Education and Schools in Fiji

The education system in Fiji comprises public and private schooling. The standard of public schools in Fiji varies quite dramatically, though. While expat students are eligible to enrol in Fiji's public schools, most expat parents don't go for this option due to variable quality and underfunding.

Expats in Fiji tend to send their children to private schools, with the majority opting for international schools.

Public schools in Fiji

In Fiji, education is divided into three main stages:

• Early Childhood: ages 3 to 5 (not compulsory)
• Primary: ages 6 to 13 (compulsory)
• Secondary: ages 14 to 18 (compulsory until age 16)

Public schools in Fiji are open to expat enrolment, and attendance during the compulsory school-going years (6 to 17) is free. That said, funding is often inadequate, and the result is wide variability in the standard of government schools. For this reason, most expat parents prefer to opt for private and international schools in Fiji.

Useful links

• Ministry of Education, Fiji

Private and international schools in Fiji

Private schools in Fiji teach the local curriculum but are funded by school fees rather than the government. This makes them a pricier but usually more reliable option. Some private schools in Fiji teach through a particular religious lens.

International schools in Fiji teach globally renowned foreign curricula, such as that of the UK and the International Baccalaureate (IB). There are only a handful of international schools throughout Fiji, the most prominent of which are International School Suva and International School Nadi.

Expat parents typically prefer international schooling for their children. High demand for places can make it challenging to secure a spot in an international school, though, so if you wish to take this route, it's best to start the application process as early as possible. 

Fees for international schools are expensive. If you're moving to Fiji for work, it's a good idea to negotiate provisions for school fees as part of your relocation package.

Useful links

• International School Suva
• International School Nadi

Special-needs education in Fiji

Parents whose children have learning difficulties or special needs can rest assured that their educational needs will be met. Fiji's constitution mandates school attendance for all children regardless of special needs status and that all children should be allowed to learn together wherever possible. Children with special needs are therefore accommodated in mainstream classrooms as far as possible. In cases where disabilities are too severe, children are placed in specialised facilities catering for their specific needs.

Useful links

• Ministry of Education, Fiji – Special & Inclusive Education

Tutors in Fiji

Tutors are a valuable resource for children arriving in an unfamiliar environment and adjusting to a new curriculum. Hiring a tutor is also helpful for children who struggle in specific subjects such as maths or science, or for those who require assistance with university entrance exams. 

Teachers or fellow parents at your child's school in Fiji are a great resource for finding local tutors. If you'd prefer to go the online route, try companies such as Apprentus and TeacherOn.

Useful links

• Apprentus
• TeacherOn