Two examples are shown in teh comparisontable of countries that have several ability strands in their secondary systems (Netherlands and Singapore). Students in each starnd follow programmes that suit their ability and aptitude and lead to different qualifications atthe end of secondary education. Three strands are common, one of which is an academic stand and one leading to further technical education one and the third leading directly to the job market.

This is a common system typical of most of the far east and Europe, inclding former east Europe.

In the example of Singapore, learners are allocated to the three stands after grade 5. In the Netherlands the segregation takes place at the end of the junior secondary phase. The example of singapore is shown in more detail here.

All countries distinguish between junior and senior secondary programmes. In almost all cases the junior secondary programme is a common one for all students with diversification taking place in the senior phase.

In the middle east, there are commonly only three education phases, primary, preparatory and secondary. The secondary programme is commonly grades 10-12. The exaple of Qatar is shown in the comparison table; Qatar has recently introduced an interesting system in which all the schools are independent not-for-profit organisations with a very considerable degree or autonomy. They can, for example, chose any recognised leaving examination, not necessarily that of the Qatar government.

These vary considerably thoughout the world. Many countries offer a variety of different programmes leading to different further education opportunities. Others, such as the UK, USA, Australia and the evolving secondary systems in southern Africa, offer single programmes that can be taken at a number of different levels according to ability.

The number of subjects taken to grade 12 is commonly 8 or more but in some countries, such as South Africa and Namibia (and Scotland), the number is slightly fewer with an option of studying some in greater depth than others ('higher level')