Education is of paramount importance to families in Singapore. As a result, it is vital to understand the education system and what it can offer. This article aims to explore the various educational options available in Singapore, with a particular focus on mainstream schools. It is designed for those who may be unfamiliar with the country or education system, especially families considering relocating to Singapore. Key questions include what types of education are available, how accessible they are, whether some are of better quality than others, or if this is even a consideration (C. (Lee) Chew, 2015).
To adequately address these questions, the different stages of education and types of school in Singapore will be explained. In particular, the discussion will focus on mainstream options, as they are the most relevant for the majority of families. Alternative types of education, such as special needs schools and home schooling, fall outside the scope of this essay. Furthermore, international schools will not be covered in detail, as they are a different category with their own unique characteristics and considerations (Worsham, 2016). Instead, a more succinct overview of international education options will be provided. The goal is to ensure readers understand what the Singaporean education model has to offer, and what considerations to bear in mind, as well as the relevant questions to ask, when choosing schools for their children.
Public Schools vs. Private Schools
The Singapore education system consists of public and private schools. Public schools receive government funding and are under government control, whereas private schools are funded and overseen by private organizations. Each institution type offers similar benefits and features but varies in their pros and cons due to different funding arrangements.
Public schools usually adopt a curriculum that closely follows national guidelines set by the Ministry of Education, while private schools have the freedom and flexibility to create their own curriculum. Private schools are often perceived as having a more diverse selection of subjects, and many foreign schools even provide an international curriculum. However, public schools also provide a range of subjects and programs that encompass sports and the arts, and many secondary public schools offer special programs in areas such as language and music.
For most Singaporean families, public schools are the most logical choice, as families are more likely to choose a public school if they have to decide between the two types. In recent years, foreign or expatriate families with school-age children have a choice between public and private schools. It is relatively rare for expatriates to send their children to public schools, as it is largely common to send children to international schools instead. This is because there is commonly thought to be a language barrier that prevents non-Chinese speakers from enrolling in public schools, as public primary schools usually use Mandarin as the medium of teaching (Worsham, 2016). Additionally, public schools are seen to be less desirable due to overcrowding. On the other hand, for Singaporean families wishing to take the private school route, the most common choice is to enroll children in a church school. Church schools usually adopt a curriculum closer to public schools but also offer an alternative religious education. Although private schools are seen as a viable option, they are nevertheless much less accessible than public schools, especially regarding affordability.
The major concern about the Singapore education system is still regarding the public schools’ admission policy, as many Singaporean families worry that their children would not be able to gain entry into a public school (Ghafoor Awan Asma Zia, 2015). This is because generally, the more desirable choices of primary public schools are perceived as providing a better and higher quality education. Such perceptions exist because public schools are seen to have a more able cohort of students and are therefore thought to have a more enriching and conducive learning environment. Families that find it difficult to achieve such desirable choices would be less confident about their children’s education and thus feel a need to take additional measures to raise the children’s chances of success. Concerns are also raised regarding public schools’ ability in meeting their children’s learning needs if they are considered to be a more unique case, especially with regard to learning difficulties. On the other hand, public secondary schools’ admission policy also raises equity concerns as it involves a high-stakes national examination that separates twelve-year-old school children into different educational streams according to their education goals and capabilities.
In addressing families’ choices between school types, there is a need to consider how school budget and governance issues impact the perceived accessibility and quality of education at different school types. Accessibility issues would consider how the choice of school type would be affected by a family’s socioeconomic status and also how the choice of school type affects a child’s educational trajectory in respect of schooling affordability. Quality issues would examine how perceptions of school type affect one’s choice between the two, and also how school type impacts a child’s education and developmental outcomes and experiences. In regards to public schools, admissions to public schools and concerns regarding in meeting children’s learning needs would also be considered. Lastly, it would also address the degree of parental involvement in their children’s education and how different schools perceive and approach parental involvement, and thus how this impacts the dynamics of school community.
Specialized Schools and Programs
Beyond standard education, Singaporean families have the option of schools/programs specialized in sports, arts, science, or other fields. There are institutions dedicated to students with specific talents. Schools specialized in sports educate students aged 10-16 years who excel in particular sports. These schools adopt the same curriculum as national schools but dedicate more time to the chosen sport. Within primary schools, only one sport can be pursued, but secondary schools allow dual/switch options for sports. A similar model exists for the arts; programs within national schools are for students who excel in music, dance, or drama. A curriculum designed by the National Arts Council provides opportunities to learn from specialists. Because sports/art schools are considered co-curricular activity, students in these schools must also study a common curriculum. However, tournaments/performances may clash with the academics, and accommodations must be requested.
Several specialised schools/programmes exist to cater to gifted/talented individuals in academic subjects. Most government schools provide a gifted education programme in English, maths, science, etc., for 7-12-year-olds. Students go through several tests to qualify for this programme, and once they pass, there is no backing out. The GEP stream continues to secondary education, though students may leave if they switch to specialized schools. The government hopes to nurture diverse talents through these programmes. Other than the GEP, high-scoring students may join secondary specialized schools for science or humanities. The alternative pathways lead to Junior Colleges/Polytechnics, thus shaping Singapore into a STEM hub. Various science/art institutes provide opportunities for students to work on research projects/art pieces to prepare a portfolio before considering admission in mid-secondary education. Admission to specialized schools/programmes is via competitive tests. As a result, students join tuition or training classes to prepare in advance, starting from primary. The former feels stressed due to the heavy curriculum and expectation to excel, while the latter sees a good balance and flexibility in choice of school. It is worth pondering the larger cultural implications of promoting specialization in education at a young age.
Nonetheless, specialized schools/programmes enrich the educational landscape in Singapore. Currently, there are 10 specialized schools, four with a sole focus on one discipline and the rest with dual specializations, including a standard curriculum. Moreover, eight specialised programmes exist within national schools, including an intriguing one for speed reading.
Choosing the Right School for Your Child
As child-rearing and educational choices may exert a long-lasting influence on a child’s development, opportunities, and outcomes, it is of utmost importance that parents feel empowered to select the right school for their child. Perhaps the most important step in this process is an understanding of the child to be schooled. Every child is a unique mix of needs, interests, and learning styles, and reflection on these factors is critical to ensuring the best fit with a given school and its particular approach to education. Is an emphasis on academics or character development more suited to the child’s priorities? Does the child prefer a structured environment or one where they may explore at their leisure? How important are co-curricular activities such as sports, the arts, or music? These are just a few of the questions families should consider when beginning their search (M Lim et al., 2021).
Beyond the broad characteristics of a school system, there are a number of more specific factors that families may wish to reflect upon in their decision-making process. At a very fundamental level, parents can examine what is taught. Each school approaches academic subjects—usually the core ten subjects—differently, with some schools offering a wider variety of subjects than others or introducing subjects at an earlier age. However, education is more than simply a transmission of knowledge; families may also wish to consider what a school values in terms of education. Some schools emphasize the need to develop discipline and a strong work ethic, while others aim to foster creativity and independent thought. The school’s culture—what it values or emphasizes beyond academics—should be taken into consideration. Similarly, schools may offer a range of extracurricular opportunities—sports, drama, music, academic clubs, or student leadership initiatives—group activities that facilitate learning outside designated classroom time and an important part of a holistic education.
Once a short-list of both schools and types of schools has been prepared, efforts should be made to visit these schools and collect as much information as possible. Getting a feel for the atmosphere of a school is extremely difficult without stepping inside the gate. Attending open houses where kids are present is an excellent opportunity for parents to watch how children interact with teachers, other adults, and each other, as this may shed light on the school’s culture and priorities. At these open houses, parents can also engage with faculty. Time spent forming relationships and building trust with the adults who will be primarily responsible for a child’s education is crucial, and getting to know teachers and staff in advance may help families sense whether the school is a good fit for their child. It is equally important to develop a relationship with the school’s administration. School choice should not be made lightly, as a poor fit between a school’s philosophy and a child’s needs can considerably hinder their development. Therefore, parents should seek to engage with key decision-makers.
Logistical considerations can also play a significant role in what is often an emotional decision. Because choosing a school for a child usually means choosing a school for at least five years, the subjects of location and transport options should be closely examined. How far away is the school? Morning commutes can be hectic even without children, so consideration should be given to how transport will be managed. Is the school within walking distance? If not, will the child take public transport, or will a car be required? If public transport is taken, it is important to research what the best route is, how long it takes, and whether a parent will need to accompany the child at first. It may also be worth considering whether the child attends a school that shares a drop-off point with many other students or one where they are the only child and thus more susceptible to anxiety or distress.
Ultimately, important questions are equally straightforward: What preliminary goals do families have for their child’s education? What do they hope their child will emerge from school with? Broadly speaking, schooling should provide children with the skills they need for life, but it may also be important to consider particular outcomes. For example, is it imperative that the child is fluent in a given language after schooling? If the choice is made to educate the child in that language, will further consideration need to be given as to how they will acquire literacy in their first language outside school? The decisions that parents make regarding their child’s education may significantly impact their opportunities both during childhood and as an adult; therefore, it is imperative to reflect on schooling goals.
Last but not least, and especially for expatriates unfamiliar with Singapore’s educational system, it may help to approach the decision-making process asymmetrically. Focus should first be placed on the child’s current school, what it emphasizes, and what skills it teaches. Then, a series of questions may be framed: How might a given school complement or support this? What does it provide beyond what the child will already have at their existing school? What does it offer that will necessitate a change in academic program and thus require consideration? Being as specific as possible at this stage may help clarify the goals of the decision-making process and thus assist in whittling down a long list of schools.
Deciding on a school for a child can be daunting, particularly in an unfamiliar culture with a system radically different from that of origin. However, there is hope in thinking about the philosophies behind schooling and child-rearing, as similar worries tend to plague all families irrespective of cultural context. In Singapore, whatever particular challenges the educational system poses, there are myriad resources and support services to help families navigate them. Schools typically offer informational seminars or workshops for prospective parents, and for those presenting a particular challenge, it may be worth considering engaging outside assistance. Educational consultants provide a service many schools do not offer: a comprehensive overview, collating information from a wide range of schools, some of which may be quite niche. If nothing else, educational choices are perhaps more straightforward in simpler times; many non-English-speaking expats exploited a simple band-aid solution: send their children to the International School, where they learned English and everything else would take care of itself.
Education is of paramount importance to families in Singapore. As a result, it is vital to understand the education system and what it can offer. This article aims to explore the various educational options available in Singapore, with a particular focus on mainstream schools. It is designed for those who may be unfamiliar with the country or education system, especially families considering relocating to Singapore. Key questions include what types of education are available, how accessible they are, whether some are of better quality than others, or if this is even a consideration (C. (Lee) Chew, 2015).
To adequately address these questions, the different stages of education and types of school in Singapore will be explained. In particular, the discussion will focus on mainstream options, as they are the most relevant for the majority of families. Alternative types of education, such as special needs schools and home schooling, fall outside the scope of this essay. Furthermore, international schools will not be covered in detail, as they are a different category with their own unique characteristics and considerations (Worsham, 2016). Instead, a more succinct overview of international education options will be provided. The goal is to ensure readers understand what the Singaporean education model has to offer, and what considerations to bear in mind, as well as the relevant questions to ask, when choosing schools for their children.
Public Schools vs. Private Schools
The Singapore education system consists of public and private schools. Public schools receive government funding and are under government control, whereas private schools are funded and overseen by private organizations. Each institution type offers similar benefits and features but varies in their pros and cons due to different funding arrangements.
Public schools usually adopt a curriculum that closely follows national guidelines set by the Ministry of Education, while private schools have the freedom and flexibility to create their own curriculum. Private schools are often perceived as having a more diverse selection of subjects, and many foreign schools even provide an international curriculum. However, public schools also provide a range of subjects and programs that encompass sports and the arts, and many secondary public schools offer special programs in areas such as language and music.
For most Singaporean families, public schools are the most logical choice, as families are more likely to choose a public school if they have to decide between the two types. In recent years, foreign or expatriate families with school-age children have a choice between public and private schools. It is relatively rare for expatriates to send their children to public schools, as it is largely common to send children to international schools instead. This is because there is commonly thought to be a language barrier that prevents non-Chinese speakers from enrolling in public schools, as public primary schools usually use Mandarin as the medium of teaching (Worsham, 2016). Additionally, public schools are seen to be less desirable due to overcrowding. On the other hand, for Singaporean families wishing to take the private school route, the most common choice is to enroll children in a church school. Church schools usually adopt a curriculum closer to public schools but also offer an alternative religious education. Although private schools are seen as a viable option, they are nevertheless much less accessible than public schools, especially regarding affordability.
