Which Secondary School to Choose 

PSLE results for the year of 2023 will be released on 22 November 2023. After obtaining the result slip the most important question is, “What is next?”.  Most students would choose to further academic studies by entering into the secondary schools. 

This decision can be a difficult one, a few questions that you may consider are:  

1. “Should you choose a neighbouring school or an elite school?”
2. “Is the secondary school in close proximity to your house?”
3. “Is your child capable of keeping up with the academic rigour?”
4. “What types of subjects does your child score better in? The Arts or the Sciences?” 

Clarifying some of the above questions will help you to better narrow down the schools that are available for your child and apply for the better option. Subsequently, the following are additional considerations for your decisions, especially for students seeking a science intensive school. 

1. Academic Reputation:

Significance for Chemistry Learning:

An institution’s academic reputation is indicative of its commitment to excellence in education. Look for schools with a strong track record in science subjects, particularly Chemistry. Schools with a reputation for academic excellence often have well-qualified teachers, advanced laboratories, and a curriculum that effectively prepares students for challenging subjects like Chemistry.

For example, Raffles Institution is a common pick by many students for their performance in the sciences and math in comparison to other schools. However, this is not to say that picking other schools equates to “losing out”. Other schools close by such as Catholic High School also have a good reputation in various fronts and offer a wide variety of choices. 

2. Teachers’ Qualifications and Expertise:

The qualifications and expertise of the teachers are crucial. Teachers who are well-qualified, experienced, and passionate about their subject can significantly enhance the learning experience. 

Check the school’s faculty profiles to ensure that the department has teachers with relevant qualifications and a track record of producing successful students in examinations. This applies to all subjects, and is more significant for chemistry, where complex concepts made easy by teachers can make a world of difference for the student. 

Though not a definite list, MOE also publishes yearly lists of teachers that are awarded for their excellence, with the most recent being the “Honours for Dedication and Excellence in Education”.  

3. Facilities and Resources

Well-equipped science laboratories and resources are essential for effective Chemistry education. Assess the school’s facilities, including the quality and accessibility of its Chemistry labs, availability of modern equipment, and the variety of resources such as textbooks, online materials, and reference books. Adequate resources contribute to a more engaging and comprehensive Chemistry learning experience.

4. Co-Curricular Activities and Competitions

Schools that actively participate in co-curricular activities, competitions, and enrichment programs can offer students additional avenues for learning and application of theoretical knowledge. Additionally, physical components of certain CCA’s help students to maintain a healthy lifestyle, make new friends and build camaraderie. 

For academics, these activities can include science fairs, Chemistry Olympiads, and research projects, providing students with hands-on experiences and a deeper understanding of the subject beyond the classroom.

For sports, this can include facilities for rock-climbing, trampolines or other sports requiring additional equipment investments from the school. 

CCA’s can be an avenue for students to learn new skills as well as to stock up on achievements. For example, the SYF is a prestigious yearly competition where schools present their band symphonies for competition. The awards range from commendation to distinction based on the piece chosen and presentation or delivery. 

Check out the schools and their achievements for SYF 2023 here!

5. Supportive Learning Environment:

A supportive learning environment is crucial for students to thrive. 

Consider the school’s culture, class sizes, and the level of individual attention students receive. Schools that prioritize a positive and encouraging atmosphere foster better engagement with the subject. A supportive environment encourages students to ask questions, seek clarification, and actively participate in Chemistry-related discussions, enhancing their overall learning experience.

In summary, when choosing a secondary school in Singapore with a focus on Chemistry learning, consider factors such as academic reputation, teacher qualifications, facilities, co-curricular opportunities, and the overall learning environment. These factors collectively contribute to a well-rounded and enriching educational experience for students interested in excelling in Chemistry.