"Empower yourself with clarity to choose the right educational path for your child with our guide to understanding IP, SAP, and SIS schools in Singapore."
Understanding Singapore’s education system can sometimes be overwhelming due to its numerous programmes and options. However, having a range of options allows you to pick and choose the best learning journey for your child. One important decision parents often encounter is choosing between the Special Assistance Plan (SAP) and the Specialised Independent School (SIS).
Understanding the distinctions between these schools will allow you to make an informed choice that matches your child’s academic goals and ambitions. In this article, we’ll break down what makes IP, SAP, and SIS schools different, giving you the clarity and confidence to navigate this crucial decision-making process.
The Integrated Programme (IP)
The Integrated Programme in Singapore, known as the “Through-Train Programme,” is a special education track by the Ministry of Education (MOE). It’s designed for high-achieving students to smoothly transition from secondary to pre-university education without taking the usual GCE O-level exams (except for Higher Mother Tongue). Instead, they move directly to A levels, International Baccalaureate Diploma, or similar assessments at age 18 after six years of secondary education. Skipping the O levels gives students more time for diverse educational experiences and activities.
IP students have more flexibility in planning their studies from Year 1 to Year 4 compared to other students. This flexibility lets them explore various subjects and activities beyond academics, creating a more personalised learning journey.
In IP schools, students skip the O levels and go straight to Junior Colleges (JCs) in Year 5 (JC1) for advanced studies. This streamlined approach has become popular as an alternative to traditional secondary education.
The IP encourages students to take a more independent and project-based approach to learning, which helps develop critical thinking and creativity—skills valued in today’s workforce.
The programme has expanded to cover various subjects and activities, preparing students well for higher education and beyond. It helps cultivate analytical skills and a versatile skill set while allowing students to explore their academic interests.
Without the pressure of O-level exams, IP promotes holistic development through research projects, internships, and community service. These experiences enhance learning and nurture qualities like social responsibility and leadership, preparing students for success in a complex world.
List of Integrated Programme Schools in Singapore:
- Anglo-Chinese School (Independent)
- Catholic High School
- Cedar Girls’ Secondary School
- CHIJ St. Nicholas Girls’ School
- Dunman High School
- Hwa Chong Institution (Secondary)
- Methodist Girls’ School
- Nanyang Girls’ High School
- National Junior College
- NUS High School of Mathematics and Science
- Raffles Girls’ School
- Raffles Institution (Secondary)
- River Valley High School
- Singapore Chinese Girls’ School
- St. Joseph’s Institution (SJI)
- Temasek Junior College
- Victoria School
The Special Assistance Plan (SAP)
The Special Assistance Plan in Singapore is an educational initiative tailored for students proficient in their mother tongue, particularly Chinese. SAP schools, also known as Chinese Schools, focus exclusively on Chinese-language education.
SAP started in the 1960s and 1970s when English became Singapore’s main language. Concerns about preserving Singapore’s Chinese heritage led Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew to support keeping Chinese-medium schools.
In 1978, SAP was introduced by transforming nine Chinese-medium secondary schools into bilingual institutions of high academic standards, ensuring proficiency in both English and Chinese. Over the following years, as Chinese-medium primary schools decreased in number, the Ministry of Education expanded SAP to include more primary schools, totalling 15 schools.
One advantage of SAP schools is increased government funding to promote Chinese language learning and cultural activities. This support helps SAP schools acquire extra educational resources for activities like calligraphy classes and cultural events, enriching students’ understanding of Chinese heritage.
SAP schools are known for their excellent resources and academic standards, consistently ranking among Singapore’s top institutions. Some subjects are taught in Mandarin, enhancing students’ bilingual abilities. Also, students can participate in exchange programs with schools in China, gaining cross-cultural experiences and improving language skills.
The Special Assistance Plan reflects Singapore’s dedication to bilingual education and cultural heritage. By providing a supportive environment for students strong in their mother tongue, SAP schools preserve traditional values while equipping students for success in a globalised world. This program promotes academic excellence and fosters a deep appreciation for Singapore’s multicultural identity and linguistic diversity.
List of Secondary SAP Schools in Singapore:
- Anglican High School
- Catholic High School
- CHIJ St Nicholas Girls’ School
- Chinese High School
- Chung Cheng High School (Main)
- Dunman High School
- Maris Stella High School
- Nanyang Girls’ High School
- Nan Chiau High School
- Nan Hua High School
- River Valley High School
List of Primary SAP Schools in Singapore:
- Ai Tong School
- Catholic High School (Primary)
- CHIJ St Nicholas Girls’ (Primary)
- Holy Innocents’ Primary School
- Hong Wen School
- Kong Hwa School
- Maha Bodhi School
- Maris Stella High (Primary)
- Nanyang Primary School
- Nan Hua Primary School
- Pei Chun Public School
- Pei Hwa Presbyterian Primary School
- Poi Ching School
- Red Swastika School
- Tao Nan School
Specialised Independent Schools (SIS)
Specialised Independent Schools in Singapore offer customised education for students with exceptional abilities and passion in specific areas like mathematics, sciences, sports, and the arts. Established by the Ministry of Education, these schools have special curricula to nurture and develop students’ potential in their chosen fields.
Unlike regular secondary schools that use the Secondary One (S1) Posting Exercise for admissions, Specialised Independent Schools have a different process. Interested students (except for those applying to the Singapore Sports School) go through the Direct School Admissions (DSA) process. This lets students directly showcase their talents, achievements, and potential to their desired schools.
Each Specialised Independent School focuses on a specific area, providing advanced courses and special training. For example, schools focusing on maths and sciences have challenging academic programs that highlight analytical thinking and problem-solving. Similarly, schools for sports or the arts offer intense training to develop students’ athletic or artistic talents.
The curriculum in these schools is designed to give a thorough education in the chosen field. Students get specialised resources, expert teachers, and facilities that support their growth and progress.
Specialised Independent Schools are vital in Singapore’s education system, meeting the unique needs and talents of gifted students. They encourage excellence and innovation in different fields, adding to Singapore’s reputation for talent development and education quality. By providing tailored education and advanced training, these schools empower students to succeed in their interests and contribute meaningfully to society.
List of Specialised Independent Schools in Singapore:
- NUS High School of Mathematics and Science: focuses on Mathematics, Science, Technology and Engineering.
- School of Science and Technology, Singapore: focuses on applied learning in Science, Technology, Aesthetics, Engineering and Mathematics.
- School of the Arts: focuses on Visual, Literary and Performing Arts.
- Singapore Sports School: focuses on Sports and Athletics.
To explore further parenting guidance on school-related matters, check out What Parents Need to Know About Secondary School Curriculum and All about Co-Curricular Activities: How to Choose the Right CCA for Your Kids