Independent Schools in Fiji

Gross enrolment overall: 69.3% (2007)

Primary female–male ratio: 0.99:1 (2009)

Secondary female–male ratio: 1.09:1 (2009)

Primary pupil–teacher ratio: 26:1 (2008)

Secondary pupil–teacher ratio: 19:1 (2008)

There are eight years of compulsory education starting at age six. Primary school comprises eight years and secondary three. Some 91% of pupils complete primary school (2007). The school year starts in January.

Parents in Fiji have the option of sending their children to one of almost 20 independent schools that exist in the country. Private schools such as the International School Suva and the International School Nadi both offer international qualifications, notably the International Baccalaureate and IGCSEs. The Yat Sen Primary and Secondary Schools both offer extensive teaching in Mandarin, largely catering to the country’s Chinese population. Independent schools must register with the Ministry of Education, as the ministry is responsible for fees, curricula and the qualification of teachers in schools of all kinds.