Private school (Sri Lanka)

Sri Lankan Private schools offer an alternative education option for families seeking different approaches to education compared to the public school system. These schools are funded through private means, including tuition fees, donations, or endowments, and may offer either a local or international curriculum. Private schools in Sri Lanka are known for their diverse educational approaches and may provide either local or internationally recognized qualifications.

Private schools in Sri Lanka can be categorized into several types, including those with local curriculums, international curriculums, semi-government schools, and government-aided schools. Schools with local curriculums adhere to national education standards, while those with international curriculums offer globally recognized qualifications. Government-aided schools receive financial support from the government, and government schools with autonomy have some degree of operational independence.

Private Schools with Local Curriculum

Private schools in Sri Lanka that follow the local curriculum are referred to as "private schools." These institutions generally provide education in the national languages of Sinhala, Tamil, and English. Some private schools with local curriculums may offer education solely in English.

Examples of well-known private schools offering local curriculums include S. Thomas' College, St. Joseph's College, St. Peter's College and Trinity College, Kandy. Notable girls' schools with local curriculums include Ladies' College, Colombo, Bishop's College, Colombo, and Hillwood College, Kandy. These schools prepare students for national examinations and focus on cultural values and local traditions.

Local private schools do not offer international qualifications such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) or Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) but continue to be popular among families seeking traditional education.

Private Schools with International Curriculum

Private schools in Sri Lanka offering international curriculums are known as "international schools." These schools provide education based on internationally recognized curriculums such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) or Cambridge International Examinations (CIE).

Prominent international schools in Sri Lanka include Colombo International School, Gateway College, Elizabeth Moir School, and Lyceum International School. These schools aim to prepare students for international higher education and typically feature a diverse student body. The curriculums are designed to be comprehensive, covering a wide range of subjects, including foreign languages, arts, and humanities. Teachers at these schools are trained to deliver international curriculums and provide students with a global perspective.

Semi-government Schools

Semi-government schools in Sri Lanka are partially funded by the government and partially by private means. These schools have more autonomy compared to government schools, allowing for independent decision-making and management.

Semi-government schools are considered a compromise between government and private schools, offering a blend of quality education and affordability. They often emphasize both academic excellence and cultural values.