Difference between Preschool and Primary School

Key Difference: Preschool is a preparatory school that has been designed for the children under the statutory school age. It generally covers children between two and five years of age. A primary school is an elementary school which is generally meant for children between the ages of five and eleven.

A preschool refers to a type of educational institution where a child studies before commencing proper school. These institutions play a vital role as they provide an earlier start to education that forms the foundation for later years. Generally, preschools focus on play-based techniques of learning. Children tend to show more interest in these learning methodologies.

Children at this tender age are very sensitive, thus properly trained staff is required to handle the students of a preschool. A preschool is effective in establishing interaction skills in the children. Children learn to share and interact with their classmates. Preschools also train the children in how to behave in a classroom environment.

Primary school is basically an elementary school which usually consists of one to six grades (levels) of a school. Generally, it covers the children between the ages of five and eleven. After completing the primary education, the student moves on to a secondary school. The subjects in primary school generally include mathematics, social studies, physical education, health, etc.

A lot of emphasis is laid to improve the reading ability of a child. In most of the countries, primary education is compulsory for the children. Students study a range of subjects in a primary school. They also develop knowledge skills. A lot of emphasis is made on the moral values, as this stage of a child contributes effectively in the character development of a child.

Comparison between Preschool and Primary School:

	Preschool	Primary School
Definition	Denotes any type of institution that has been designed for children who are too young to go to a school.	Denotes an elementary school which includes the first three or four grades of a school.
Types	Some of the types are - Montessori – Developed by educator Maria Montessori, they intend to develop a child’s senses. Waldorf – Based on the teachings of Austrian writer Rudolf Steiner. Teachers need to be Waldorf certified. Reggio Emilia – It encourages exploration and concentrates on the importance of community and self-expression. Bank Street – Based in the educational philosophy of John Dewy. Focuses on hands-on activities, etc.	The types may vary from country to country. However, generally they can be categorized into two groups- Public – These are usually funded by the government, thus provide an option for children who cannot afford to go to a private school. Private – They operate as profit educational institutions. The fee is usually higher in comparison to public schools.
Origin	From Latin prae-, prefixal meaning first, fore, prior, pro + Old English scol, from Latin schola "intermission of work, leisure for learning; learned conversation, debate; lecture; meeting place for teachers and students, place of instruction; disciples of a teacher, body of followers, sect"	From Latin primarius "of the first rank, chief, principal, excellent" + Old English scol, from Latin schola "intermission of work, leisure for learning; learned conversation, debate; lecture; meeting place for teachers and students, place of instruction; disciples of a teacher, body of followers, sect"
Advantages	They serve as the foundation for academic learning. It assists the child to grasp phonics and reading skills. Interaction with other children. Assists in developing social skills of a child. Prepare a child for the primary education.	Provides a curriculum for well rounded learning. Develop language and numeracy skills. Helps in nurturing sound values and good habits. Prepare the students for secondary education. Subjects covered are based on a range of disciplines. It generates various opportunities to access the library, etc.
Type of classes	Generally, half day	Generally, full day
Subjects covered	Generally, includes Reading and Language Arts, Basics of Math, Social Studies, Science, Health, Physical Education, Art, Music and Environmental Education.	Generally, includes Language, Mathematics, Social studies, Physical Education, Health and Science.