Independent Schools in Tonga

Gross enrolment overall: 83.0% (2006)

Primary female–male ratio: 0.96:1 (2007)

There are nine years of compulsory education starting at age five. More than 95% of primary students attend state schools, while about 90% of secondary students attend church schools. Some 90% of pupils complete primary school (2005). The school year starts in February.

Tongan law requires there to be a school on every habitable island where there are children of compulsory school age. The government controls most primary schools however the majority of high schools are independent. The major island of Tongatapu has over ten independent schools, including Liahona High School which is one of the largest schools on the island. It has around 50 full-time teachers and 1,000 students with around 260 graduating in 2010. Ha’apai, Vava’u and ‘Eua also have recognised non-governmental schools; these include Taufa’ahau I Pilolevu College, St Channel College and Hofangahau College.