Independent Schools in Lesotho

Gross enrolment overall: 59.2% (2008)

Primary female–male ratio: 0.98:1 (2010)

Secondary female–male ratio: 1.38:1 (2010)

Primary pupil–teacher ratio: 34:1 (2010)

Secondary pupil–teacher ratio: 17:1 (2008)

There are seven years of compulsory education starting at age six. Primary school comprises seven years and secondary five, with cycles of three and two years. Some 52% of pupils complete primary school (2008). The school year starts in March.

The ministry’s Special Education Unit provides for learners with special education needs and is also responsible for the development of special education teacher-training programmes.

There are a number independent English-medium schools located in Maseru in Lesotho, offering courses of study for both British and North American qualifications. Schools include the American International School of Lesotho, Machabeng College, Maseru English Medium Preparatory and National University of Lesotho International School. The Lesotho Catholic Schools Secretariat is the liaison body between the Catholic Church and Ministry of Education.