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Chiamaka Oscar
- November 6, 2024
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If you’re searching for a comprehensive guide on SHS in Ghana and their courses, you’ve come to the right place. Ghana boasts a diverse range of Senior High Schools, each offering unique programs, specialized courses, and various fee structures to cater to every student’s needs and academic aspirations.
In this article, we’ll delve into everything you need to know about SHS—from the top schools, their offered courses, and fee structures, to the necessary admission requirements. This guide will help you make an informed decision about which SHS suits your educational goals best.
SHS in Ghana
Senior High School in Ghana marks an important phase in the educational journey, following the completion of Junior High School (JHS). It serves as a stepping stone to tertiary education and a critical point where students begin to specialize in their areas of interest. SHS typically spans three years and is an opportunity for students to hone in on their skills, determine their career paths, and prepare for higher education through the West African Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (WASSCE).
Choosing the right SHS and their courses can significantly influence a student’s academic trajectory. Whether you want to pursue science, arts, business, or technical programs, there’s an SHS that fits your needs.
What Grade is SHS in Ghana?
In the Ghanaian education system, Senior High School (SHS) typically begins in Grade 10, also known as Form 1 in some schools. SHS lasts for three years (from Grade 10 to Grade 12). After completing the three years, students sit for the WASSCE (West African Senior Secondary Certificate Examination), which is a key requirement for gaining admission to universities or other higher institutions.
SHS Fees
The fees for SHS can vary widely, depending on the type of school (private or public), its location, and the level of facilities and services it offers. For example:
- Public SHS: The fees for public schools are generally more affordable. In schools like Achimota and Opoku Ware, students can expect to pay anywhere from GHS 500 to GHS 2,000 annually, depending on the level of facilities, whether they are boarders or day students, and the courses they pursue.
- Private SHS: Private institutions are often more expensive, with fees ranging from GHS 5,000 to GHS 20,000 per year, and in some prestigious schools like Lincoln Community School, fees can even rise to GHS 100,000 annually.
Boarding students generally incur additional costs for accommodation, food, and other services. Keep in mind that fees and scholarships vary each year, so it’s important to check with individual schools for up-to-date information.
SHS Requirements
To be admitted to an SHS in Ghana, students must meet the following requirements:
- JHS Certificate: You must have completed Junior High School (JHS) and obtained your JHS certificate.
- BECE Results: Students must pass the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) with a minimum grade of C6 in core subjects such as English and Mathematics to be eligible for SHS admission.
- Application Forms: After passing the BECE, students must apply to the SHS of their choice by completing an application form, submitting their BECE results, birth certificate, immunization records, and, in some cases, a letter of recommendation.
- Selection: Based on your BECE results and school preferences, the Ministry of Education allocates students to their respective schools. Some schools also have entrance exams, especially private institutions.
See: SHS Courses and Their Career Job Opportunities in Ghana
List of SHS in Ghana and Their Courses
Here’s a breakdown of some of the top SHS and the wide array of courses they offer:
1. Our Lady of Grace Senior High School (OLAG)
- General Arts: Government, History, French, Economics, Geography, Literature, CRS, Business Studies.
- Visual Arts: Graphic Design, Sculpture, Arts and Design, Painting.
- Science: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Elective Maths.
- Business: Accounting, Business Management, Economics, Financial Accounting.
2. Achimota Senior High School
- General Arts: History, Economics, Government, Literature, Geography.
- General Science: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Maths, ICT.
- Visual Arts: Graphic Design, Textiles, Ceramics, Sculpture.
- Business: Accounting, Business Management, Economics.
3. St. Andrews Senior High School
- General Arts: French, Literature, History, Economics.
- Business: Accounting, Business Management, Economics.
- Science: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Maths.
- Visual Arts: Graphic Design, Textiles.
4. Opoku Ware Senior High School (OWASS)
- General Arts: Economics, Government, Literature, French.
- Science: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Elective Maths.
- Business: Accounting, Business Management, Economics.
5. Holy Child Senior High School
- General Arts: History, Government, French, Religious Studies.
- Science: Physics, Chemistry, Biology.
- Business: Accounting, Business Management.
- Visual Arts: Sculpture, Textile, Ceramics.
6. Adisadel College (Adisco)
- General Arts: History, Geography, Literature, Economics.
- Business: Accounting, Business Management, Economics.
- Science: Physics, Chemistry, Biology.
- Visual Arts: Graphic Design, Sculpture.
Top Private SHS in Ghana
Some of the top private SHS in Ghana include:
- Saint Andrews Senior High School
- Tema International School
- Presbyterian Boys’ Secondary School (PRESEC)
- Ideal College
- Alpha Beta Christian College
These private schools tend to offer specialized programs, smaller class sizes, and more advanced facilities.
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Public SHS in Ghana
The public SHS are well-regarded for providing quality education at more affordable rates. Notable public schools include:
- Achimota School
- Mfantsipim School
- Presbyterian Boys’ Secondary School
- Opoku Ware Senior High School
- St. Thomas Aquinas
Single-sex SHS in Ghana
Ghana also has a number of excellent single-sex SHS, including:
- Girls: Wesley Girls’ High School, Holy Child School, St. Mary’s Senior High School.
- Boys: St. Augustine’s College, Adisadel College, Bishop Herman College.
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Which SHS is Best in Science in Ghana?
Some of the top-performing science SHS in Ghana include PRESEC (Legon), Prempeh College, and Adisadel College. These schools consistently produce top WASSCE results in the science disciplines.
What Are the Best Technical Senior High Schools in Ghana?
If you’re interested in technical studies, Ghana boasts several great technical SHS such as:
- Abetifi Technical Institute
- Comboni Technical Vocational Institute
- Krobea Asante Vocational and Technical Institute
What is the Most Expensive Senior High School in Ghana?
The most expensive SHS in Ghana is Lincoln Community School, with fees exceeding GHS 100,000 per year, followed by Ghana International School and Ghana International College.
What is the Oldest SHS School in Ghana?
Mfantsipim School is the oldest SHS in Ghana, founded in 1876.
How Many Years Does it Take to Complete SHS in Ghana?
It typically takes three years to complete SHS in Ghana. However, some schools follow a double-track system, which may extend the duration to four years.
FAQs
- How many SHS are in Ghana?
Over 981 SHS in Ghana. - What is the first SHS in Ghana?
Mfantsipim School, founded in 1876, is the first SHS in Ghana. - Which SHS is the most competitive in Ghana?
PRESEC, Legon, is widely regarded as one of the most competitive SHS in Ghana.
Conclusion
Ghana’s Senior High Schools (SHS) provide an excellent opportunity for students to further their education and specialize in their chosen fields. Whether you’re interested in science, arts, business, or technical studies, there’s a wide array of options to choose from. By considering the various schools, their offered courses, fees, and requirements, you can make a well-informed choice about the best school for your future.
