Slovakia 9th Grade Curriculum (Lower Secondary Education) - Civic Education

Overview of Civic Education in Slovakia:

Civic education in Slovakia aims to develop students' social and civic competences, preparing them for active participation in a democratic society. These competences are integrated throughout compulsory schooling. There is a recognized need for strengthening civic education and adapting it to better meet the needs of students and society.

Structure of the Slovak Education System:

Slovakia has a free, compulsory education system for ten years, typically from ages 6 to 16. Compulsory education is divided into three stages:

• Primary School (Základná škola): Grades 1-4 (ISCED 1) and Grades 5-9 (ISCED 2)
• Lower Secondary Education: Typically continues within the single-structure primary school in grades 5-9.
• Upper Secondary Education (ISCED 3): Students typically transition to other secondary schools after 9th grade.

Curriculum Development:

The Slovak Ministry of Education, Science, Research and Sport is responsible for education policy and curriculum development. The national curriculum undergoes reforms to address the evolving educational needs of the 21st century, including critical thinking, digital skills, and other key competencies. State educational programs provide the basis for school educational programs, allowing for adaptation to specific regional conditions.