THCS is an acronym for Trung Học Cơ Sở, which translates to "Fundamental Secondary School" in English. Synonyms for THCS include Junior High School, Middle School, or Secondary School, depending on the education system being used. In the United States, schools that cover grades 6-8 are commonly called Middle Schools, while schools that cover grades 7-9 may be referred to as Junior High Schools. Meanwhile, in the United Kingdom, Secondary Schools generally cover ages 11 to 18. Whatever the name given to these schools, their purpose is to provide a foundation of learning and a stepping stone towards higher education.