MOE's New Subject Based Banding & How It Will Affect Your Child in Secondary School

As Singapore’s education landscape evolves, so does the approach to secondary school education. The Ministry of Education (MOE) has introduced Subject-Based Banding (SBB), a new initiative aimed at providing more flexibility and personalised learning journey experiences for students.

In this article, we’ll explore what SBB entails and how it will impact your child’s secondary school experience.

Understanding Subject-Based Banding

Secondary school students often struggle with the existing system that does not allow for co curricular activities

Traditionally, students in primary schools in Singapore are streamed into academic streams based on their Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE) results, leading to classes with a fixed curriculum.

Subject-based banding, however, allows students to take subjects at different academic levels based on their abilities and interests. This means that students can be in the same form class but take different subject combinations tailored to their strengths.

Flexibility in Subject Combinations

Under Subject-Based Banding, students have the flexibility to choose subjects at different levels, offering a more personalised learning experience.

For example, a student may excel in Mathematics and Science but require additional support in Humanities subjects. Under this, eligible students can take higher-level classes in their strong subjects while receiving additional support in others.

This flexibility in subjects can allow students to take the English language and mother tongue languages in class, as well as academic and normal technical courses that can be useful in higher education.

Transitioning to Mixed-Form Classes

Mixed form classes can help students with a diverse range of skills in taking subjects that they enjoy

With the implementation of Subject-Based Banding, secondary schools will adopt mixed-form classes, where students with common curriculum subjects are grouped together.

This fosters collaboration and peer learning among students with diverse strengths and interests. Additionally, it promotes inclusivity and reduces the stigma associated with being in specific academic streams.

What Does Subject-Based Banding Mean for Students?

Expanding Post-Secondary Pathways

Subject based banding can help students do well in N Level Examinations and polytechnic education

SBB opens up a wider range of post-secondary education pathways for students. Previously, students were channelled into specific academic streams based on their PSLE scores, limiting their options.

With SBB, students have the opportunity to explore different subjects and pathways, including polytechnic foundation programme, technical education, and junior colleges.

With different subject combinations and higher subject levels, this allows students to excel in their preferred subjects, as well as take up the six common curriculum subjects (Art, Character and Citizenship Education, Design and Technology, Food and Consumer Education, Music and Physical Education).

Enhancing Learning Opportunities

By allowing students to take mixed-form classes at different levels, subject-based banding promotes a deeper understanding of topics and encourages lifelong learning.

Students can challenge themselves academically while receiving support in areas where they may need additional assistance. This holistic approach to education better prepares students for future challenges and opportunities.

Adapting to the New System

As the Ministry of Education transitions to full subject-based banding implementation, schools will provide the necessary support and resources to ensure a smooth transition for students.

Teachers will receive training on delivering mixed-form classes, and schools will develop teaching materials that cater to students’ diverse needs to help them improve their academic performance.

Ready to Help Your Child Unleash their Academic Performance?

Subject classes these days are demanding, which does not enable students to think efficiently and creatively. Students have a hard time choosing elective subjects of their liking as they have to try and pass national exams with subjects that seem to have more “value” in society.

At Math Nuggets, we aim to provide support for students taking mathematics as part of their subject-based banding education while they prepare for their primary school leaving examinations (PSLE). With our expert tutors, we can help your child tackle math anxiety and score well in their exams!