Schools and education system in Sint Maarten
WONDERING ABOUT SCHOOLS AND THE EDUCATION SYSTEM IN ST MAARTEN
If you’ve decided to move to St. Maarten with your family, you may be wondering about schools in St. Maarten. It is very important to understand the education system in St. Maarten and which schools would best suit the needs of your child or children. Keep reading to learn about the primary, secondary and post-secondary schools in St. Maarten.
Is school mandatory in St. Maarten?
Education on the Dutch Side of St. Maarten is compulsory between ages of 4 and 18.
Are there public schools in St. Maarten?
On the island of St. Maarten, there are 16 public primary schools. Some examples of public schools include Methodist Agogic Center (M.A.C) and Sint Dominic Primary School. These schools enable your child/children to reach their full academic potential as well as meet their social and spiritual needs. You will be required to pay approximately NAF 400 per year per child for them to attend a public school in St. Maarten.
Are there private schools in St. Maarten?
On the island of St. Maarten, there are two private primary schools – Caribbean International Academy (CIA) and Learning Unlimited Preparatory School (LU). These schools teach children from kindergarten age to Grade 12 and stress learning decision-making, time management, creative and critical thinking skills. You will be required to pay approximately USD $1000 per month per year per child for them to attend a private school in St. Maarten.
Are there any special education schools in St. Maarten?
On the island of St. Maarten, there is one public elementary school that provides special education for students with a range of disabilities. The Prins Willem-Alexander School is dedicated to educating students living with learning disabilities, neurological disorders, ADHD, Down syndrome, autism or any other disabilities that would impact education in other primary and secondary schools on the island.
Are there high schools in St. Maarten?
There are nine high schools in St. Maarten including one Dutch secondary school and two faith-based secondary schools that promote Christian ideals and values.
Is there a performing arts school in St. Maarten?
St. Maarten has one performing arts school called The Charlotte Brookson Academy of the Performance Arts, offering both academic and artistic education. Talent showcases are common for these students and they often have opportunities to travel abroad. You will be required to pay approximately NAF 900 per year per child for them to attend St. Maarten’s performing arts school.
Are there any vocational or technical schools in St. Maarten?
The National Institute for Professional Advancement (NIPA) is the only government recognized for advance vocational technical education in St. Maarten. NIPA offers advanced vocational education for students who want to further their education after secondary schools and adults already in the workforce. Their programs are tailored to the needs and interests of the labor market and the wider St. Maarten community. The price you pay to attend St. Maarten’s vocational school depends on the course taken.
Are there any universities in St. Maarten?
There are two universities in St. Maarten. The University of Sint Maarten is committed to offering quality academic education that will provide students with a solid foundation to start their career. The American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine St. Maarten’s only medical school and tuition is approximately USD $22,000 per semester.
Do you have any questions?