Choosing the right secondary school is a big step for your child’s future, and with Singapore’s shifting educational landscape, it can be a confusing process.
Understanding the intricacies of school rankings and Cut-Off Points (COPs) is essential for making informed decisions.
That’s why we’ve done the legwork to make this process easier for you!
With insights into the factors that influence these rankings, this guide is designed to help you navigate the choices and find the best fit for your child’s educational journey.
Understanding Singapore's Education System
Achievement Level (AL) PSLE Score
In Singapore, secondary education follows six years of primary schooling and culminates in the Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE).
Students’ PSLE scores, now represented by the Achievement Levels scoring system, which ranges from 1 to 8, determine their placement in secondary schools. The total AL score is the sum of the AL scores for the four subjects taken in the PSLE.
Full Subject Based Banding
Starting in 2024, Full Subject-Based Banding (SBB) replaces the Express, Normal (Academic), and Normal (Technical) streams, fostering mixed-form classes that promote interaction among students of varied backgrounds and academic prowess by offering subjects at different difficulty levels:
- General 1 (G1): For students needing foundational support, covering basics at a slower pace.
- General 2 (G2): For those with moderate proficiency, offering a balanced mix of foundational and challenging content.
- General 3 (G3): Targets students with strong proficiency, incorporating advanced topics at a faster pace.
Posting Groups
Despite the removal of streaming, students’ allocation to secondary schools is still primarily based on their Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE) scores.
To ensure a fair and efficient placement process, students will be posted to secondary schools through three Posting Groups, mapped from the current Express, N(A) and N(T) standards:
- Posting Group 1: Consists of students with the lowest PSLE scores.
- Posting Group 2: Includes students with mid-range PSLE scores.
- Posting Group 3: Comprises students with the highest PSLE scores.
The Posting Groups will only be used for posting students into secondary schools and guide the subject levels that they can take on initially at the start of Secondary 1.
For example, a student who enters a school under posting group 3 will start with mostly G3 subjects. A student who enters under posting group 2 will start with mostly G2 subjects but may be offered the option to take some at a G3 level depending on their PSLE results or if they do well later on.
Once in school, students will be grouped in mixed-form classes comprising students from different Posting Groups for the six common curriculum subjects.
Meanwhile, students will take core subjects like science, mathematics, or English in classes according to their subject level. This means a core subject class could be made up of students from posting groups 2 and 3, with all of them taking the subject at a G3 level.
2024 Secondary School Ranking
Secondary schools use the total AL score to determine the Cut-Off Points (COPs) for admission. The COP is the AL score of the last student admitted to the school in a given year.
The first number in these ranges is the highest score accepted, while the second number in the range is the lowest score accepted.
Score is 90 after sheet info is added
IP Secondary School Ranking
The Integrated Programme (IP) is a distinctive educational pathway in Singapore designed for exceptionally academically strong students.
It allows students to bypass the GCE O-Level examinations and proceed directly to the GCE A-Level examinations, International Baccalaureate (IB), or other equivalent qualifications.
Affiliated Secondary School Ranking
Affiliated schools offer students from their affiliated primary schools a slight advantage in admissions, provided they meet a minimum academic criterion.
Non-Affiliated Secondary School Ranking
Non-affiliated schools in Singapore have no direct primary school affiliations, meaning their admission is based solely on merit and PSLE scores.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Secondary School
1. School Culture
Understanding a school’s culture involves grasping its values, norms, and atmosphere. Some schools may emphasise academic excellence, while others prioritise holistic development or specific values like discipline or creativity.
By considering school culture, parents can ensure that their child’s educational environment aligns with their child’s interests, beliefs and preferences, fostering a conducive learning atmosphere.
2. Co-Curricular Activities (CCAs)
CCAs play a crucial role in shaping a student’s character, interests, and social skills. Schools with robust CCA programs offer a wide range of activities such as sports, arts, clubs, and community service initiatives.
Engaging in CCAs can provide students with opportunities to explore their passions, develop leadership skills, and build friendships outside the classroom, contributing to a well-rounded education.
3. Location
Proximity to home is an essential practical consideration when choosing a secondary school. Opting for a school close to home reduces commuting time and alleviates stress for both students and parents.
Additionally, it facilitates easier participation in school-related activities and allows for greater involvement in the local community.
4. Academic Programs
Different schools offer various academic programs catering to diverse learning styles and aspirations. For example, the Integrated Programme (IP) provides a seamless secondary and pre-university education, allowing students to bypass the GCE O-Level examination.
On the other hand, the International Baccalaureate (IB) offers a globally recognised curriculum emphasising critical thinking, research skills, and international-mindedness.
Ready to take the next step in your child's education journey?
As your child navigates this important transition, ensuring they have strong academic support is paramount.
To help your kids enter these prestigious schools, look no further than The Nuggets Academy!
Specialising in mathematics tuition for primary and secondary school students, The Nuggets Academy is dedicated to helping your child excel in one of the most challenging subjects.
With a team of experienced tutors, tailored lesson plans, small group classes and a focus on building a strong mathematical foundation, The Nuggets Academy provides the support and resources your child needs to achieve their academic goals with confidence.