 Students at both state schools and independent schools typically take GCSE examinations, which mark the end of compulsory education in school.Above school-leaving age, the independent and state sectors are similarly structured.In the 16–17 age group by August 31st, sixth form education is not compulsory, but mandatory education or training until the age of 18 was phased in under the Education and Skills Act 2008, with 16-year-olds in 2013 and for 17-year-olds in September 2015.