Planning Your Education: How to Pick Schools 

Singapore Secondary School 

The release of the PSLE results in 2023 marks a pivotal moment for students as they contemplate their next academic steps. Many will navigate the decision of selecting a secondary school, and the considerations are multifaceted. 

For the batch of 2024, new secondary school students are introduced to the SBB system, where students have to take G1, G2, and G3 subjects. (In order of increasing difficulty).  

Mainly, the subjects for Secondary 1 are English Language, Mother Tongue Languages, Mathematics and Science.This is two-thirds of the curriculum time.  

For the subsequent batch of students, this will be a reference point to make subject decisions as they may choose to take similar subjects based. Nonetheless, the fundamental reasons and method of choosing a Singapore secondary school will not differ, refer to this article on “How to choose a secondary school” for some factors to consider. 

How Was The 2024 Secondary School Posting Results? 

On 20th December 2023, the posting results were made and it was estimated that “MOE said more than 80 per cent of pupils were posted to a school within their top three choices, while more than 90 per cent of pupils were posted to a school within their top six options.”. 

For the 2023 Primary 6 cohort, about 64 per cent of students eligible for Posting Groups 1 and 2 are suitable to take at least one subject at a more demanding level.

Tertiary Education and Higher Education 

After secondary schoo, the path to education is numerous, students can choose between Polytechnic, Junior College (JC), and the Institute of Technical Education (ITE) for tertiary education. This too involves considering several criteria to align with individual goals, preferences, and academic strengths. 

Here are some key criteria’s to help make an informed decision:

1. Academic Strengths and Preferences:

Consider your academic strengths and preferences. 

• JCs provide a more theoretical and broad-based curriculum,
  
• Polytechnics offer hands-on, applied learning with a focus on specific skills and industries.
  
• ITE offers practical skills training.
  

2. Career Aspirations:

Unlike secondary schools, these formative years play a more significant role in your future jobs as it cultivates the key concepts and skills needed for further upskilling. Therefore, identify your career aspirations. 

• JCs provide a pathway to university education
• Polytechnics often lead to direct entry into the workforce or further studies at the university level.
• ITE equips students with technical skills for specific vocations.
  

3. Duration of Study:

Consider the duration of study. Polytechnic courses typically span three years, JCs offer a two-year program leading to the ‘A’ Levels, and ITE courses vary in duration. The time commitment may influence your decision based on personal preferences and career goals.

4. University Admission Requirements:

If your goal is to pursue a university education, research the admission requirements. JCs provide a direct pathway to local universities through the ‘A’ Levels, while polytechnic graduates may need to undergo additional bridging programs. ITE graduates can also progress to higher Nitec or diploma programs.

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5. Industry Connections, Internships or CCA’s:

Research the industry connections and internship opportunities provided by each institution. Polytechnics often have strong ties with industries, offering internships and exposure. JCs may focus more on academic pursuits, while ITE emphasizes practical experience.

Some also offer extracurricular opportunities. Polytechnics and JCs offer various clubs, societies, and activities that contribute to personal development. ITE provides opportunities for hands-on experiences and industry exposure

What Matters? 

At the end of the day what matters is your perspective. Given the range of considerations, making the decision will be based on your preference.

Align your decision with personal goals and preferences. Consider factors such as location, campus facilities, class size, and overall environment to ensure a comfortable and supportive learning experience.