I WONDER if there is mileage in Britain adopting a similar schools’ system to New Zealand?

There, children start primary school either the day after or on their fifth birthday, having previously been to kindergarten and had special introductory days in the school of their choice.

They stay in primary school until they’re 13 before going to high school until they’re 18. Some do leave at 16 but most are encouraged to stay on.

This system means children seem to keep younger longer, cuts down the number of 16 year-olds without work or in any education, and promotes further study.