Why Support a Private School?
Unlike in Europe, North America, South America, and Australia, attending a private school in Tanzania is not considered a luxury. Rather, it is often a necessity. The conditions under which many children learn in state schools are extremely challenging. It is not uncommon to find more than one hundred students in a single classroom. Only about 50% of them pass the final primary school examinations — even though passing the seventh-grade exam is required for admission to secondary school.
For this reason, many parents try to enroll their children in a private school, especially in an English Medium School. They often spend a large portion of their income to make this possible — and sometimes even that is not enough.
Our goal is to relieve families of this financial burden and provide as many children as possible with access to quality education and better future opportunities.
What Is an English Medium School?
English Medium Schools are private primary schools in Tanzania where instruction is conducted in English (except for Swahili lessons). These schools are typically characterized by smaller class sizes — usually up to 40 students — which allows for better individual attention.
Many private schools choose English as the language of instruction because English is the official language used in all Tanzanian secondary schools. When students transition to secondary school, this gives them a significant advantage over classmates who previously studied in Swahili-medium schools and may struggle to follow lessons in English.
What Do Pre-School and Primary School Mean in Tanzania?
In Tanzania, many children attend pre-school instead of daycare, mainly for cost reasons. Pre-school usually begins at the age of three, although children can start earlier.
During their three years in pre-school, children learn basic reading and writing skills, which are generally required before entering primary school.
Primary school lasts until seventh grade and concludes with national examinations.
What Comes Next?
After completing primary school (Grade 7), students must pass their final exams to qualify for secondary school.
Secondary school lasts four years. After that, some students continue to advanced secondary education (high school) or attend college before qualifying for university two years later.
Students who do not continue to higher education often pursue vocational training if their families can afford it. Many others become self-employed — working as farmers, small business owners, or in public transport.
What Do I Receive as a Sponsor?
A sponsorship is a voluntary donation that supports a child in Arusha and the surrounding area in receiving a comprehensive education and improving their chances of securing stable and fairly paid employment in the future.
As we are a Tanzania-based organization and not registered in Germany (due to high administrative costs), donations are unfortunately not tax-deductible.
However, as a sponsor, you will receive regular updates once or twice a year via email. These letters may come from us or from your sponsored child. We aim to give you insight into Tanzanian culture and the daily life of the children. Letters are usually written in English, but translations can be provided upon request. You are also welcome to send replies to your sponsored child.
What Will Change Through My Donation?
By sponsoring a child and covering school fees, you enable them to attend our school and gain access to higher education.
For boarding students, your sponsorship also guarantees daily meals and accommodation.
Your support has a direct and lasting impact on the future of your sponsored child. You will receive regular updates about their progress, and you are welcome to visit the school in Tanzania if you are ever in the area.
How Can I Be Sure My Donation Is Used Properly?
We are a registered pre- and primary school in Tanzania.
- Registration Number: 135-690-074
- (Taxpayer Identification Number – Tanzania Revenue Authority)
- Location: Magadrisho Street, USA-River
- Postal Address: P.O. Box 197, USA-River
You are welcome to follow our activities on our social media channels. Sponsors and volunteers are also welcome to visit us in person.
You may contact us at any time by email or telephone (please note that international calls may incur charges).
How Does a Sponsorship Work?
To become a sponsor, simply complete the form on our “Sponsorship” page.
You may:
- Choose a specific child by name
- Select multiple children
- Or indicate the number of children you wish to sponsor
We will then contact you for confirmation.
If you choose a partial sponsorship, we will notify you once we have found sponsors to cover the remaining amount.
The school year in Tanzania begins in January. If possible, please transfer your donation before January 1st. Setting up a standing order is recommended.
The goal of sponsorship is to support a child for several years. However, you may end your sponsorship at any time by contacting us. If your sponsored child completes primary school (after seventh grade), we will inform you. You may then choose to end the sponsorship or support another child.
Why Do Different Students Require Different Amounts?
Parents already contribute a significant portion of their income toward school fees, including food, transport, and materials. However, in some cases this is not enough.
The aim of our sponsorship program is to cover the financial gap between what parents can afford and the total school fees.
Additionally, some students have special needs — such as health insurance or medical support — which require additional funding.
Who Is My Contact Person?
Your primary contact at our school is:
School Manager
Phone: +255 754 697 887
Email: info@bethlehemstar.ac.tz