The major concern about the Singapore education system is still regarding the public schools’ admission policy, as many Singaporean families worry that their children would not be able to gain entry into a public school (Ghafoor Awan Asma Zia, 2015). This is because generally, the more desirable choices of primary public schools are perceived as providing a better and higher quality education. Such perceptions exist because public schools are seen to have a more able cohort of students and are therefore thought to have a more enriching and conducive learning environment. Families that find it difficult to achieve such desirable choices would be less confident about their children’s education and thus feel a need to take additional measures to raise the children’s chances of success. Concerns are also raised regarding public schools’ ability in meeting their children’s learning needs if they are considered to be a more unique case, especially with regard to learning difficulties. On the other hand, public secondary schools’ admission policy also raises equity concerns as it involves a high-stakes national examination that separates twelve-year-old school children into different educational streams according to their education goals and capabilities.
In addressing families’ choices between school types, there is a need to consider how school budget and governance issues impact the perceived accessibility and quality of education at different school types. Accessibility issues would consider how the choice of school type would be affected by a family’s socioeconomic status and also how the choice of school type affects a child’s educational trajectory in respect of schooling affordability. Quality issues would examine how perceptions of school type affect one’s choice between the two, and also how school type impacts a child’s education and developmental outcomes and experiences. In regards to public schools, admissions to public schools and concerns regarding in meeting children’s learning needs would also be considered. Lastly, it would also address the degree of parental involvement in their children’s education and how different schools perceive and approach parental involvement, and thus how this impacts the dynamics of school community.
Specialized Schools and Programs
Beyond standard education, Singaporean families have the option of schools/programs specialized in sports, arts, science, or other fields. There are institutions dedicated to students with specific talents. Schools specialized in sports educate students aged 10-16 years who excel in particular sports. These schools adopt the same curriculum as national schools but dedicate more time to the chosen sport. Within primary schools, only one sport can be pursued, but secondary schools allow dual/switch options for sports. A similar model exists for the arts; programs within national schools are for students who excel in music, dance, or drama. A curriculum designed by the National Arts Council provides opportunities to learn from specialists. Because sports/art schools are considered co-curricular activity, students in these schools must also study a common curriculum. However, tournaments/performances may clash with the academics, and accommodations must be requested.
Several specialised schools/programmes exist to cater to gifted/talented individuals in academic subjects. Most government schools provide a gifted education programme in English, maths, science, etc., for 7-12-year-olds. Students go through several tests to qualify for this programme, and once they pass, there is no backing out. The GEP stream continues to secondary education, though students may leave if they switch to specialized schools. The government hopes to nurture diverse talents through these programmes. Other than the GEP, high-scoring students may join secondary specialized schools for science or humanities. The alternative pathways lead to Junior Colleges/Polytechnics, thus shaping Singapore into a STEM hub. Various science/art institutes provide opportunities for students to work on research projects/art pieces to prepare a portfolio before considering admission in mid-secondary education. Admission to specialized schools/programmes is via competitive tests. As a result, students join tuition or training classes to prepare in advance, starting from primary. The former feels stressed due to the heavy curriculum and expectation to excel, while the latter sees a good balance and flexibility in choice of school. It is worth pondering the larger cultural implications of promoting specialization in education at a young age.
Nonetheless, specialized schools/programmes enrich the educational landscape in Singapore. Currently, there are 10 specialized schools, four with a sole focus on one discipline and the rest with dual specializations, including a standard curriculum. Moreover, eight specialised programmes exist within national schools, including an intriguing one for speed reading.
Choosing the Right School for Your Child
As child-rearing and educational choices may exert a long-lasting influence on a child’s development, opportunities, and outcomes, it is of utmost importance that parents feel empowered to select the right school for their child. Perhaps the most important step in this process is an understanding of the child to be schooled. Every child is a unique mix of needs, interests, and learning styles, and reflection on these factors is critical to ensuring the best fit with a given school and its particular approach to education. Is an emphasis on academics or character development more suited to the child’s priorities? Does the child prefer a structured environment or one where they may explore at their leisure? How important are co-curricular activities such as sports, the arts, or music? These are just a few of the questions families should consider when beginning their search (M Lim et al., 2021).
