Early childhood education focuses on the holistic development of children up to the age of five. It encompasses institutions such as daycare centers, basic and infant schools, and infant departments within primary and all-age schools. Basic schools are typically managed by community-based organizations, supplemented by government subsidies for salaries, nutrition, and classroom materials.
Primary education caters to children in grades one to six of primary and all-age schools. At this level, the curriculum aims to provide a foundation for acquiring knowledge, skills, and values essential for holistic development and lifelong learning. By the end of grade six, students are expected to demonstrate proficiency in literacy and numeracy by global standards, possess prerequisite knowledge and skills for secondary education, and cultivate a caring attitude towards themselves, others, and their environment.
Secondary education, commonly known as high school, prepares students for admission to tertiary institutions or entry into the workforce. The emphasis is on enhancing the quality, efficiency, and relevance of curricula. Performance at the secondary level is often assessed through external examinations such as the GCE 'O' and 'A' levels (British) and the Caribbean Examination Council (CXC).
Tertiary education in Jamaica is provided by government-funded institutions, including: