Grades are similar to the US with primary school going from 1st-5th grade, secondary school (middle school) going from 6th-9th grade, and high school going from 10th-12th grade. Students go to school for a similar amount of time as students in the US with 9 months of school and a 3 month summer break. Students also get 2-3 weeks off for the Tết holiday (lunar new year). Regardless of where students go to school, they all wear uniforms. They are different depending on the school, but the kids in my neighborhood usually wear long navy shorts, white button ups, and little red ties.
Below is a typical middle school schedule, but it will change slightly depending on the school. Because students get so much time for lunch, most will leave campus and go to cafes or convenience stores to eat lunch. In some primary schools, lunch is included in the school fees. Students get a long break for lunch and to take a nap, this is important, especially during the hottest part of the day!
Students take classes in a variety of subjects including math, science, biology, geography, history, art, Vietnamese, music, and English. There are several national standardized tests, especially at the high school level that students prepare for during the year. Students here learn a lot and school is a very important part of life in Vietnam!
