Australian pre-university program SACE International has joined in a “collaborative partnership” with Sri Lankan school group, Gateway College.
In what the two institutions describe as a “first for Sri Lanka and South Asia”, the schools will be offering the Australian Secondary Certificate of Education through SACE International.
“SACE International and Gateway College have a shared ambition to provide an education for students that sets them up for success through high achievement and holistic development for every student,” said SACE board chief executive Martin Westwell.
“We provide an innovative, dynamic and flexible curriculum that develops the skills, knowledge and capabilities to thrive at university and life,” he added.
The “historic” agreement was signed earlier this month, joining schools across China, Malaysia, Vietnam, Vanuatu and New Caledonia in offering the SACE qualification.
“The SACE is not just another universally accepted qualification but a program that takes a more divergent approach, which is more flexible and student-centred where continuous assessments play a key role,” said Gateway College chairman Harsha Alles.
“At a time when educators in Sri Lanka and the world over are re-designing strategies to prepare students for the continually changing and highly demanding global environment, the Gateway Colleges are pleased to introduce the Australian system of high school education as an alternative to the UK International General Certificate of Secondary Education and A levels route,” she continued.
The Australian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, David Holly, acknowledged that the “strong education linkages” between Australia and Sri Lanka now stretch to secondary education opportunities.
“[It allows] access to universities all around the world too, including the UK, the US and Canada”
Gaining an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank from the SACE, he said, builds a “solid foundation and direct pathway” for a student to go to Australian higher education.
“[It allows] access to universities all around the world too, including the UK, the US and Canada,” he added.
A consultant at Gateway college also noted that the partnership came in a special year for the group.
“Continuous innovative learning ensures a true education. At a time when we celebrate our 25 year anniversary, we welcome this opportunity to experience the magic of learning through experience, creativity and discovery,” said Nirmali Wickremesinghe.
