The school system in Greece: an overview
The Greek education system is divided into several levels, similar to other European countries:
- Kindergarten (Nipiagogeio): Compulsory for children aged 4 to 6
- Primary School (Dimotiko): Children from 6 to 12 years old follow a general education on six levels.
- Gymnasio): Pupils aged 12 to 15 continue their studies in compulsory lower secondary education.
- High School (Lykeio): After middle school, students can choose between general or technical high school for 15 to 18 year olds.
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Public education in Greece is free, including textbooks. However, Greek public schools operate primarily in the Greek language, which can be a barrier for expat children who do not yet speak the language.
International schools: an ideal solution for expats
For expat families, international schools are often the best option. These schools allow children to be taught in their mother tongue or in an international language such as English or French. In addition, they often follow globally recognized curricula, such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) or the British curriculum.
Here are some advantages of international schools in Greece:
- International Curriculum: These schools usually follow international curriculum, allowing for a smooth transition for the children of expats when they change countries.
- Multilingualism: Although the majority of international schools teach in English, some offer bilingual sections, with courses in Greek, French, German or other languages.
- Cultural diversity: International schools welcome students of many nationalities, fostering a multicultural and inclusive environment.
- Preparation for higher education: These schools often prepare students very well for international universities, giving them access to internationally recognized qualifications.
The main international schools in Greece
Most international schools in Greece are located in Athens, although some are also located in Thessaloniki or on the larger islands. Here is a selection of the best international schools in the country:
St. Catherine’s British School (Athens)
Located in Athens, St. Catherine’s British School is one of the most reputable international schools in Greece. It offers a British curriculum and prepares students for the IGCSE and A-Levels exams. It also offers the IB Diploma programme for older students.
- Language of instruction: English
- Program: British and IB
- Levels: Kindergarten to high school
American Community Schools (ACS Athens)
ACS Athens is a school that follows the American system while also offering the International Baccalaureate (IB). It welcomes students from more than 60 nationalities and offers a wide range of extra-curricular activities and academic programs.
- Language of instruction: English
- Program: American and IB
- Grades: Kindergarten to high school
International School of Athens (ISA)
ISA is another leading international school that offers the IB curriculum and an American curriculum. It is well known for its rigorous academic preparation, especially in the IB programme, which allows students to continue their studies at international universities.
- Language of instruction: English
- Program: IB and American
- Levels: From kindergarten to high school
École française d’Athènes (Lycée Franco-Hellénique Eugène Delacroix)
For French-speaking expatriates, the École française d’Athènes offers education in accordance with the French education system. Students can take courses from kindergarten to the baccalaureate.
- Language of instruction: French
- Program: French
- Levels: Kindergarten to high school
Deutsche Schule Athen (German School of Athens)
For German-speaking families, the Deutsche Schule Athen offers instruction in German with programs in line with the German education system. The school also follows a Greek curriculum, which provides flexibility for bi-national families.
- Language of instruction: German and Greek
- Syllabus: German
- Levels: Kindergarten to high school
Cost of International Schools in Greece
International schools in Greece, although of high quality, can represent a significant cost for expatriate families. Tuition fees vary depending on the school and level of study. Here is an estimate of the annual costs for some of the schools mentioned:
- Kindergarten and primary school fees: Approximately €8,000 to €12,000 per year.
- Tuition fees for middle and high school: Approximately €12,000 to €18,000 per year.
In addition to tuition fees, some schools may charge additional fees for extracurricular activities, school transportation, or teaching materials.
How to choose the right international school in Greece?
Choosing the right school for your children is an important decision, especially when living abroad. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice:
- Location: Consider how close the school is to where you live. Athens and Thessaloniki offer the largest selection of international schools, but the larger islands can also have some interesting options.
- Educational program: Make sure that the school offers an internationally recognized program that meets the future needs of your children.
- Language of instruction: Choose a school that offers instruction in your children’s language or in an international language, such as English, to ease their transition.
- Cost: Tuition fees can be high, so it’s essential to consider your budget and compare schools.
Conclusion
Greece offers a range of educational options for expats, including its quality international schools. These establishments allow children to receive instruction in a foreign language while benefiting from a world-renowned academic programme. Whether you’re looking for a British, American, French, or German program, Greece has schools to suit the needs of every expat family.
With the right preparation, you will be able to guarantee your children a high-level education in a multicultural environment while enjoying the sunny and welcoming way of life of Greece.
