School in Russia

The Russian school system is usually described through three main stages. Начальная школа covers the first years, основное общее образование continues through the middle grades, and среднее общее образование covers the final school years. Children generally begin with primary classes and then move into a broader programme with subjects such as Russian, mathematics, history, science, foreign languages, and physical education. Schools may differ in emphasis and special subjects. After the basic stage, many pupils continue in the same school for upper secondary education. Others choose a колледж or техникум and enter secondary vocational education. The school year is divided into study periods with holidays. Daily schedules, class size, homework, grading, and school traditions can vary between regions and individual schools. Most public schools are free for standard general education. Private schools and specialised programmes may charge fees, and families should check the exact service and admission conditions. Russian is the main language of instruction in most of the country. In some republics and regions, another state or local language may also be taught or used in particular educational settings. The Основной государственный экзамен, or ОГЭ, is associated with the end of the basic school stage. The Единый государственный экзамен, or ЕГЭ, is the main final examination route for many pupils completing upper secondary school and applying to universities. Schools also provide social development, clubs, sports, arts, and support for children with different learning needs. The quality and availability of these services are not identical everywhere. Families choosing a school should look at the teaching language, transport, timetable, support services, examination preparation, and communication with parents. A school can be a good fit even when it is not the most prestigious one.