Schools and education system in Sint Maarten

Schools in St. Maarten offer a blend of Dutch, English, and international options, catering to the diverse needs of local and expat families. Whether you’re looking for a public school that follows the Dutch system, a private school with an international curriculum, or a bilingual program that fosters language development, Sint Maarten has something for every family.

For families relocating to St. Maarten, the island provides not just quality education but also a lifestyle filled with enriching experiences, from its tropical beauty to its local community. It’s a place where learning goes beyond the classroom, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a well-rounded education in a paradise-like setting.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to what to expect when it comes to schools and learning in Sint Maarten:

Overview of the Education System

Sint Maarten, part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, shares the island with its French counterpart, Saint-Martin. As a result, the education system in St. Maarten is influenced by Dutch, French, and international approaches, providing a wide range of schooling options.

The official languages of instruction are Dutch and English, depending on the school, but most residents are also fluent in other languages like French and Spanish. This multilingual environment can be a great advantage for expat families looking to immerse their children in a diverse linguistic and cultural experience.

Education on the Dutch Side of St. Maarten is mandatory between the ages of 4 and 18.

Types of Schools

1. Public Schools

Public schools in Sint Maarten follow the Dutch educational system, and instruction is primarily in Dutch, though English is introduced at later stages. These schools cater to local and expat students alike and are subsidized by the government, making them an affordable option. The curriculum is rigorous, with a strong focus on foundational subjects such as mathematics, languages, sciences, and the arts.

2. Private and International Schools

If you are a foreign family planning to move to SXM and want to enroll your children in a school with an English-language curriculum, Sint Maarten has private and international schools that you may want to consider. These schools often follow American or Canadian curriculums and provide a more global approach to learning. Popular choices include:

The Learning Unlimited Preparatory School: This is an accredited American-style school offering education from preschool to high school, focused on academic excellence and college preparation.
St. Dominic High School: Is a Catholic institution that offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program, making it ideal for students seeking an internationally recognized curriculum.
Caribbean International Academy (CIA): Located near Saint-Martin (the French side), CIA follows a Canadian curriculum, providing yet another international option for families.

3. French-Side Schools

Depending on the case and If you’re living near the border or on the French side of the island, you can also explore French schools. These schools follow the French national education system, with instruction primarily in French. Sometimes, families interested in bilingual education or wanting their children to be part of the French-speaking community may find this option appealing.

Structure of the Education System

The education system in Sint Maarten is similar to the Dutch system. It has different levels for various age groups and educational needs.

· Early childhood education: This stage includes a variety of preschools, daycares, and kindergartens for children aged 2-4. Many preschools offer education programs in English, Dutch, or French, allowing children to develop language skills early in a supporting environment.

· Primary Education: Starts at age 4 and continues until the age of 12, covering grades from 1 to 6.

· Secondary Education: After completing primary education, students move on to secondary education, typically around the age of 12. This represents an important step forward in the tiny island nation’s efforts to educate its young citizens. Secondary education is divided into different streams, including vocational (VSBO) and academic paths (HAVO/VWO).

Students are encouraged to pursue subjects based on their abilities and interests. The schooling system in Sint Maarten makes emphasis on preparing them for either higher education or vocational training. This allows for a more tailored education that suits each student’s needs.

Each subject combination has a compulsory specialized component, including a project relating to the pupil’s specialized subjects. In addition, students choose one or two optional subjects relating to their subject combination and one other optional subject. HAVO pupils take seven subjects for their school leaving examinations and VWO pupils take eight. The different subjects are tested in an examination set by the school.

· Higher Education

For students interested in pursuing higher education in Sint Maarten, there are two universities to consider: The American University of the Caribbean which is an offshoot of the American medical training system in Cupecoy, it’s one of the most renowned medical schools in the region, attracting students from around the world. There is also the University of Sint Maarten (USM) located in Philipsburg. It offers programs in conjunction with offshore institutions, including associate and bachelor’s degree courses in business, liberal arts, applied science, education, and hospitality.

Higher education options on the island are limited. Many students choose to study abroad, especially in the Netherlands, the United States, or Canada. They often go to the Netherlands for more programs and opportunities.

Language and Cultural Diversities

Given St. Maarten’s cultural diversity, language plays a critical role in education. English and Dutch are the primary languages of instruction, with English being predominant due to its wider usage in daily life and commerce. However, Dutch remains an essential language, especially in higher education and legal matters. This bilingual approach provides students with the linguistic skills needed to thrive in both local and international contexts.

One of the most rewarding aspects of relocating to Sint Maarten is the multicultural environment your children will experience. With over 100 nationalities represented on the island, students interact with people from all around the world, broadening their perspectives and developing a deep appreciation for different cultures and languages.

Special Education

Sint Maarten is committed to providing educational opportunities for all children, including those with special needs. There are several schools and centers on the island that offer specialized support for children with learning disabilities, ensuring they receive the attention and resources they need to succeed.

Prins Willem Alexander School is a unique educational institution on the island dedicated to serving children with special needs and disabilities.

It aims to provide these students with special educational programs and related services based on their unique needs and to prepare them to function within the community. An individualized program (IEP) is developed for each child and the teachers provide a holistic approach to teaching while making each lesson student-centered.

Relocating with Kids to St. Maarten

Relocating to a new country can be challenging, but knowing your options when it comes to your children’s education makes the transition smoother. As you plan your move to Sint Maarten, rest assured that the island offers a welcoming and nurturing environment for children to learn, grow, and thrive.

Relocating to Sint Maarten can be exciting yet challenging, especially when it comes to finding the right school for your children. BrightPath Caribbean can help streamline the process with residency permits and accommodation while you focus on selecting the school that suits your kids’ needs.

By using our services, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free transition, allowing your family to settle into island life with ease. Let us take care of the details, so you can focus on enjoying your new adventure in Sint Maarten!

FAQ

1. What languages are used in schools in Sint Maarten?

Schools in Sint Maarten use Dutch and English as the primary languages of instruction, depending on the institution. French and Spanish are also commonly spoken on the island, giving students a rich multilingual environment.

2. What types of schools are available in Sint Maarten?

There are public schools, which follow the Dutch education system, and private or international schools, offering curricula based on American, or Canadian systems. Additionally, on the French side of the island, schools follow the French national curriculum.

3. What are the most popular private and international schools?

The most popular private schools in Sint Maarten are Learning Unlimited Preparatory School, St. Dominic High School, and Caribbean International Academy (CIA).

Do you have additional questions?

Contact us today for a free consultation and let us guide you throughout the process!

Disclaimer: Our articles are not intended as (legal) advice and do not take your personal circumstances into consideration. BrightPath does not accept any liability for damages resulting from using the provided information. We highly recommend you to seek personalized advice from us or before you act or fail to act because of the content of our articles. BrightPath is a privately-owned consulting firm that assists clients with filing applications for residence permits and/or business licenses at the relevant government departments. None of our directors, employees or agents hold or have held any position with the government of Sint Maarten and our service does not provide for any preferential treatment with regards to any application. All information provided and statements made only serve to provide you with a general understanding of immigration, residence and business incorporation procedures on Sint Maarten.

Schools and education system in Sint Maarten