B. Read the passage carefully, decide whether the statements are true (T) or false (F),

and then answer the questions.

In Britain, children are required to be in full-time education between the ages of 5 and

16. Different areas of Britain have different school systems. In some areas, children receive

their primary education at an infant school and then a junior school, or at a primary school

that combines the two. At about 11 they begin their secondary education at a comprehensive

school, a grammar school or a high school. In other areas children go to a first school at age

5, a middle school at 8 and an upper school from 13 onwards.

Most children go to state schools. Until 1988 these were all responsible to a Local

Education Authority (LEA). LEAs obtain their funding from central government and the

council tax. In 1988 secondary schools and larger primary schools were encouraged to opt

out of LEA control and become grant-maintained.

Some children go to independent schools run by private organizations, for which their parents have to pay fees. A few go to public schools, such as Eton and Harrow. Younger children may attend a private preparatory school until the age of 13. Some parents may send their children to private schools, even if this is against their principles, because they think that their children will receive a better education.

The British education system aims to educate the whole person, so that each child develops his or her personality as well as gaining academic knowledge. Most primary and secondary schools offer a range of extra-curricular activities, including sports, music, community service and trips to places of interest. Secondary schools also give careers advice and help students to prepare for having a job by arranging short periods of work experience with local businesses.

True or false?

What is the purpose of the British education system?