1. Does your government have a dedicated cabinet-level ministry/department of education? If so, when was it formed and what is its mission?Education in Biaten is run by the Ministry of Education. The Ministry of Education was established in 1886 by the conservative Hayden-Jacobs Government in order to oversee the new system of state education, which at the time only required 1 penny per week, before it was lowered to 1 penny per month in 1891, then it was made completely free by the People's Act 1922, passed by the first Social Democratic government. The Ministry of Education’s mission is to oversee the management of education nationwide and setting education policy.
2. How does your nation's government involve itself in public education, if at all? What level of independence do subnational administrations have with regards to curriculum, financing, administration, and so on?The Ministry of Education sets out a basic curriculum that all schools, public or private, must teach and examine, such as Leocaean, English, Mathematics and Science. However, there is room for flexibility at the local level. Individual schools have, to a degree, freedom to develop their own teaching methods, choose textbooks and design educational programs.
Biatenian education is financed by local government, regional government and national government. Each school must receive at least 1,600 Thalers ($1,900) per student (1,000 Thalers from the national government, 500 Thalers from the regional government and 100 Thalers from the local government). Individual schools are to allocate this funding as they see fit, although regional governments often set mandatory minimums on certain subjects.
The Ministry of Education sets regulations and guidelines for school administration, including matters related to school governance, teacher qualifications and accountability. Each school is overseen by an 11-member Board of Governors, consisting of: the headteacher, 2 members elected by parents, 2 members elected by teachers, 2 members elected by local government, 2 appointed by regional government and 2 appointed by national government (Ministry of Education). Headteachers, or Chancellors for Universities, are elected by the Board of Governors. Headteachers set the school budget with the approval of the Board of Governors.
3. What topics are taught in your nations schools - that you the player think aren't taught elsewhere - but really should be? - special thanks to Great Altera for this particular question.Self Defence: Secondary schools in Leocaea and Auvia are required to teach at least 1 year of self-defence to students.
Politics: GCE (General Certificate of Education) students aged 14-16, as well as ACE (Advanced Certificate of Education) students aged 16-18 may take politics as a subject.
4. How many years of schooling are citizens of your nation broadly expected to receive? How many years of schooling do they actually receive on average?Every Biatenian is required to attend primary school between the age of 5 and 11, secondary school between 11 and 16, and further education between 16 and 18. Biatenians can also attend free University for 3-4 years after leaving compulsory education. In total, Biatenians are expected to receive 16 years of education. The average Biatenian receives 14 years of education.
5. What are the most prestigious schools (Primary, Secondary, or Tertiary) in your nation? How well regarded is the quality of their education?Biaten has several prestigious schools that attract talented students and teachers. Here’s a list of some of a few of the most prestigious and well-known schools and universities in Biaten:
- The University of Madame Blue (UMB) – Prestigious university in the North of Hachen, originally established by 18th century wealthy heiress and philanthropist Lady Adelaide Blue, commonly referred to as Madame Blue. UMB is the largest university in Biaten and one of the oldest universities in Gael. It offers a wide range of academic disciplines and is recognized for its research and educational excellence across various fields.
- University of Hachen (UoH) – Another prestigious university in Biaten, known for its excellence in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
- Bardham University (BU) – A research university specialising in STEM fields. It consistently ranks among the top universities nationally and is highly regarded for its cutting-edge research and innovative teaching methods.
- Riverview Secondary School – A prestigious secondary school located in Lion City. It provides a diverse and comprehensive curriculum, emphasising academics, arts and sports.
- Meadows Institute – A private school that provides both primary and secondary education, and one of the few remaining private schools in Gepripris. It’s recognised for its rigorous academic program, multilingualism and emphasis on art and culture.
6. What is the public's perception of academia in your nation? Do they believe their nation's schools are equipping the next generation properly?The public perception of education in Biaten is generally positive. The Biatenian people value education and recognise the importance of a well-equipped and knowledgeable next generation. There are, however, ongoing debates and discussions about certain aspects, such as discussions on whether or not exams should be kept or scrapped for assessments, as well as whether or not the secondary school age should be raised to 12.