Indian 'First Standard'

[Tefler]

I wonder if anybody could tell me what 'first standard' means in the Indian education system? Is it like 'year 1' in Britain? If so, what age do children usuall enter this class?

[Buenchico]

In common with the majority of countries throughout the world, Indian children commence formal education (in 'Standard 1') at the age of 6. So their 'standards' are the same as US 'grades' but one year different from our own school 'years'.

Chris

PS: The UK's system of starting formal education at the age of 5 is almost unknown elsewhere in the world. In Scandinavia (where formal education starts at the age of 7) our system is seen as a form of abuse.

[Whickerman]

That's interesting.

Here in Ireland school starts at 5 too, or at least 4½. There are two years of 'Junior and Senior Infants' before first class through 6th in primary, then 5-6 years secondary. I wasn't yet 4 when I started in the 70s!

[Tefler]

Thanks Buenchico, for the information - and Whickerman for your contribution, too. I wonder whether an earlier start helps or hinders!

[Hopkirk]

Our reception year is hardly formal education, it's more like playschool.

Child abuse, my a***!