Choosing a school / setting

Primary and secondary schools


Primary schools

Primary schools offer education and learning to children from 4 to 11 years old. 

Children are all different and make progress at different rates.

They learn in different ways.

Developmental patterns may vary between children, this is often because they learn and grow at different rates.

See a list of primary schools in South Tyneside.


Secondary schools

Secondary school offer education and learning for children aged 11 to 16 years old.

See a list of secondary schools in South Tyneside.


Types of school and how their admissions policies are decided

There is a mix of maintained, voluntary controlled, voluntary aided and foundation schools in South Tyneside.

See more about these types of school and how their admissions policies are decided.


School years and Key Stages

Learning and education is organised into blocks of years called 'Key Stages'. 

See School years and key stages.


Support in schools for children and young people with SEND

All children are entitled to a high quality education that:

  • is appropriate to their needs
  • helps them achieve their best
  • gives them confidence in enjoying a broad range of activities and learning
  • gives them the foundations for becoming an independent and successful adult

For information about support available in schools for children and young people with SEND, see support in schools.

Every school has Special Educational Needs Co-ordinators (SENCOs), and a member of the governing body with specific oversight of the schools arrangements for SEN and disability. 

Schools must make sure children with SEN and disabilities are safe, and enjoy a broad and balanced curriculum. See the school's and the Council's responsibilities.

More information about schools in South Tyneside

See what schools in South Tyneside offer.