Infant School

An infant school is a term used to describe where infants (children aged 4 or under) are taught. Infant schools teach the National Curriculum, but may also offer other activities for children such as singing and dance classes. Children usually attend infant school between the ages of 5-7 years old (key stage 1).

Infant schools prepare children for the transition to primary education. The term originally referred to a type of British pre-elementary school. Which catering to children between the ages of 4–7 years old, who were not yet ready for formal education. In preparation for attending an elementary school when they reached 8 years old.

In some countries, particularly in Germany and Russia, children go to primary school from the age of three or four. In England, this is called an Infant School and children only start formal lessons at five years of age. Most infant schools allow children to enter. When they turn three and leave when they reach the official school leaving date of the country. This is usually on their fifth birthday, but in some cases, children don’t start Infant School until they are four.

Infant schools vary considerably from area to area and from school to school. Many infant schools in towns and cities are based on Victorian buildings with high ceilings, lots of space, and large playgrounds. They tend to be much more spacious than junior schools, respectively.