The school system in the Czech Republic consists of several levels: pre-school for children ages 3-6, elementary school for ages 6-15 which is compulsory, secondary school for ages 15-19 where students prepare for jobs or further education, colleges for ages 19-24 which increase employment opportunities, and gymnázium secondary schools for ages 11/15-19 which prepare students specifically for college or university entrance. There are approximately 5000 pre-schools, 4600 elementary schools, 1300 secondary schools, 250 colleges, and 300 gymnázium schools across the Czech Republic.