Educational System in Fiji

Fiji, an island country in the South Pacific, has a well-structured educational system that is largely based on the British model. Education is highly valued in Fijian society and is seen as a means of achieving social mobility. The Fijian government provides free education for primary and secondary school students, and there are also a number of private and international schools available. This guide will provide an overview of the educational system in Fiji, including the main stages of education, how to enroll your children in school, language requirements, and options for private, bilingual, and online schooling.

What are the main stages of education in Fiji?

The Fijian educational system is divided into four main stages: Early Childhood Education, Primary Education, Secondary Education, and Tertiary Education. Early Childhood Education is for children aged 3-5 years, Primary Education is for children aged 6-13 years, Secondary Education is for students aged 14-18 years, and Tertiary Education includes vocational training and university education.

Early Childhood Education

Early Childhood Education in Fiji is not compulsory and caters to children between the ages of 3 and 5. It focuses on the holistic development of the child, including physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development. There are both public and private kindergartens available, with some offering bilingual programs.

Primary Education

Primary Education in Fiji is compulsory and free in public schools. It caters to children aged 6 to 13 and is divided into eight grades. The curriculum focuses on basic literacy and numeracy skills, as well as science, social studies, arts, and physical education. English is the medium of instruction in all schools.

Secondary Education

Secondary Education in Fiji is divided into two stages: Junior Secondary (Form 3-5) and Senior Secondary (Form 6-7). It is also free in public schools. The curriculum includes a broad range of subjects, and students sit for external examinations at the end of Form 4, Form 6, and Form 7.

Tertiary Education

Tertiary Education in Fiji includes vocational training and university education. There are several universities and vocational institutions in Fiji, including the University of the South Pacific, which is jointly owned by twelve Pacific Island countries.

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

Newcomers to Fiji can enroll their children in school by contacting the school directly. They will need to provide proof of residence, the child's birth certificate, and previous school records. If the child is not a Fijian citizen, a student visa may also be required.

Can children still learning English enroll in a public school?

Yes, children who are still learning English can enroll in public schools in Fiji. English is the medium of instruction in all schools, but additional language support is available for students who are not proficient in English.

Are there public bilingual schools?

Yes, there are public bilingual schools in Fiji. These schools offer instruction in both English and Fijian or Hindi, the two main local languages. Admission to these schools is based on the same criteria as other public schools.

What types of private schools are common in Fiji?

There are several types of private schools in Fiji, including religious schools (mainly Christian and Hindu), international schools, and bilingual schools. International schools often follow the curriculum of their home country and cater mainly to expatriate families.

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

Expats in Fiji typically send their children to private or international schools. These schools offer a more familiar curriculum and environment for expatriate children, and often have smaller class sizes and more resources than public schools.

How expensive are Private schools in Fiji?

The cost of private schools in Fiji varies widely, depending on the type of school and the level of education. International schools are generally the most expensive, with annual fees ranging from FJD 10,000 to FJD 20,000.

Are you allowed to homeschool while living in Fiji?

Yes, homeschooling is allowed in Fiji. Parents who wish to homeschool their children must apply for permission from the Ministry of Education and follow the national curriculum.

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

Yes, children living in Fiji may attend online school instead of a local school. However, parents should ensure that the online school is accredited and that the curriculum meets the requirements of the Fijian education system.