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Private schools in Sri Lanka provide an alternative to the public school system, offering various educational approaches for families who seek different options. These schools are privately funded, primarily through tuition fees, donations, or endowments, and they may offer either local or international curricula. While some private schools follow Sri Lanka's national education standards, others offer internationally recognized qualifications.
Private schools in Sri Lanka can be classified into several categories, including those that follow the local curriculum, international curriculum, semi-government schools, and government-aided schools. Schools with a local curriculum adhere to national education standards, while those with an international curriculum offer qualifications recognized worldwide. Semi-government schools are partly funded by the government but operate with a degree of independence. Government-aided schools receive financial support from the government while maintaining private management.
Private Schools with Local Curriculum
Private schools in Sri Lanka that follow the local curriculum are referred to as "private schools." These institutions generally provide education in the national languages of Sinhala, Tamil, and English. Some private schools with local curriculums may offer education solely in English.
Examples of well-known private schools offering local curriculums include S. Thomas' College, St. Joseph's College, St. Peter's College and Trinity College, Kandy. Notable girls' schools with local curriculums include Ladies' College, Colombo, Bishop's College, Colombo, and Hillwood College, Kandy. These schools prepare students for national examinations and focus on cultural values and local traditions.
Local private schools do not offer international qualifications such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) or Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) but continue to be popular among families seeking traditional education.
Private Schools with International Curriculum
Private schools in Sri Lanka offering international curriculums are known as "international schools." These schools provide education based on internationally recognized curriculums such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) or Cambridge International Examinations (CIE).
Prominent international schools in Sri Lanka include Colombo International School, Gateway College, Elizabeth Moir School, and Lyceum International School. These schools aim to prepare students for international higher education and typically feature a diverse student body. The curriculums are designed to be comprehensive, covering a wide range of subjects, including foreign languages, arts, and humanities. Teachers at these schools are trained to deliver international curriculums and provide students with a global perspective.
Semi-government Schools
Semi-government schools in Sri Lanka are partially funded by the government and partially by private means. These schools have more autonomy compared to government schools, allowing for independent decision-making and management.
Semi-government schools are considered a compromise between government and private schools, offering a blend of quality education and affordability. They often emphasize both academic excellence and cultural values.