What Is a Maintained School? | UK Education Explained

Maintained schools are a key part of the UK’s state education system. They are funded and controlled by local authorities and provide free education to children and young people. This article explains clearly what maintained schools are, how they operate, who attends them, and how they fit into the wider education landscape.

What Is a Maintained School?

A maintained school is a state-funded school that is run by the local authority. These schools follow the national curriculum and receive funding through local government channels. Maintained schools are responsible for providing education to all children in their area.

Who Attends Maintained Schools?

Maintained schools educate children from the ages of 4 to 18, covering primary and secondary education. They serve pupils from a wide range of backgrounds and abilities.

Types of Maintained Schools

Maintained schools include community schools, foundation schools, voluntary aided schools, and voluntary controlled schools. Each has different governance structures but all are accountable to local authorities.

Curriculum and Admissions

Maintained schools follow the national curriculum and adhere to admissions policies set in coordination with local authorities. They provide a broad and balanced education leading to qualifications such as GCSEs and A-levels.

Differences From Academies and Free Schools

Unlike academies and free schools, which operate independently of local authorities, maintained schools are directly managed by local councils. This affects funding, curriculum decisions, and governance.

Conclusion

Maintained schools are publicly funded and locally managed schools providing free education across the UK. Understanding their role helps families navigate the education system and school choices.