Local authorities in England administer state primary schools. These schools follow the National Curriculum and the aim is to provide opportunities for all pupils to learn and to achieve. Pupils study a range of subjects, including English, mathematics, geography, history, science and physical education. Most pupils attend primary schools in their "catchment areas," which are the areas closest to their home addresses as defined by local authorities. Most primary school pupils wear school uniforms, and in cases of financial hardships, the local authorities can help with the cost of buying uniforms.
Faith schools in Britain have a link to an established religion, such as the Church of England, the Jewish religion or the Catholic faith. Faith schools must follow the National Curriculum and employ fully qualified teaching staff. However, they usually employ teachers who also adhere to the faiths taught by the schools. Faith schools give priority admission to pupils who are of the same faiths as the schools and pupils often travel longer distances to attend faith schools.
In Scotland, children start school between the ages of 4 and 5 and remain at primary schools for seven years, before transferring to secondary schools. Most Scottish pupils attend the primary schools closest to their homes, although they have the option of making "placing requests" for alternative schools. The Scottish government is in charge of the education system in Scotland, and primary schools are administered by local councils. Since 2004, the Scottish government has been implementing the "Curriculum for Excellence," intended to raise standards in learning and teaching.
Parents pay for their children to attend independent schools. Fees differ widely, although many independent schools offer bursaries to certain pupils. Many independent schools in Britain are single sex and most operate competitive admissions policies. Almost all independent schools require pupils to wear uniforms.