CV employment history question

[mindyismyspiritanimal]

I'm currently trying to rewrite my CV as I'm planning on returning to work after a short career break.

Is it necessary to keep employment history and education history as two separate sections or is it more 'user friendly' to combine them?

Keeping employment history and education history separate is usual practice and the preferred layout of a CV, and if you are then asked to complete a generic application form this information is always separate.
Employers like to clearly see what experience you have gained and what education and additional skills you have acquired along the way.
A CV should flow from one 'topic' to another rather than bounce between categories.
Good luck