Education is the priority and foundation for the development of Serbia. The Serbian government aims to provide quality education accessible to all and is committed to addressing the challenges related to preparing young people for future professions. Young individuals are encouraged to think critically and analytically, the education process is being modernised, and Serbia is fostering a knowledge-based society where people, their ideas, and innovations drive progress.
Who is the preschool education intended for?
It is intended for children of preschool age, from 6 months to the beginning of primary school.
Where is it carried out?
It is organised in preschool institutions which provide food, care, preventive health and social protection of children, and it can also be exceptionally done at school.
Who is the founder of preschool institutions?
Founders may include: The Republic of Serbia, autonomous province, local self-government unit and another individual or legal entity.
Who enrols children in the preschool institution?
Children are enrolled by their parents or other legal representative of the child. During enrolment in public preschool institutions, the priority is given to children from sensitive social groups (e.g. Romani, beneficiaries of social assistance, children with developmental and other disabilities and children from socially unstimulating environments).
Children can also be enrolled in verified private preschool institutions.
How long do programmes last?
Preschool education programmes include:
- All day - from 9 to 12 hours a day;
- Half-day - preparatory preschool programme - 4 hours a day;
- Half-day - up to 6 hours a day;
- Half-day - up to 6 hours a day, up to three times a week;
- Multi-day period - longer than 24 hours.
What are the main objectives of preschool education?
The main goals of preschool education are to support the comprehensive development and welfare of the preschool child, the educational function of the family, further education and inclusion in the community, development of the potential of the child as a prerequisite for further development of the society and its progress.
Who is the preparatory preschool programme intended for?
The preparatory preschool programme is intended for children who are one year away from starting school. Since school year 2006/2007, it is compulsory. It lasts 4 hours a day for at least 9 months.