for younger children, usually from around ages 5 to 11 or 12. They focus on basic subjects like reading, writing, and math.
Secondary Schools: These are for older students, typically from ages 11 or 12 up to 18. They offer a wider range of subjects and prepare students for higher education or jobs.

Specialized State Schools

Some state schools might specialize in certain areas. For example, there could be state schools focused on arts, science, or technical skills. These schools still follow the national curriculum but might offer more advanced lessons or facilities in their special area.

State Schools Around the World

The way state schools work can be very different from one country to another.

Europe

In many European countries, like France, Germany, and the UK, state schools are the main way most children get their education. They are often free and follow strict national guidelines.

North America

In the United States and Canada, state schools are usually called "public schools." They are funded by local and state governments and are open to all children living in a particular school district.

Asia

Countries in Asia, like Malaysia, also have government-sponsored schools that are a key part of their education system, providing education to a large number of students.

Why Are State Schools Important?

State schools play a huge role in society. They help make sure that everyone has access to education, which is important for personal growth and for the future of a country. By providing free education, state schools help reduce differences between people and give more opportunities to everyone.

Images for kids

Chio Min Secondary School (government-sponsored schools) in Kulim, Kedah, Malaysia.
La Sorbonne, a famous university in Paris, France.
One of the schools in France.
A school in Germany.
A school named after Goethe, a famous German writer.
A modern school building in Germany.
Cheadle Hulme High School, a secondary school in the UK.
Sutton Grammar School, a selective state school for boys in the UK.
The entrance to Mearns Street Public School, built in Greenock, Scotland.
A secondary school in Bragado, Argentina.
A plaque marking the site of the first public school in America, in Dedham, Massachusetts.
The Seward School in Seattle, Washington, USA.