Macao

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Secondary Education

Sections

1. Structure of the Education System

Macao’s education system is divided into several stages, with secondary education being a key component. The system is overseen by the Education and Youth Development Bureau (DSEDJ).

  • Pre-Primary Education: Ages 3–6 (optional)
  • Primary Education: Ages 6–12 (compulsory)
  • Secondary Education: Ages 12–18 (compulsory until age 15)
    • Junior Secondary: Ages 12–15 (compulsory)
    • Senior Secondary: Ages 15–18 (optional but widely attended)

Secondary education is divided into Junior Secondary (Grades 7–9) and Senior Secondary (Grades 10–12). After completing senior secondary education, students can pursue higher education or vocational training.

2. Types of Schools Available

Macao offers a variety of schools for secondary education, catering to different needs and preferences. These include:

a. Public Schools

  • Funded and managed by the government.
  • Offer free education for both junior and senior secondary levels.
  • Typically follow the local curriculum set by the DSEDJ.

b. Private Schools

  • The majority of schools in Macao are private, but many are subsidized by the government.
  • Private schools can be divided into:
    • Subsidized Private Schools: Receive government funding and follow the local curriculum.
    • Non-Subsidized Private Schools: Operate independently and may follow international curricula.

c. International Schools

  • Cater to expatriates and locals seeking international education.
  • Offer curricula such as the International Baccalaureate (IB), British (IGCSE/A-Levels), or American (AP) systems.
  • Examples include The International School of Macao (TIS) and Macau Anglican College (MAC).

d. Vocational and Technical Schools

  • Focus on practical skills and career-oriented training.
  • Popular for students who prefer not to pursue traditional academic pathways.

3. Curriculum

The curriculum in Macao varies depending on the type of school, but here are the general guidelines:

a. Local Curriculum

  • Junior Secondary: Core subjects include Chinese, Portuguese, English, Mathematics, Science, History, Geography, Physical Education, and Arts.
  • Senior Secondary: Students can choose between academic and vocational tracks. Academic tracks focus on advanced studies in sciences, humanities, or commerce, while vocational tracks emphasize technical skills.
  • Moral and civic education is a key component, reflecting Macao’s cultural values.

b. International Curricula

  • International schools offer globally recognized programs such as:
    • IB Diploma Programme (IBDP)
    • IGCSE and A-Levels
    • Advanced Placement (AP)
  • These programs are taught in English and are designed to prepare students for universities worldwide.

c. Language of Instruction

  • Public and subsidized private schools primarily teach in Chinese (Cantonese), with Portuguese and English as secondary languages.
  • International schools teach in English, with some offering additional language options like Mandarin or Portuguese.

4. Costs

The cost of secondary education in Macao depends on the type of school:

a. Public Schools

  • Free for both junior and senior secondary levels.

b. Subsidized Private Schools

  • Low tuition fees due to government funding. Costs range from MOP 1,000–5,000 per year.

c. Non-Subsidized Private Schools

  • Higher tuition fees, typically ranging from MOP 20,000–50,000 per year.

d. International Schools

  • The most expensive option, with annual tuition fees ranging from MOP 70,000–150,000 or more, depending on the school and grade level.

5. Enrollment Procedures

The enrollment process varies depending on the type of school:

a. Public and Subsidized Private Schools

  1. Application Period: Typically begins in early spring (January–March).
  2. Documents Required:
    • Student’s birth certificate or ID card.
    • Proof of residence in Macao.
    • Previous school records or transcripts.
  3. Placement Tests: Some schools may require entrance exams for senior secondary levels.

b. Non-Subsidized Private and International Schools

  1. Application Period: Varies by school; early applications are recommended.
  2. Documents Required:
    • Student’s passport or ID card.
    • Previous school records or transcripts.
    • Recommendation letters (for some schools).
  3. Entrance Exams/Interviews: Many international schools require English proficiency tests and interviews.
  4. Application Fees: Non-refundable fees ranging from MOP 500–2,000.

6. Language of Instruction

  • Public and Subsidized Private Schools: Primarily Cantonese, with Portuguese and English as secondary languages.
  • International Schools: Primarily English, with options for additional languages.
  • Cultural Note: Portuguese is an official language of Macao, so students in public and subsidized schools are often required to study it, even if it is not their first language.

7. Local Considerations and Cultural Aspects

a. Multilingual Environment

  • Macao is a multilingual city, with Cantonese, Portuguese, and English widely spoken. This diversity is reflected in the education system, so students often learn multiple languages.

b. Emphasis on Moral Education

  • Schools in Macao place a strong emphasis on moral and civic education, reflecting Confucian values and the city’s cultural heritage.

c. Competitive Academic Environment

  • Education in Macao is highly valued, and students often face significant academic pressure, especially in senior secondary levels.

d. Religious Influence

  • Many private schools in Macao are affiliated with religious organizations, particularly Catholic and Protestant groups. These schools may include religious education as part of their curriculum.

e. Integration of Chinese and Portuguese Cultures

  • Macao’s unique blend of Chinese and Portuguese cultures is evident in its education system. Students are often exposed to both cultural traditions, which can be enriching for newcomers.

8. Tips for Newcomers

  • Research Schools Early: If you are considering private or international schools, start the application process well in advance, as spaces can be limited.
  • Language Support: If your child is not fluent in Cantonese, consider enrolling them in an international school or a private school with English instruction.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Encourage your child to embrace Macao’s multicultural environment by learning about both Chinese and Portuguese traditions.
  • Seek Assistance: The DSEDJ offers resources and support for new residents. Visit their website or office for guidance on school enrollment and education policies.

9. Key Contacts

  • Education and Youth Development Bureau (DSEDJ):
    Website: www.dsedj.gov.mo
    Phone: +853 8397 2000
    Address: Avenida de D. João IV, Macao

  • The International School of Macao (TIS):
    Website: www.tis.edu.mo
    Phone: +853 2853 3700

  • Macau Anglican College (MAC):
    Website: www.mac.edu.mo
    Phone: +853 2857 2222

This guide should provide you with a clear understanding of secondary education in Macao. If you have further questions or need assistance with specific schools, feel free to ask!