Education and Schools in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe boasts a long-standing tradition of valuing education, with one of the highest literacy rates in Africa. The country has both public and private schools available, with the latter being pricier. 

Public education in Zimbabwe can vary in quality, with government schools often facing challenges such as insufficient resources and outdated facilities. Many expats, therefore, choose private or international schools for their children, ensuring a high standard of education that meets international expectations.

Public schools in Zimbabwe

Public schools in Zimbabwe are government-funded and can differ significantly in terms of standards. A recent amendment to the Education Amendment Act has made 12 years of schooling compulsory in Zimbabwe. 

While Zimbabwe’s public schools have a legacy of producing well-educated individuals, the quality has fluctuated over the years due to economic challenges. Many public schools face issues such as overcrowded classrooms, limited teaching resources, and outdated facilities. That said, some urban schools, particularly those in Harare and Bulawayo, still maintain high standards and are frequently the preferred choice for local families.  

For expats, public schools can be an affordable option, but may not always meet the expectations of those accustomed to Western-style education systems. Public schools may also have fewer extracurricular activities compared to private institutions. 

Zimbabwe’s education system is structured into three levels: primary, secondary, and tertiary.  

• Primary school begins at age 6 until 12, culminating in the Zimbabwe School Examinations Council (ZIMSEC) Grade Seven examinations. 
• Secondary education takes places over four years and ends at 16 when students take O-Level exams. After this, students pursuing higher education can take two years of A-level studies.  

The curriculum is standardised and government-regulated, emphasising mathematics, science, languages (including English), social studies, and practical subjects like agriculture. English is the primary language of instruction, making it accessible to expat families. Local languages such as Shona and Ndebele are also taught.   

Private schools in Zimbabwe

Private schools in Zimbabwe are generally of higher quality than government schools, offering better facilities, smaller class sizes, and a more extensive range of extracurricular activities. These schools are mostly attended by children from middle- to high-income families, including expatriates. 

Several private schools in Harare provide both Zimbabwean and international curricula, making them a good option for expats looking for flexibility in terms of educational standards. Private schools cater to various educational philosophies and religious affiliations, providing parents with numerous choices to suit their children’s needs.

Many private schools in Zimbabwe have a Christian ethos and integrate religious values into their curriculum. For parents seeking alternative approaches to education, there are Montessori schools in major cities like Harare, which focus on child-led learning and holistic development. While Waldorf schools are less common, some institutions incorporate elements of this philosophy, emphasising creativity and experiential learning.  

Private schools in Zimbabwe are relatively expensive, with tuition fees varying depending on the institution and its facilities. Admission is competitive, so parents are advised to apply early, especially for sought-after schools. Many schools require entrance exams and interviews as part of the process. 

Useful links

• Association of Trust Schools

International schools in Zimbabwe

International schools in Harare are a popular choice for expat families. These schools offer globally recognised curricula such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) and the British and American systems, ensuring that children can continue their education with familiar teaching methods. 

International schools provide a strong sense of continuity for children who may move between countries, offering an educational environment that aligns with their home country's system. The quality of international schools in Harare is generally high, with modern facilities, dedicated teaching staff, and a variety of extracurricular opportunities.

That said, there are two notable drawbacks to international schools. Firstly, fees can be pricey, and secondly, places at the most popular schools can be limited. We recommend beginning the application process as early as possible to ensure you can secure a place for your child. 

For those moving to Zimbabwe for work, it may be worth asking for school fees to be included as part of the relocation package to help offset the cost.

Top private and international schools in Harare

The British International School (BIS) 
The British International School is one of Harare’s premier international schools, offering a British-based curriculum leading to the Cambridge IGCSEs and the International Baccalaureate (IB). It is known for its high academic standards, excellent facilities, and a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and drama. BIS is popular with expats due to its reputation for providing a strong academic foundation and smooth transitions for children moving from other countries. 

The International School of Zimbabwe (ISZ) 
The International School of Zimbabwe offers an American-style curriculum and the opportunity to graduate with an American high school diploma. The school caters to expat children from kindergarten through to Grade 12. ISZ is known for its rigorous standards, modern facilities, and international student body. 

St. John's College 
St. John's College is a prestigious private school in Harare that follows the Zimbabwean curriculum, but strongly emphasises academic excellence and extracurricular development. It is particularly well-regarded for its sports programmes and arts facilities. The school provides both boarding and day school options, making it suitable for both local and international families. 

Harare International School (HIS) 
Harare International School offers the full International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum from kindergarten through to high school. It has a strong reputation for academic excellence and a robust extracurricular programme, including sports, music, and leadership opportunities. HIS is one of the top choices for expat families seeking a global education for their children, as it provides a seamless transition between different educational systems.

Monte Casino School 
Monte Casino is another popular private school in Harare, offering both a regarded academic programme and a range of extracurricular activities. The school follows a mixed curriculum, offering both the Zimbabwean and British curricula. Known for its nurturing environment, it caters to various needs, from children with specific learning requirements to those excelling in academics and sports.

Special-needs education in Zimbabwe

Providing adequate support for children with special needs is an evolving aspect of Zimbabwe’s education system. There are significant differences between public and private options for special-needs education. 

Most public schools in Zimbabwe lack specialised resources and trained staff to cater to children with disabilities or learning difficulties. Facilities are often basic, and individualised support is limited.  

In contrast, many private and international schools in Zimbabwe are better equipped to support special-needs students. These schools frequently have smaller class sizes, enabling more personalised attention.  

Some institutions employ trained special-needs educators and offer tailored programmes, such as Individualised Education Plans (IEPs), to accommodate students with diverse requirements. That said, these services come at a premium and may not be available at all private schools. 

There are also dedicated special-needs schools and centres in Zimbabwe, such as the Emerald Hill School for the Deaf in Harare and the King George VI Centre in Bulawayo, which cater specifically to children with physical disabilities and hearing impairments. 

Tutors in Zimbabwe

For expat families seeking additional academic support for their children, hiring a private tutor can be an effective solution. Tutors are widely available in Zimbabwe and can assist with various needs, including exam preparation, remedial support, and enrichment in specific subjects. 

You can find a tutor through a local agency, school recommendations, or expat networks. Online platforms have also become a popular way to connect with experienced educators, especially for families in remote areas or those preferring virtual lessons. With the availability of private tutors, families can further supplement their children’s learning journey in Zimbabwe. 

Useful links

• TeacherOn
• Spires Online Tutors
• Apprentus