Grade Placement

Student grade placement is determined under the guidelines set forth by the Ministry of Education.

In general, two systems exist. There is a British curriculum system and an American curriculum system. When making a decision for your child, please note that there are several differences in the two systems. It is important to learn about both systems before making a commitment as transferring between the systems can be challenging.

The following information may help to begin your study of the two systems. The American system is divided into three stages: elementary, middle and high school. The British system is divided into four stages: Stage 1, Stage 2, Stage 3, and Stage 4. The sixth stage is optional for college preparation in the British system. In the American system, high schools have required coursework to graduate. In the British system, there is required coursework as well as GSCF subject exams and A Levels. Students in both the American and British have the option to take International Baccalaureate (IB) courses if offered. Students in the American system may also take Advanced Placement (AP) courses. Students in the American system take the SAT or ACT for college entrance. Students in the American system may follow the Common Core Standards while students in the British Curriculum for national standards.

Grade levels may be confusing when examining the two systems. Students who start school in the American system are kindergarten students. Students who start school in the British system are Year 1 students. Thus, as students move forward, the "numbering" of grade levels is always different by one. For example, a students in Grade 8 in the American system is a Year 9 student in the British system. Parents should no that this is not a demotion or failure - simply a difference in the numbering systems.

Finally, please see below for the Ministry of Education table which describes grade placement: