Educational System in Papua New Guinea

Moving to Papua New Guinea (PNG) can be an exciting adventure, but understanding the educational system is crucial for expats with school-age children. The education system in PNG is modeled on the Australian curriculum and is primarily taught in English, making it accessible for many expats. It consists of three main stages: Elementary, Primary, and Secondary education. Understanding these stages and the school options available will help ensure a smooth transition for your family.

What are the main stages of education in Papua New Guinea and what are the names of those stages?

The main stages of education in Papua New Guinea are Elementary, Primary, and Secondary. Each stage focuses on different aspects of a child's development and education. These stages are further divided into specific levels or grades.

Elementary School

Elementary School in PNG, also known as Early Childhood Education, caters to children aged 4 to 7 years old. It is the first stage of formal education and focuses on preparing children for primary school. The curriculum includes basic literacy, numeracy, and social skills. This stage is divided into Elementary Prep (4 years old), Elementary 1 (5 years old), and Elementary 2 (6-7 years old).

Primary School

Primary School is designed for children aged 8 to 12 years old. It builds on the foundation laid in Elementary School and introduces more complex subjects. The curriculum includes English, Mathematics, Science, Social Science, and Arts. Primary School is divided into grades 3 to 8.

Secondary School

Secondary School is for students aged 13 to 18 years old and is further divided into Lower Secondary (grades 9 to 10) and Upper Secondary (grades 11 to 12). The curriculum is more specialized and focuses on preparing students for tertiary education or the workforce. Subjects include English, Mathematics, Science, History, Geography, and electives.

How does a newcomer from a different country enroll their kids in school?

To enroll your children in a PNG school, you will need to provide their birth certificates, passports, and any previous school records. It's recommended to contact the school directly for specific enrollment procedures, as they can vary. Most schools will require you to fill out an application form and pay a registration fee.

My children are still learning English, can they enroll in a public school?

While the primary language of instruction in PNG schools is English, many schools offer support for students still learning the language. However, it's essential to check with individual schools to see what kind of English as a Second Language (ESL) support they provide. Some schools may have dedicated ESL programs, while others may offer more limited support.

Are there public bilingual schools? (Where are they and how do international students get admitted?)

Public bilingual schools are not common in PNG. However, some schools may offer indigenous language classes in addition to English. For bilingual education, private schools or may be a better option. Admission procedures for international students will vary by school, so it's best to contact them directly for detailed information.

What types of private schools are common in Papua New Guinea?

Private schools in PNG include Catholic and other religious schools, international schools, and schools offering specific educational philosophies like Montessori. International schools often follow the curriculum of another country, such as the UK or Australia, and may offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. Private schools typically charge tuition fees and may have additional admission requirements.

Do expats typically send their children to public or private school? How expensive are Private schools in Papua New Guinea?

Expats in PNG typically send their children to private or international schools due to the language of instruction and the familiarity of the curriculum. Private school fees can vary widely, ranging from PGK 5,000 to PGK 50,000 (approximately USD 1,500 to USD 15,000) per year, depending on the school's facilities, curriculum, and location.

Are you allowed to homeschool while living in Papua New Guinea?

Homeschooling is legally allowed in PNG, but it is not widely practiced. The Education Act of 1983 permits homeschooling as long as it follows the national curriculum or a recognized international curriculum. Families choosing to homeschool must register with the Department of Education.

May kids attend online school instead of a local school while living in Papua New Guinea?

Online schooling is an option for expats living in PNG, especially for those who prefer to follow their home country's curriculum or require more flexibility. However, it's essential to ensure that the online school is accredited and recognized. Additionally, consider the time zone differences and internet reliability when choosing an online school.