U.K. Culture & Traditions

Democracy

•The British government runs the UK. The leader of the government is the Prime Minister.

•Great Britain (UK) is a parliamentary democracy with a constitutional Monarch as Head of State.

•Parliament decides the laws and makes decisions on running the U.K.

•The U.K government is normally formed by the leader of the party that wins the most seats in the general election.

Food and DrinkBritish food has traditionally been based on beef, lamb, chicken, pork and fish, Generally served with potatoes and vegetables.

Celebration DaysNew Year – 1st January

St Valentines Day – 14th February

St David’s Day – 1st MarchSt Patrick’s Day – 17th March

Mothering Sunday - MarchEaster – March / April

St George’s Day – 23rd AprilFathers’ Day - June

Halloween – 31st OctoberBonfire Night – 5th November

St Andrew’s Day – 30th NovemberChristmas Day – 25th December

Languages

•The main language spoken in the U.K. is English.•Regions have their own dialect – Scouse being the dialect of Liverpudlians.

Other countries within the U.K. have their own languages:•Wales – Welsh•Scotland – Scottish Gaelic•Northern Ireland – Irish Gaelic

Education

Children’s education in England is normally divided into two separate stages:•Primary: 4 – 11 years•Secondary: 11 – 18 years

Schools follow guidance from the National Curriculum.

Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have their own National Curriculum Guidelines.