 University College Bristol (now the University of Bristol) became the first mixed higher education institution on its foundation in 1876, followed in 1878 by University College London (which had held some mixed classes from 1871).Full-time education is compulsory for all children aged 5 to 18, either at school or otherwise, with a child beginning primary education during the school year they turn 5.Children between the ages of 3 and 5 are entitled to 600 hours per year of optional, state-funded, pre-school education.