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Guides: School and the law

Last Updated: Friday December 10 2004 09:50 GMT

Who has to go to school?

Everyone has to start education from the first school term after their fifth birthday. They must carry on until the last Friday in June of the year that they are 16.

Once you have started going to a school you have to keep attending unless your parents withdraw you or you are excluded.

Most people get their education in schools but you don't have to go to one.

The law says your parents or guardians are responsible for making sure you get a full-time education.

They can do this by educating you at home or hiring a tutor. Child stars often stop going to school while they follow their singing or acting careers. They normally get a personal teacher to help them study.

Guide to School and the law

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