In the Wallonia-Brussels Federation, compulsory pre-primary education begins at age 5. Primary education starts at age 6 and lasts for six years, divided into three two-year cycles. The curriculum includes French language, mathematics, science, social studies, physical education, and artistic expression. Multilingual exposure begins early, with foreign languages introduced in later cycles. The system emphasizes inclusive education, democratic values, and social integration. Upon completion of primary education, pupils receive a Certificat d'Études de Base (CEB), granting access to secondary education.

Secondary education in Wallonia spans six years and is divided into three stages of two years each. In the first stage (common core), all students follow a broad curriculum. In the second and third stages, they choose a specific orientation among general, technical, artistic, or vocational streams. The general track leads toward higher education, while others  prepare for employment or further study. Students receive a Certificat d'Enseignement Secondaire Supérieur (CESS) upon successful completion of upper secondary education. Recent reforms under the Pacte pour un Enseignement d’Excellence aim to reduce inequality and improve outcomes through a more unified and inclusive structure.