Education and Schools in the Philippines

Choosing the right school in the Philippines can feel overwhelming at first, but you’ll find plenty of options that cater to different educational needs and standards.

Public schooling in the Philippines often faces challenges such as underfunding and a shortage of resources. Because of this, many families opt for private or international schools, which generally offer a higher standard of education.

Public schools in the Philippines

Public schools in the Philippines follow a structure similar to the US education system, shaped by the country’s colonial history. Schooling is compulsory for children aged 5 to 18.

English and Filipino are the primary languages of instruction, although for the first three years of school, students are taught in their region’s dominant language before transitioning to English or Filipino.

The school year typically runs from June to March or April, with a Monday-to-Friday schedule and long school hours.

While public schools are free, they often struggle with large class sizes, a lack of learning materials, and underpaid teachers. Student-teacher ratios are improving over time, and studies show that smaller class sizes lead to better literacy and learning outcomes. The government is also piloting a revised senior high school curriculum to better align with industry demands and job market trends.

Useful links

• Philippine Department of Education
• K-12 Curriculum Overview

Private schools in the Philippines

Private schools in the Philippines follow the same national curriculum as public schools but generally offer smaller class sizes, better facilities, and a higher standard of education. Many were founded as missionary or Christian institutions, although they now cater to a diverse student body.

Many institutions are integrating technology into their curricula, using digital platforms for more interactive and personalised learning. Facilities in private schools are also evolving to meet modern educational standards.

Useful links

• Private Education Assistance Committee

International schools in the Philippines

International schools in the Philippines offer a globally recognised education, with most located in Manila and catering to a diverse expat community. You’ll find institutions following American, British, French, Japanese, and German curricula, among others.

Most international schools follow the curriculum and language of their home country, with many also offering the International Baccalaureate (IB), Advanced Placement (AP), or International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) programmes.

Admissions procedures typically involve academic assessments and interviews. Some schools tailor entrance tests based on a child’s age, academic background, and English proficiency. Others require students who enrol mid-term to meet specific attendance criteria to receive grades. It’s always best to check individual school websites or speak with admissions offices directly, as requirements vary.

Enrolment at international schools can be competitive, with spaces filling up quickly. Starting the application process well in advance can help secure a place, particularly if you’re moving mid-year. If your employer is relocating you, it’s worth negotiating school fees into your expat package, as tuition can be a significant expense.

Nurseries and kindergartens in the Philippines

Nurseries in the Philippines provide early childhood education (ECE) for children aged 0 to 4, with preschools catering to those aged 3 to 4, and kindergartens for 5-year-olds under the Department of Education (DepEd). If you’re moving to a major city like Manila, you’ll have a wide range of nurseries and early learning centres to choose from, including standalone facilities and those attached to larger international or private schools.

The Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) Council has introduced national guidelines to ensure nurseries offer a holistic approach to learning. These cover cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development, integrating health and nutrition to support overall well-being.

Traffic congestion in cities like Manila means proximity to home or work is often a key consideration. Some parents also look for nurseries that offer flexible schedules or extended daycare options, making life easier for working families.

Useful links

• ECCD Council – Early Childhood Education Standards
• DepEd Kindergarten Education

Special-needs education in the Philippines

Special-needs education in the Philippines has been expanding, with efforts to make learning more inclusive. Public schools are encouraged to accommodate students with disabilities, even if they lack specialised teachers. Many of these schools receive support from dedicated Special Education (SPED) centres, while others offer inclusive classroom settings where students with disabilities learn alongside their peers.

Private schools offer varying levels of special-needs support. Some Montessori-based and international schools provide individualised learning plans, but the extent of resources differs. Schools often require professional evaluations before designing an academic programme tailored to a child’s needs.

Several organisations provide additional support for parents. Groups such as the Autism Society Philippines, the National Council on Disability Affairs, and the Asia-Pacific Center on Disability offer resources, training, and advocacy for children with disabilities.

Useful links

• National Council on Disability Affairs
• Autism Society Philippines
• Asia-Pacific Center on Disability

Tutors in the Philippines

Tutors in the Philippines are widely available. The tutoring scene has evolved with a rise in online platforms and personalised learning approaches. On-demand services such as Edukasyon.ph’s EDGE Tutor make it easy to connect with qualified tutors, while traditional learning centres like AHEAD and Kumon provide structured programmes.

Many tutors specialise in international curricula, helping expat students adjust to new academic environments. When choosing a tutor, consider their educational background, experience, and reviews from other parents. Arranging a trial session can help ensure their teaching style suits your child’s learning needs.

For language learning, platforms like Tutoroo and AmazingTalker connect students with private tutors for one-on-one lessons in English, Filipino, and other languages. Local Facebook groups and expat forums are also useful for finding recommendations.

Useful links

• EDGE Tutor
• AHEAD Learning Systems
• Kumon Philippines
• Tutoroo