Going to School-The Greek Education System
Starting a new school anywhere can be a frightening prospect. Living in a foreign country however, can have the added problems of not understanding the language or culture,and can make it twice as difficult.
If you are planning for your child to go to school in Greece, then bear in mind that there are very few full-time international schools anywhere on the Greek Islands, the only full-time schools are Greek schools.
Home education is illegal all over Greece. The compulsory age to study in Greece is from 6-15 years old. Greek schools start from 8.15am and finish at either 1.30 or 2.00 in the afternoon.
Generally, younger children adjust easier and faster to learning the language and settling in.If the child is not fluent in Greek, it is likely that they will be put into a younger class, so they can learn the language skills needed for their schooling. Older Children can find it uncomfortable and difficult to be kept behind in a lower class, if their ability to speak Greek is not up to a reasonable level.
Younger children can start nursery from the age of 4. Children start primary school at 6 years old. They will attend their primary school for 6 years and then continue their education in High school until they are 15 years old. Private nursery schools will take in young babies and children up to the age of 5.
To register a child into a Greek school or nursery school, you will need to show the school or education authorities a utilities bill or any other document or bill proving that you live in the area. The document you show to the authorities must have your current address clearly visible.
On graduating compulsory education at 15 years, you can continue straight through to further education by taking A or B levels at an upper secondary school.
There are also a range of universities to continue studying at on completing an entrance examination.