Choosing the right school for your child can be a daunting task, especially in a highly competitive and diverse education system like Singapore’s. As a parent, you want to provide your child with the best possible education and ensure they have a positive learning experience. With so many options available, it’s important to consider factors such as academic performance, teaching methods, facilities, and fees when searching for a school. This article aims to provide some guidance on why to choose Singapore for education, from primary school to higher secondary programmes.
Education System in Singapore
The education system in Singapore is highly regarded and recognized globally for its quality and effectiveness. The system is largely centralised and standardised, with the Ministry of Education overseeing all aspects of education, from curriculum development to teacher training and school management.
The system is divided into six years of primary education, four to five years of secondary education, and two to three years of post-secondary education. The curriculum is comprehensive and emphasises bilingualism, STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) education, and character development.
The education system is highly competitive, with students regularly taking high-stakes national exams such as the Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE) and the General Certificate of Education (GCE) ‘O’ and ‘A’ level exams. Overall, the education system in Singapore is designed to equip students with the skills, knowledge, and values needed to succeed in the global economy and contribute to society.
Education in international schools in Singapore is generally expensive compared to local schools, and tuition fees vary depending on the school and the grade level. However, some schools offer scholarships and financial aid to eligible students to help make education more affordable. So parents searching for primary school Class 2 fees in 2023 should inquire in depth and then finalise.
About IB Programme
The International Baccalaureate (IB) program is a rigorous two-year curriculum that prepares students for university and beyond. The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive and interdisciplinary education that emphasises critical thinking, problem-solving, and global awareness.
The IB Programme consists of six subject groups, each of which requires students to study one subject at a higher level (HL) and two subjects at a standard level (SL). The subject groups are as follows:
- Studies in Language and Literature: This group includes courses in the student’s primary language, such as English, Spanish, French, or Mandarin. Students will study literature and develop critical reading, writing, and communication skills.
- Language Acquisition: This group includes courses in a secondary language, such as Spanish, French, Mandarin, or Japanese. Students will develop their language skills in reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
- Individuals and Societies: This group includes courses in social studies such as history, economics, psychology, and anthropology. Students will learn about human behaviour, society, culture, and politics.
- Sciences: This group includes courses in biology, chemistry, physics, and environmental systems and societies. Students will study the principles and applications of scientific knowledge and develop experimental skills.
- Mathematics: This group includes courses in mathematics at different levels, such as mathematical studies, standard level, and higher level. Students will develop problem-solving and analytical skills.
- The Arts: This group includes courses in visual arts, music, theatre, and dance. Students will develop their creativity, artistic skills, and appreciation of different cultural expressions.
In addition to these subject groups, the IB program also includes three core components that all students must complete:
- Theory of Knowledge (TOK): This course explores the nature of knowledge, the ways in which we acquire knowledge, and the relationship between knowledge and truth.
- Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS): This program encourages students to engage in creative, physical, and service-oriented activities outside of the classroom.
- Extended Essay: This is a research-based essay of up to 4,000 words that allows students to explore a topic of their choice in depth.
The International Baccalaureate (IB) Assessment
The International Baccalaureate (IB) program uses a comprehensive and rigorous assessment system that evaluates student learning across a range of criteria. The IB assessment system is designed to be fair, transparent, and reliable, and it includes both internal and external assessments.
Internal assessments are conducted by teachers within the school and include coursework, projects, and other assignments that are marked against established criteria. Internal assessments vary by subject but may include oral presentations, written essays, laboratory reports, artistic performances, and more. Internal assessments typically account for 20-30% of a student’s final grade in each subject.
External assessments are conducted by independent examiners appointed by the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) and are taken by students at the end of the two-year program. External assessments include written exams, oral exams, and other assessments that are marked against established criteria. External assessments account for 70-80% of a student’s final grade in each subject.
In addition to subject-specific assessments, the IB program includes three core components that are also assessed:
- Theory of Knowledge (TOK): TOK is assessed through an essay and a presentation that explore the nature of knowledge and the relationship between different areas of knowledge.
- Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS): CAS is assessed through a portfolio that documents a student’s engagement in creative, physical, and service-oriented activities outside of the classroom.
- Extended Essay: The extended essay is assessed by independent examiners and is marked against established criteria. The extended essay accounts for up to three points towards a student’s overall IB Diploma score.
Overall, the IB assessment system is designed to provide a comprehensive evaluation of student learning across a range of criteria and to prepare students for university-level study.
Why Choose Singapore for the IB Programme?
There are several reasons why choosing to do the International Baccalaureate (IB) program in Singapore can be a great decision.
- Firstly, Singapore is home to some of the best universities and educational institutions in Asia, with a strong reputation for academic excellence and world-class facilities.
- Students who choose to study in Singapore can benefit from a diverse range of programs and courses, as well as a supportive and welcoming academic environment.
- Singapore is a global hub for business and commerce, providing students with opportunities to gain practical experience and real-world skills.
- Singapore’s strong economy and strategic location also make it a gateway to other parts of Asia, providing students with valuable exposure to different cultures, languages, and perspectives.
- Singapore is a safe, clean, and well-connected city-state that offers a high quality of life for students. With its modern infrastructure, excellent public transport, and vibrant cultural scene, Singapore is an ideal place for students to live, study, and explore.
- Singapore’s government has made significant investments in education, research, and innovation, creating a dynamic and forward-thinking environment that supports the growth and development of students.
- Singapore’s commitment to education and research has resulted in numerous academic partnerships and collaborations with leading institutions around the world, providing students with unparalleled opportunities for academic and professional growth.
Overall, choosing to pursue higher secondary programs in Singapore can be a smart and rewarding decision for students looking to gain a world-class education, develop valuable skills, and explore new opportunities in a dynamic and supportive environment. Parents who are moving to Singapore and looking for their child’s Class 2 Fees 2023 or higher secondary program can relax as they do not have to worry about their child’s education.
