The lower performers leave school at 15 with a basic qualification, usually in practical skills.

ECONOMIST: Reforming education

Skills Minister Phil Hope says that, since 2001, more than 1.5 million people have "beaten their gremlins" by getting a basic skills qualification, under the Skills for Life strategy.

BBC: NEWS | UK | Education | Poor basic skills 'costing firms'

If the students wish to pursue a certificate to confirm that they have achieved the official level of primary or basic education (three years of secondary school), they are able to sit an exam to obtain this qualification whilst attending the programme.

UNESCO: Country Profile: Uruguay