K-12 Curriculum is the DepEd-mandated curriculum framework for Philippine basic education.
Structure:
- Kindergarten (1 year)
- Elementary (Grades 1-6) — core subjects (Math, Science, English, Filipino, Araling Panlipunan, MAPEH)
- Junior High School (Grades 7-10) — broader academics, enhanced math + science
- Senior High School (Grades 11-12) — strand specialisation (STEM, HUMSS, ABM, GAS, A&D, Sports, TVL)
Reform context:
- K-12 introduced 2013 (RA 10533)
- Replaced 10-year structure (6 elementary + 4 secondary)
- Aligned with international standards (most countries use 12-13 year systems)
What it means for you (parents):
- College starts at age 18-19 now (was 16-17 pre-K-12)
- SHS strand choice matters for college admission
- Many programmes accept any strand (with bridging courses)
- Some programmes require specific strand (STEM for engineering/medicine)