Educational System in Angola

Angola, a country located in Southern Africa, has a unique educational system that has been shaped by its history and cultural influences. The system is divided into several stages, each with its own focus and age group. As an expat, understanding this system can be crucial in ensuring your children receive the best possible education. This guide will provide an overview of the Angolan educational system, including the main stages, enrollment process, language requirements, availability of bilingual schools, common types of private schools, and the options for homeschooling and online schooling.

What are the main stages of education in Angola?

The Angolan educational system is divided into four main stages: Pre-school (Educação Pré-Escolar), Primary Education (Ensino Primário), Secondary Education (Ensino Secundário), and Higher Education (Ensino Superior). Each stage has a specific age group and educational focus, designed to provide students with a comprehensive and progressive learning experience.

Pre-school (Educação Pré-Escolar)

Pre-school in Angola is for children aged 3 to 5 years old. This stage focuses on the child's overall development, including physical, emotional, and social growth. It is not compulsory, but it is highly recommended to prepare children for primary education.

Primary Education (Ensino Primário)

Primary education in Angola is compulsory and caters to children aged 6 to 11 years old. This stage focuses on basic literacy, numeracy, and the development of fundamental knowledge in various subjects such as science, social studies, and the local language, Portuguese.

Secondary Education (Ensino Secundário)

Secondary education in Angola is divided into two cycles: the first cycle (7th to 9th grade) and the second cycle (10th to 12th grade). This stage aims to deepen the knowledge acquired in primary school and prepare students for higher education or vocational training.

Higher Education (Ensino Superior)

Higher education in Angola includes universities and other institutions that offer undergraduate and postgraduate courses. Admission is based on the results of the national examination taken at the end of secondary education.

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

To enroll your child in an Angolan school, you will need to provide a birth certificate, proof of residence, and previous school records. If these documents are not in Portuguese, they may need to be translated and notarized. It's also important to note that the school year in Angola runs from February to December.

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

Yes, children who are still learning Portuguese can enroll in public schools in Angola. However, it's important to note that the medium of instruction in public schools is Portuguese, so additional language support may be needed.

Are there public bilingual schools?

There are a few public bilingual schools in Angola, particularly in the capital, Luanda. These schools offer instruction in both Portuguese and English. Admission for international students typically involves an application process and possibly an entrance exam.

What types of private schools are common in Angola?

Private schools in Angola include international schools, bilingual schools, and religious schools, such as Catholic schools. International schools often follow the curriculum of their home country and offer instruction in English or other languages. Bilingual schools offer instruction in both Portuguese and another language, typically English.

Do expats typically send their children to public or private school?

Many expats in Angola choose to send their children to private schools, particularly international schools. This is often due to the language barrier in public schools and the high standard of education offered by private institutions.

How expensive are Private schools in Angola?

Private school fees in Angola can vary widely, depending on the school and the level of education. International schools tend to be the most expensive, with fees ranging from a few thousand to several thousand dollars per year. It's advisable to contact the school directly for the most accurate information.

Are you allowed to homeschool while living in Angola?

Homeschooling is not common in Angola and there are no specific laws regulating it. However, it's generally accepted if the parents can prove that the child is receiving a suitable education. It's advisable to consult with the local education authorities for guidance.

May kids attend online school instead of a local school while living in Angola?

Online schooling is an option in Angola, particularly for expats. There are several international online schools that offer a full curriculum for various grades. However, it's important to ensure that the online school is accredited and that the curriculum meets the educational standards of your home country.