Beyond the broad characteristics of a school system, there are a number of more specific factors that families may wish to reflect upon in their decision-making process. At a very fundamental level, parents can examine what is taught. Each school approaches academic subjects—usually the core ten subjects—differently, with some schools offering a wider variety of subjects than others or introducing subjects at an earlier age. However, education is more than simply a transmission of knowledge; families may also wish to consider what a school values in terms of education. Some schools emphasize the need to develop discipline and a strong work ethic, while others aim to foster creativity and independent thought. The school’s culture—what it values or emphasizes beyond academics—should be taken into consideration. Similarly, schools may offer a range of extracurricular opportunities—sports, drama, music, academic clubs, or student leadership initiatives—group activities that facilitate learning outside designated classroom time and an important part of a holistic education.
Once a short-list of both schools and types of schools has been prepared, efforts should be made to visit these schools and collect as much information as possible. Getting a feel for the atmosphere of a school is extremely difficult without stepping inside the gate. Attending open houses where kids are present is an excellent opportunity for parents to watch how children interact with teachers, other adults, and each other, as this may shed light on the school’s culture and priorities. At these open houses, parents can also engage with faculty. Time spent forming relationships and building trust with the adults who will be primarily responsible for a child’s education is crucial, and getting to know teachers and staff in advance may help families sense whether the school is a good fit for their child. It is equally important to develop a relationship with the school’s administration. School choice should not be made lightly, as a poor fit between a school’s philosophy and a child’s needs can considerably hinder their development. Therefore, parents should seek to engage with key decision-makers.
Logistical considerations can also play a significant role in what is often an emotional decision. Because choosing a school for a child usually means choosing a school for at least five years, the subjects of location and transport options should be closely examined. How far away is the school? Morning commutes can be hectic even without children, so consideration should be given to how transport will be managed. Is the school within walking distance? If not, will the child take public transport, or will a car be required? If public transport is taken, it is important to research what the best route is, how long it takes, and whether a parent will need to accompany the child at first. It may also be worth considering whether the child attends a school that shares a drop-off point with many other students or one where they are the only child and thus more susceptible to anxiety or distress.
Ultimately, important questions are equally straightforward: What preliminary goals do families have for their child’s education? What do they hope their child will emerge from school with? Broadly speaking, schooling should provide children with the skills they need for life, but it may also be important to consider particular outcomes. For example, is it imperative that the child is fluent in a given language after schooling? If the choice is made to educate the child in that language, will further consideration need to be given as to how they will acquire literacy in their first language outside school? The decisions that parents make regarding their child’s education may significantly impact their opportunities both during childhood and as an adult; therefore, it is imperative to reflect on schooling goals.
Last but not least, and especially for expatriates unfamiliar with Singapore’s educational system, it may help to approach the decision-making process asymmetrically. Focus should first be placed on the child’s current school, what it emphasizes, and what skills it teaches. Then, a series of questions may be framed: How might a given school complement or support this? What does it provide beyond what the child will already have at their existing school? What does it offer that will necessitate a change in academic program and thus require consideration? Being as specific as possible at this stage may help clarify the goals of the decision-making process and thus assist in whittling down a long list of schools.
Deciding on a school for a child can be daunting, particularly in an unfamiliar culture with a system radically different from that of origin. However, there is hope in thinking about the philosophies behind schooling and child-rearing, as similar worries tend to plague all families irrespective of cultural context. In Singapore, whatever particular challenges the educational system poses, there are myriad resources and support services to help families navigate them. Schools typically offer informational seminars or workshops for prospective parents, and for those presenting a particular challenge, it may be worth considering engaging outside assistance.
Educational consultants provide a service many schools do not offer: a comprehensive overview, collating information from a wide range of schools, some of which may be quite niche. If nothing else, educational choices are perhaps more straightforward in simpler times; many non-English-speaking expats exploited a simple band-aid solution: send their children to the International School, where they learned English and everything else would take care of itself.
Finding the right fit can be overwhelming, so share this with parents you know in Singapore, those planning to have their children study there, or anyone considering pursuing higher education in Singapore themselves. It’s always best to know your options, and having a comprehensive overview of the educational landscape is a valuable first step.