Education System in Greece: A Guide for Israeli Families Moving Here
Education in Greece is centralized and governed by the Ministry of Education. Here is a practical overview for Israeli families planning a long-term move.
- Public education in Greece is centralized and tuition-free across standard grade levels.
- School attendance is mandatory starting from preschool at age four through lower secondary school at age fifteen.
- The use of mobile phones and smartwatches is strictly forbidden on school premises by law.
For Israeli families relocating to Greece, understanding the structured educational stages from kindergarten through high school is essential. It is recommended to contact local education authorities well in advance, prepare official translations of previous academic records, and adhere strictly to the annual registration windows.
The Public Education Structure
Education in Greece is governed centrally by the Ministry of Education, Religious Affairs, and Sports. The Ministry oversees public schools, establishes the national curriculum, appoints teaching staff, coordinates university entrance exams, and supplies textbooks free of charge to students on approved lists.
Key Stages of Formal Education
Formal schooling is divided into distinct stages:
- Preschool: Compulsory for two years starting at age four, covering pre-kindergarten and kindergarten.
- Primary and Lower Secondary: Six years of compulsory primary school starting at age six, followed by three years of compulsory lower secondary school (Gymnasium) until age fifteen.
- Upper Secondary: A non-compulsory three-year Lyceum stage for students aged fifteen to eighteen, preparing them for higher education.
School Regulations and Supplementary Classes
Greek law strictly prohibits students from using mobile phones, smartwatches, or any recording devices while on school premises. Devices must be switched off or silenced and kept inside bags throughout the school day.
Additionally, a large number of students attend private afternoon tutoring centres known as "frontistiria" to prepare for nationwide higher education examinations or to study foreign languages.
