History of education in Wales (1939–present)

The history of education in Wales from 1939 to the present covers the various types of education available in Wales from the Second World War to the present day. This period has seen an expansion of secondary and higher education, as well as the development of a more distinctive Welsh education system.

The Second World War had a disruptive effect on the education system and created an impetus for reform. Shortly after the war, a universal split between primary and secondary schools was established at 11 years. Secondary schools were initially segregated based on children's academic performance; this practice had ended in Wales by 1980. The school-leaving age was increased to 15 in 1947 and 16 in 1972. Further and higher education also expanded overtime. Formal Welsh-medium education was established beginning in 1939 and the Welsh language became a universal school subject from 1990. The administration of education in Wales was effected by the process of Welsh devolution.