secondary school

Parents’ Guide: Secondary 1 Posting Results on 18 December 2024

Nadya Sharfina · December 17, 2024 · Leave a Comment

"Mark your calendars: Sec 1 posting results are out on 18 December 2024."

The Secondary 1 (S1) posting process is a key step for most students as they transition from primary to secondary school. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you understand the process and prepare for what’s next.

PSLE Results Release

The Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE) results will be released on Wednesday, 18 December 2024, at 9 am. Once the results are out, parents and students can access the S1 posting outcomes through several convenient methods:

SMS: If you provided your mobile number during the earlier submission of school choices via the S1 Internet System (S1-IS), you will receive an SMS with your child’s posting details.
Online: You can log in to the S1-IS using your child’s Birth Certificate (BC) number or FIN along with the S1 PIN.
Primary School: If needed, you can contact your child’s primary school for assistance in retrieving the results.

What to Do After Receiving the Results

Your child is not required to report immediately to their allocated secondary school upon receiving the results. Instead, it’s essential to check the school’s website for key details, including:

Reporting instructions and schedules
Booklists
Guidelines for purchasing uniforms and books

If you are on Parents Gateway (PG), additional instructions and updates for the incoming Sec 1 cohort will be provided through the platform.

First Day of School and Reporting Issues

The first day of school for the new academic year is Thursday, 2 January 2025. If your child cannot report to their new school on this day for valid reasons, it is crucial to contact the school directly to explain the situation.

It is also necessary to inform the posted secondary school after receiving the results to confirm that your child will be taking up the spot. This step ensures that the school reserves a place for them.

Stay Informed

For more details about the S1 posting process and related updates, please visit the Ministry of Education’s (MOE) website. Staying informed and following the necessary steps will help ensure a smooth transition for your child into secondary school.

Check out: Tips for Parents: What to Expect in Secondary 1

Tips for Parents: What to Expect in Secondary 1

Nadya Sharfina · December 17, 2024 · Leave a Comment

"The transition from primary to secondary school marks a pivotal moment in your child’s education, filled with new experiences, challenges, and opportunities for growth."

The transition from primary to secondary school is a significant milestone in your child’s education journey. This move represents not just a change in academic level, but also an introduction to an entirely new environment filled with fresh experiences and challenges. It’s a time of growth and adaptation as students step into a more complex and dynamic phase of their schooling.

In Secondary 1, your child will encounter a new school environment, new friends, new teachers, and new subjects. These changes bring excitement but can also feel overwhelming as they adjust to different routines and expectations. Understanding what lies ahead can help you and your child navigate this transition smoothly.

Read on to discover what Secondary 1 looks like. With the right preparation, you and your child can face this new chapter with confidence and a clear sense of what to expect.

Adjusting to a New Social Environment

The transition from primary to secondary school is the sense of uncertainty it brings. Your child will be stepping into a new and unfamiliar environment, filled with unknowns. This shift can feel both exciting and daunting as they leave behind the familiar routines of primary school and adapt to a more complex setting.

For many children, the social landscape changes dramatically. They may find that their primary school friends are in different classes or even at other schools altogether. This separation can feel isolating, especially as they try to navigate this new environment and build connections with peers they haven’t met before. They are in the process of making new friends and learning to adapt to different personalities and social dynamics.

Adding to these changes is the way they interact with teachers. In primary school, children are generally used to having one or two main teachers for most subjects. In secondary school, however, they may have up to 10 different teachers, each with their own teaching style and expectations. Adjusting to these varying approaches can take time, and your child may find that they prefer some teaching styles over others.

A Wider Range of Subjects

Your child will face increased complexity in the subjects they study. The curriculum expands to cover a wider range of topics and deeper content. Core subjects like English, Mathematics, Science, and Mother Tongue will continue to be central to their education, but they will also be introduced to a variety of new subjects that enrich their learning experience.

In addition to the core subjects, your child will encounter new subjects such as History, Design & Technology, Food & Nutrition, Geography, and Literature. Each subject introduces different concepts and skills and encourages them to explore new ways of learning in the classroom.

Co-Curricular Activities (CCAs)

While academics remain a central focus in Secondary 1, CCAs will also become a significant part of your child’s school life. Through CCAs, students develop new skills, explore their interests, and form lasting memories. Check out: All about Co-Curricular Activities: How to Choose the Right CCA for Your Kids.

CCAs also offer an opportunity for your child to bond with peers outside of their class. Participating in activities such as sports, performing arts, clubs, societies, or uniformed groups allows them to connect with others who share similar passions. These interactions help build teamwork and foster friendships that can enrich their secondary school experience.

