Overview
Anguilla is a group of islands and cays in the Leeward Islands chain in the Caribbean Sea east of Puerto Rico. The population is 14,108 and the literacy rate is 95%.
The first inhabitants of Anguilla were Amerindians who arrived from South America. The first European settlers were British who arrived from St. Kitts in 1650. Most of the current citizens of Anguilla are descendants of slaves who were brought to the island in the 18th century. In the early 19th century, Anguilla was incorporated into St. Kitts and Nevis, but became an independent colony in 1969. In 1980, it became a British Overseas Territory that is led by a governor who is responsible to the British Crown.
Education
Education on Anguilla is overseen by their Education Department and is free and compulsory from ages 5 - 15.
Primary Education
There are 6 primary schools on Anguilla. Primary school is 7 years and begins at age 5. No credential is awarded upon completion of primary school.
Secondary Education
There is one secondary school on Anguilla. Secondary school is 5 years. Prior to the establishment of the Caribbean Examination Council (CXC) in 1972, at the end of secondary school (Form V), students were assessed using the General Certificate of Education Ordinary Level (GCE O-Level) which was administered by examination authorities in the United Kingdom. The CXC Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) replaced the GCE O-Level exam. Form VI is two years long and students have the choice of taking the CXC Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) or the GCE Advanced Level (GCE A-Level) exam upon completion.
Post-Secondary Education
There are no post-secondary institutions on Anguilla. Most students go on to the University of the West Indies for further education.