Primary School

Primary school starts out with one year of pre-primary education called baby class. This is much like kindergarten. From there students go through Class 1-7.

In Tanzania both public and private exit. Private schools are typically taught in English. Public schools are referred to as government schools, which are taught in Kiswahili. Government schools are free to students to attend, but students are required to purchase uniforms, books, school supplies, etc., which makes attending school cost prohibitive for many children. TFFT Scholars attend schools known for academic excellence and receive the highest quality education.

Exams and continuing to secondary school

In Class 4 students must pass a national exam to continue to Class 5. Results from the Class 7 National Exam determine where students are accepted for secondary school. This is where TFFT’s individualized approach becomes even more personal. Each scholar’s academic performance, test score, and personal interests determine which secondary school is the best fit for enrollment. Therefore, while the majority of the TFFT Scholars attend the same primary school, at the secondary level it becomes more differentiated.

In Tanzania, all students must pay tuition to attend secondary school, even for government school. Passing the exam and affording tuition are both barriers for the majority of students hoping to receive secondary (high school) education. Any student (regardless of exam scores) can attend private secondary school if they are able to pay. This, however, is only an option for students from middle-to-high income families.

Only 25% of all Tanzanian youth enroll in secondary (high school).

In contrast, 100% of TFFT Scholars enroll in secondary school.

Secondary School (O-Levels & A-Levels)

Secondary school is broken down into O-Levels and A-Levels. O-Levels are four years, From 1-4. During O-Levels students narrow their focus and choose to take a combination of subjects. Once in Form 4, students in both private and government schools are required to take a national exam that determines if a student can continue on to A-Levels, which is two years and consists of Form 5 and Form 6. To get into an A-Level program, you need passing exam grades in at least three subjects.

Other options after Form 4

After Form 4 graduation TFFT Scholars who do not qualify for A-Levels still have two remaining years of TFFT’s support. Scholars explore different certificate or diploma course options. The path for each scholar varies greatly and is specific to each scholar’s individual strengths, interests, and career aspirations.