Education

In general, the Ghanaian public school system follows the British system. It is also very test-oriented, relying to a large extent on rote learning. The schools that are usually viewed as meeting European or American standards follow below. With the exception of the Dutch extracurricular school, none has any restrictions as to nationality or religion. Be aware that demand for these schools is very high; it is not uncommon to hear that parents have tried to place their children on waiting lists before they were even born! Some schools set aside places with higher tuition and enrolment fees for those who come to Ghana with less advance warning.

Transportation to and from the schools is not usually provided, nor are prepared lunches. When previewing schools, parents should ask about the school's disciplinary methods; corporal punishment, or "caning", is not uncommon. Parents should also check the grounds for safety, assure that adequate toilet facilities exist, and ask about the school's educational philosophy.

Although many Ghanaian pre-schools call themselves "Montessori", they often have a very academic orientation, especially when compared to the American or European approach to Montessori preschool education. Some parents may homeschool their children, and we have included a few local contacts.

Most expatriates will probably send their children to colleges or universities in their home or base countries. Several key tertiary institutions have been included, as some may be options, either for full-time or part-time study. Additionally these institutions may provide options for work for spouses or partners.