Preparing Students for University and the Future

At St. Joseph’s Private Language School – National Section, our high school program for Secondary 1, 2 and 3 is carefully designed to equip students with the academic skills, personal confidence, and critical thinking needed for success in university and beyond.

As of the 2024–2025 academic year, Egypt’s national high school system is undergoing major reforms aimed at reducing student stress, improving academic outcomes, and aligning with global educational standards. Our school is fully committed to supporting these changes while continuing to provide a well-rounded and forward-thinking education.

Highlights of the New Reformed System

1. Fewer Subjects for Less Stress

  • Students study fewer subjects, especially in the first year of high school, reducing workload and allowing deeper focus on each topic.

2. Integrated Science

  • Separate science subjects (Biology, Chemistry, Physics) are now combined into one Integrated Science course, providing a more connected and practical approach to science.

3. Streamlined Geography

  • Geography is now a specialized subject taught only in the Arts Stream starting in Secondary 2.

4. Specialized Streams

  • Starting in Secondary 2, students select a stream that matches their strengths and interests:
    • Science
    • Arts
    • Mathematics (optional, depending on future university goals)

5. More Flexibility with Exams

  • Students will have multiple chances to retake exams, often without high fees, reducing pressure and supporting success.

Key Curriculum Changes by Grade Level

  • Secondary 1:
    • 6 Core Subjects: Arabic, First Foreign Language, History, Math, Integrated Science, Philosophy & Logic
    • Pass/Fail Subjects: Religious Studies and Second Foreign Language

  • Secondary 2:
    • Students follow chosen streams with 6 subjects
    • Math is now one unified subject
    • Second Foreign Language remains pass/fail

  • Secondary 3:
    • Science Track: 5 graded subjects; Geology and Second Foreign Language are pass/fail
    • Literature Track: Psychology and Second Foreign Language are pass/fail, fewer graded subjects overall

Looking Ahead: The Egyptian Baccalaureate (Starting 2025–2026)

The Egyptian Baccalaureate will replace Thanaweya Amma, offering a more flexible and modern approach to secondary education:

  • Three-Year Program:
    • Year 1: Core subjects including Arabic, Math, Science, History, and Religious Studies
    • Years 2–3: Students choose one of four specialization tracks:
      • Medicine & Life Sciences
      • Engineering & Computer Science
      • Business
      • Literature & Art

  • Assessment Model:
    Continuous assessment across 3 years, with the option to retake exams to improve scores. First attempt is free; small fees apply for retakes.
  • Flexible Completion:
    Students have up to 4 years to complete the Baccalaureate, reducing academic pressure.
  • AI & Programming Integration:
    Artificial Intelligence and Coding will be introduced as core subjects in Secondary 1, preparing students for the future digital world.

At St. Joseph’s, we are fully committed to supporting students through this transition. Our dedicated team of educators ensures that students are not only academically prepared but also confident, adaptable, and ready to thrive in university and beyond.