The education system in China is highly competitive and the country has worked hard to build its reputation for excellence. The country’s primary school system comprises three years of kindergarten, six years of primary school, and three years of junior and senior middle school. The educational system in China has become a model of excellence that is envied across the world. In China, math and science are the key subjects in school, with children expected to excel in these subjects.
The culture of narrative in China is unparalleled in the world. The 25 dynastic histories preserve a unique record dating back to the unknown Xia dynasty to the Qing (1644-1911/12 ce). These sprawling historical romances have become an important part of educated reading ever since the spread of printing in the eleventh and twelfth centuries. As a result, China has one of the most prolific literary traditions in the world.
While the education system in China has been a significant factor in forming Chinese society, it is still a sensitive barometer of larger political priorities and trends. The shift to rapid economic development in China in the 1980s affected the country’s educational system. The government’s educational budgets were squeezed in favor of other pressing needs. Moreover, the cultural revolution and Great Leap Forward had adverse effects on Chinese society. However, the country’s educational system has continued to evolve over the years.
