By Qatar, the Global Hub of Education, has a population of nearly 3 million and 529 primary and secondary schools serving 347,841 students as of the 2019/2020 pandemic. (Source: Taylor & Francis)
A country’s education system is capable of transforming individuals and societies. Its importance cannot be overlooked.
As Malcolm X postulated, “Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare.”
The Qatar education system is known worldwide. They offer free, compulsory, and high-quality public education for nationals from kindergarten through secondary schools.
Let’s discuss in detail the Qatar Education system.
Overview of the Supreme Education Council (SEN)
The Supreme Education Council was created by a decree number 37 in 2002. The council controls and directs the education system at all levels from preschool to university.
- SEN oversees semi-independent schools and develops curriculum standards.
- Second, it conducts national assessments of student learning in independent K-12 schools. Additionally, it is also responsible for licensing teachers.
- It also assists students in applying for colleges.
Education Profile of Qatar
Education in Qatar is divided into two stages: basic education and secondary education.
Basic education is further divided into preschool, primary, and secondary education.
Moreover, the public school system in Qatar is 12 years. Additionally, it consists of 6 years of the elementary cycle. It is then followed by a 3-year secondary cycle and then a 3-year higher cycle.
Moreover, the elementary and preparatory levels help develop basic numeracy and digital skills. On the other hand, secondary levels emphasise preparing students for higher studies, vocational training, or entering the labor market.
Preschool Education in Qatar
Pre-school is not mandatory in Qatar. However, it is effective for little ones to socialise with other kids. Through this, children also gain mental and sensory skills which help in primary schools.
- Children (aged 0-3) are admitted to nurseries.
- Kindergarten or preschool takes children (aged 3-5).
Further, preschool education in Qatar does not have waiting lists. Also, you can find international preschools of every kind here. However, just make sure to check their regulations, as some might not have qualified staff.
Moreover, the cost of preschool in Qatar is between QAR 15,000 and QAR 40,000.
Primary/Elementary Education in Qatar
Primary education in Qatar is overseen by the SEC for independent schools. And by the QNSA for private schools.
- Duration: 6 years
- Ages: 6-12
- Grades: 1-6
Public primary school in Qatar
These schools are government-funded and free for Qatari citizens. They teach in the Arabic language. Also, their mandatory subjects include math, English, science, and Islamic studies.
Furthermore, rote memorisation and repetition are common teaching methods used. However, it can also vary as per the individual school’s choice.
Private Primary School in Qatar
International schools might be based in a particular country, like a French school. In addition, they may also practice any specific education model, like GCSE.
Some schools cater to both primary and secondary students. Therefore, your child might not need to switch schools.
Also, the costs are set by the school as per the grade level. However, it is often between QAR 20,000 and QAR 65,000.
Preparatory Education in Qatar
Preparatory is a critical intermediate level between primary and secondary education. In addition, it prepares students for secondary which transmits into general, technical, and commercial streams.
Moreover, the curriculum covers Arabic language, English, Math, Social Studies, Islamic Studies, Physical Education, and Art.
- Duration: 3 years
- Ages: 13-15
- Grades: 7-9
Secondary Education in Qatar
Secondary education in Qatar is not compulsory. Upon completing the general preparatory studies, students can attend general, technical, or commercial secondary institutions in Qatar.
- Duration: 3 years
- Ages: 15 to 18
- Grades: 10 to 12
Public Secondary Schools in Qatar
These schools are free for Qatari children. Also, they set their own education plan. But the quality varies depending on the quality of staff and other factors.
The required subjects include Arabic, English, Math, Islamic Studies and Science. Students who aim for a vocational secondary school must look for schools that focus on subjects like finance, business, religion, accounting, etc.
Private Secondary Schools in Qatar
You can find numerous private secondary schools in Qatar. They cater to different curricula, from the German National curriculum to GCSE or International Baccalaureate (IB) curricula.
Also, keep in mind that these schools have waiting lists. So you are not guaranteed to find a spot in your preferred school.
Higher Education in Qatar
Higher education in Qatar focuses on building a knowledge-based economy. It features over 30 public and private institutions and offers diverse undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
Moreover, the government also provides scholarships to Qatari students to manage their academic expenses.
Given the academic rigour of these programs, students often seek assignment writing help to manage their academic grades like a pro.
Education Support for Special Needs Children in Qatar
The Qatari parents often look for special needs assistance in schools.
Many schools provide assistance with special needs. However, some parents prefer to opt for specialised centers for it.
So if you are one of them, make sure to perform your research well. Look for either a school or a specialised center that is suitable for your child.
If looking for special educational needs (SEN) schools in Qatar, Shafallah Centre and the Al Noor Institute for the Visually Impaired are reliable. In addition, they offer workshops, testing, and other required support to the kids.
On the other hand, Renand Academy help those students who are diagnosed with mild to moderate Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
Final Words
Qatar’s education system is built to turn the nation into a global knowledge hub. It offers both public and private schooling options for expats, ensuring every child has a path to success from the first day of kindergarten.
Qatar provides a world-class environment for learning. While the workload can be intense, the rewards of a Qatari education open doors to careers both locally and across the globe.
Is Qatar good for education?
Yes, Qatar is an excellent destination for education. It has a heavily funded system. Qatar is home to several world-class institutions that offer UK-certified degrees. It also offers curricula, including IB and American, that focus on critical thinking and English-medium instruction.
How much is the salary of a teacher in Qatar?
The average teacher salary in Qatar is QAR 5,000 per month, going up to QAR 17,000, depending on industry, job location, and candidate profile.
Can I work while studying in Qatar?
GU-Q students can work up to 20 hours a week while classes are in session. In addition, they can work 40 hours during the semester break
