Schools in Latvia (7)

Published Jan 03, 2024

Welcome to a detailed exploration of schools in Latvia! This interactive map provides a comprehensive overview of school locations across the country, offering valuable insights into the diverse educational landscape of Latvia. Whether you're seeking primary, secondary, or higher education institutions, this map will guide you through the geographical distribution of schools, aiding in your quest for educational opportunities in Latvia.

Education in Latvia - Quick Introduction

Education in Latvia is both free and mandatory, spanning two years of preschool education typically starting at five years old and an additional nine years of primary education, generally until the ages of 15 or 16. The gross primary enrollment rate in 1996 was 95.8%, with a net primary enrollment rate of 89.5%. However, there was a notable increase in the number of children not attending primary school from 2001 onwards, especially in rural areas where several schools have been shuttered.

The transition of minority schools to a bilingual education system (60% in Latvian and 40% in the minority language) post-2004 triggered protests in 2003–2004, drawing opposition from groups like the Headquarters for the Protection of Russian Schools and Association in Support of Russian Language Schools. In 2010, UNESCO reported that 4,720 Latvian students were pursuing tertiary education abroad, primarily in the UK, Russia, and Germany, while 1,760 students from other countries were studying in tertiary institutions within Latvia, largely from Russia, Ukraine, and Lithuania.

Latvia's Education system

Latvia's education system spans pre-school, basic, secondary, and higher education. It encompasses 12 years, beginning with compulsory 9-year basic education followed by 3 years of secondary education.

Additionally, pre-school education starting at ages 5-6 is mandatory in Latvia. Basic education includes general and vocational tracks, while secondary education includes general, vocational, and vocational secondary education. Higher education offers academic and professional study programs.

Latvia's education system prioritizes quality and lifelong learning to foster adaptability and responsible citizenship. The system promotes inclusivity for ethnic minorities and special needs students, achieving equitable learning opportunities. Internationally, Latvian students excel in primary and lower-secondary education in reading, math, and science. However, while they display fewer deficiencies, the proportion of top-performing students remains lower than the OECD average.

Latvia has increased its education spending but aims to enhance teacher salaries to competitive levels. Ongoing reforms target competence-based education, adult lifelong learning, and vocational training. The system boasts a robust tradition of hobby education and a well-developed ethnic minority education model. Additionally, vocational education in sports, art, and music is integrated with primary and secondary education, forming Latvia's cultural education system.

Some of the schools in Latvia

International School of Riga

The International School of Riga (ISR; Rīgas Starptautiskā skola in Latvian) is a private international school located in Riga, Latvia. It operates as a non-profit, non-denominational institution and hosts approximately 300 students representing 47 nationalities. Established in 1995, the school is housed in a building constructed in 1912 by architect Reinhold Georg Schmaeling.
ISR offers a comprehensive educational program catering to children aged 2 to 18 (Preschool – Grade 12) in English. The curriculum includes preschool, primary, middle, and high school levels. The school's academic structure involves the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) from Preschool to Grade 5, the International (Read More)

Riga State Gymnasium No.1

The oldest school in the Baltic states, offers secondary education (grades 7 to 12). The school traces its origins to school of Riga Cathedral, which was founded in 1211, a decade after the foundation of Riga itself. The gymnasium is known for its strong programs in the natural sciences, mathematics and computer science. Its admissions rate, with as many as nine candidates competing for each position, is one of the lowest in the country. Riga State Gymnasium No.1 is consistently ranked first among the schools in Latvia. (Read More)

Ventspils Gymnasium No.1

Ventspils State Gymnasium No.1 (Ventspils Valsts 1. ģimnāzija in Latvian) is a secondary school situated in Ventspils, Latvia.
History of Ventspils Gymnasium No.1:
Established on December 9, 1918, Ventspils Gymnasium No.1 holds the distinction of being the inaugural secondary school established in independent Latvia. Throughout its existence, the school underwent numerous name changes, often attributed to shifts in the country's governance. For instance, during Latvia's time as part of the USSR, it was named after Janis Fabricius, a Red Army military commander. In 1996, it attained the status of a Gymnasium, signifying its provision of advanced secondary education. Since 2004, (Read More)

Pumpuru Vidusskola - Pumpuri Secondary School

Pumpuri Secondary School, situated at Kronvalda Street 8, has held this location since 1933/1934. The construction of the building was finalized in 1934, boasting three floors with an elegant assembly hall. Over the years, it underwent name changes, culminating in its current title since 1991. The school, previously known by various names, now stands as Pumpuri Secondary School. In 2009, after reconstruction, the historical building reopened. It achieved the 26th rank among Latvian secondary schools in the 2008/09 academic year. Notably, in 2010, Irēna Kausiniece, the school's director, received the prestigious state honor, 'Order of Three Stars.' Following renovations, the school had a (Read More)

Janis Rozentāls Art High School

The Janis Rozentāls Art School (Jaņa Rozentāla Mākslas skola, JRMS), a Latvian institution, focuses on teaching academic arts encompassing drawing, painting, composition, graphics, and design. Initially established in 1895 by the Latvian Painters Society as a painter's school, it underwent several name changes over the years. It transformed into the Latvian Painters Crafts Promotion and Relief Society Vocational School in 1928, followed by iterations as the Riga Secondary School of Art in 1944, the Janis Rozentāls Art High School in 1946, and the Janis Rozentāls Art College in 1998. Subsequently, on March 18, 2002, it became the Janis Rozentāls Riga Art High School. (Read More)

Quick Facts about Schools in Latvia

1 - Education Structure: Latvia follows a three-tiered education system comprising primary, secondary, and higher education levels.

