Tuvalu Education System: An Overview with Focus on English and Year 4

Tuvalu's education system emphasizes both English and Tuvaluan languages. English is the primary language of instruction across all subjects, although the actual implementation may vary depending on individual teachers. Both English and Tuvaluan are taught from early primary years up to Form 7. The Tuvalu Language Policy guides the language implementation in education.

While specific details about the Year 4 English curriculum are not readily available, some resources offer insights into activities and learning materials related to Tuvaluan language and culture, which may be incorporated into English lessons, especially during Tuvalu Language Week (September 29th - October 5th). These resources include basic phrases, activities, and booklets designed for Years 1-4. Additional reading and writing activities related to Tuvalu are also available. A development of a new Year 1-4 English curriculum and syllabus with detailed teacher guides was underway in March 2023.

Primary education in Tuvalu is free and compulsory between the ages of 6 and 15. Each island has a primary school, and there are also three private primary schools in addition to the nine public ones. While the primary school completion rate is high (95%), a significant number of students do not transition to secondary education.

The Ministry of Education plays a central role in shaping the curriculum and assessment system, including the development and implementation of the Tuvalu National Curriculum Policy Framework (TNCPF). The Ministry also works on improving the curriculum and assessment system, enhancing Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), and addressing other challenges in the education sector.