highest level of formal educational qualification achieved achieved lower secondary education Published A highest level of formal educational qualification achieved after participating in an education process intended to result in the acquisition and development of skills and knowledge in subject areas more specialised than basic reading, writing and mathematics, with the overall goal of laying the foundation for lifelong learning and human development on which education systems may systematically expand further educational opportunities. A highest level of formal educational qualification achieved that is lower secondary level of education (ISCED 2) which generally pursues the basic programmes of the primary level, although teaching is typically more subject-focused, often employing more specialised teachers who conduct classes in their field of specialisation. Lower secondary education may be either “terminal”(i.e. preparing students for direct entry into working life) and / or “preparatory” (i.e. preparing students for upper secondary education).This level can range from 2 to 6 years of schooling (the mode of OECD countries is 3 years).