Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
Early childhood education is a crucial factor in providing children with equal educational opportunities, supporting their cognitive and emotional development and overall well-being. This is particularly important for children from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds who may have fewer learning opportunities at home. While most children aged 5 are enrolled in early education across OECD countries, enrolment rates for younger children vary widely. Some countries offer universal enrolment for children aged 3, while in others only a minority participate in early education and care at that age.
Compulsory education in OECD countries generally includes primary and lower secondary education, though in several countries it has been extended to cover additional years, including parts of early childhood or upper secondary education. Despite the length of compulsory schooling, enrolment beyond those years remains high, with more than 90% of students continuing their education.