2 - Bilingual Instruction: Many schools in Latvia offer bilingual education, teaching in both Latvian and minority languages like Russian.

3 - Specialized Schools: Latvia has specialized educational institutions, including schools focusing on arts, sports, and sciences, catering to diverse student interests.

4 - Extended Schooling Hours: School days in Latvia often exceed 5-6 hours, and students may have longer school years than in some other countries.

5 - Education Reforms: Latvia has implemented educational reforms in recent years, emphasizing modernization, teacher training, and curriculum development to align with European standards.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the quality of the education system of Latvia?

Given that Latvia ranks 16th on the United Nations Human Development Index (HDI) with a score of 0.872 in 2022, we can assess that the quality of the education system in Latvia is relatively high. The Education Index, derived from the knowledge component of the HDI, takes into account expected and actual years of schooling, as well as educational achievements across various levels. With a score closer to 1 indicating better performance, Latvia's position at 16th place with a score of 0.872 signifies a commendable standard in its education system. For more information check this link.

What is the PISA score of Latvia?

The PISA score of Latvia in 2022 across different subjects are as follows:

• Overall PISA Score: 484 (#23)
• PISA Math Score: 483 (#21)
• PISA Science Score: 494 (#20)
• PISA Reading Score: 475 (#26)

The PISA benchmark refers to the Program for International Student Assessment, conducted triennially by the OECD, evaluating the abilities of 15-year-olds in reading, mathematics, and science. This benchmark serves as a global standard to assess and compare educational systems worldwide based on students' performance in these key subjects. The rankings and scores provided indicate where Latvia stands in comparison to other participating countries in terms of these educational competencies. For more information and rankings regarding the PISA benchmark around the world, please check this link.

Which city in Latvia hosts the largest university with a variety of English-taught programs?

The largest university in Latvia offering numerous English-taught courses, including medicine and dentistry, is the University of Latvia, located in Riga, the country's capital.

What is the significance of Riga Stradins University in Latvia, especially regarding international students?

Riga Stradins University has the highest proportion of international students in Latvia, constituting 25% of the total student body, representing around 50 different countries.

What is the cost of living like for students in Latvia, particularly in Riga and other cities?

The cost of living in Riga is relatively low compared to other European capital cities, while in other major Latvian cities, it tends to be even more affordable for students.

Which universities in Latvia are recognized for their focus on business education and related fields?

Baltic International Academy, BA School of Business and Finance, Riga Business School at Riga Technical University, and Stockholm School of Economics in Riga are known for their emphasis on business education.

<33>What are some distinctive features of student life in Riga, the capital city of Latvia?

Riga offers a vibrant nightlife, cultural events, and entertainment options. The city was the European Capital of Culture in 2014, hosting numerous cultural events. Moreover, dining out is relatively economical compared to other European cities.

Which institution has a specialized focus on music education?

Jāzeps Vītols Latvian Academy of Music is a renowned institution in Latvia, specializing in music education.

How does the cost of living in Riga compare to other European capital cities for students?

Riga boasts a notably low cost of living, particularly when compared to other European capitals. Additionally, other major cities in Latvia offer even more affordable living expenses for students.

Map of Schools in Latvia

Creating an interactive map of schools in Latvia is a fantastic initiative to encapsulate the educational landscape of the country. This map aims to provide an immersive experience through a diverse range of information related to schools, including historical significance, key individuals associated with these institutions, pertinent dates, keywords linked to education, and the locations of schools across various cities and towns.

Contributions in the form of historical information, images, noteworthy events, and anecdotes associated with specific schools can immensely enrich this map. By collating historical data about the founding dates of schools, significant events in their histories, and notable alumni or educators, users can explore the heritage and development of educational institutions in Latvia.

Moreover, integrating keywords that encapsulate various aspects of schooling – like curriculum, extracurricular activities, academic achievements, and cultural impact – can offer a comprehensive understanding of each school's identity.

Including geographical details and categorizing schools by cities and towns would allow users to explore the educational landscape across Latvia's different regions. This spatial organization enables users to navigate and understand the distribution of educational resources throughout the country.

By fostering a collaborative environment where individuals can contribute their knowledge, historical insights, photographs, and any relevant information, this map can evolve into a comprehensive repository of Latvia's educational history and present-day school network. The aim is to create an engaging platform that celebrates the multifaceted nature of education in Latvia.