Pre-school education in Timor-Leste serves children aged 3 to 5 years, laying the foundations for lifelong learning before entry into basic education at age six.
Goals of Pre-School Education
- Support each child’s social, emotional, physical and cognitive development
- Introduce foundational concepts in language, early numeracy and motor skills through play-based learning
- Prepare children for a successful transition into Grade 1 of basic education
- Engage parents and communities as partners in early learning
Expanding Access and Quality
Expanding early childhood education is a priority of the National Education Strategic Plan 2011–2030. The Ministry works with municipalities and development partners to build and equip pre-schools, train educators and develop the pre-school curriculum.
A landmark investment was the HANDS programme (Halimar, Aprende no Deskobre, Susesu , “Play, Learn, Discover, Succeed”), developed with the Government of New Zealand from 2015 to 2020. HANDS supported more than 320 pre-schools with learning materials and furniture, trained teachers, and designed and built 150 pre-school playgrounds across the country.
More recently, the Government has partnered with KOICA and UNICEF to expand early childhood education in Baucau and Bobonaro, and continues to promote parenting education so families can support children’s learning at home.
Enrolling a Child
Children aged 3 to 5 may be enrolled at public and accredited private pre-schools. Enrolment periods follow the national school calendar; families should contact their nearest pre-school or municipal education directorate for details. See also School Admissions.