To make the most of this opportunity, encourage your child to read up on the CCAs available at their school. Having a clear idea of what’s offered and what appeals to them will help them make an informed choice when it’s time to select their activities.

Developing Independent Learning Skills

Secondary 1 is the perfect time for your child to begin developing skills for independent learning. In certain programmes such as the IP or IB, a strong emphasis is placed on self-directed study.

As a parent, your role shifts from closely guiding your child to fostering their ability to manage their studies on their own. Focus on helping them establish good learning habits that they can execute independently. These habits will not only enhance their academic performance but also prepare them for future challenges. While it’s important to give them room to grow, keeping a light hand on monitoring their progress ensures they stay on track.

Introducing your child to different study methods can be a great way to help them find what works best for them. Techniques such as the Pomodoro method for time management, mnemonics for memorisation, “eat the frog” for tackling challenging tasks first, or the PQ4R method for better comprehension are all effective tools. Encourage them to try different approaches and see which ones suit their learning style.

To explore more study methods, check out Curio’s Instagram and TikTok. You’ll find a variety of tips and strategies designed to make learning more engaging and effective.

Building Effective Time-Management Skills

Transitioning to Secondary 1 brings an increase in academic pressure as your child takes on more subjects and a heavier workload. Unlike primary school, where the timetable is simpler, secondary school introduces a more complex schedule with additional subjects and responsibilities. This often means longer hours at school and more time spent studying and completing homework at home, making effective time-management skills essential.

Secondary school schedules can also include dedicated days for co-curricular activities (CCAs), extra classes, tests, and exams, which add to the challenge of balancing schoolwork and other commitments. If your child is not used to managing their time effectively, this can feel overwhelming. Open conversations about time management and prioritising tasks can help them develop the skills needed to juggle their responsibilities. Encouraging them to plan ahead, break tasks into smaller steps, and set realistic goals will support them throughout their secondary school years.

Preparing for the Secondary School Routine

The school day is often longer in secondary school, which can be challenging for students who aren’t used to it.

Secondary school days tend to be more demanding, with a full schedule of lessons, co-curricular activities, and sometimes extra classes or responsibilities. This added workload and longer hours can make your child feel more tired as they get used to the new routine. Even school holidays, which may include activities, new subject preparation, or bridging programmes, can feel more like an extension of the school term than a break.

If your child has homework or assignments to complete, it’s important to help them plan their time from the start. Encouraging them to organise their schedule can ensure they have a short rest after school before starting their homework. This balance can help them recharge and stay energetic while keeping up with their studies. Supporting your child in creating a sustainable routine will make it easier for them to handle the demands of the school day.

For more information about secondary schools, check out our other articles: 6 Tips for Choosing a Secondary School for Your Kids and What Parents Need to Know About Secondary School Curriculum

At Curio, we aim to support students in their academic growth by offering specialised programmes tailored to their needs. Our English Literature ‘O’ Level Programme and English Language ‘O’ Level Programme are designed to deepen their understanding of language and literature. These courses cover essential components such as Situational Writing, Continuous Writing, Unseen Poetry, and Prose. To further enhance their skills, we provide additional topics including critical analysis of responses (both written and oral), building a comprehensive Vocabulary Bank, Article/Media Response, and more. These supplementary topics are aimed at equipping your child with the tools needed to excel in both their academic work and beyond. Check out our website on curio.sg or drop us a call/WhatsApp on 8892 2948 for an obligation-free consultation!

6 Tips for Choosing a Secondary School for Your Kids

Nadya Sharfina · April 5, 2024 · Leave a Comment

"Selecting the ideal secondary school for your child can be daunting. Prioritise your child's enthusiasm and support, and use these six tips to make the best decision for their future."

As parents, trying to find the perfect secondary school for kids can be a bit of a head-scratcher. Your preferences matter, but ensure your child feels enthusiastic and supported. Whether you are just starting the decision-making process or narrowing down your options, these six suggestions will help you make the greatest selection for your child’s future.

1. Visit All the Potential Schools During Their Open House

One of the most important aspects of selecting the ideal secondary school for your child is doing school visits. You can learn about the school’s track record, visit its facilities, and learn about their values. It’s an opportunity for both you and your child to see the school in action, observing the current students bustling about, interacting with teachers, and getting a sense of the overall vibe.

Immersing yourself in the location provides crucial information that cannot be obtained from a brochure or website. When you have this entire perspective, the decision-making process becomes clearer since you are armed with direct knowledge rather than hearsay.

However, amidst the excitement of visiting different schools, it’s essential to maintain a critical eye and not succumb to peer pressure or popular opinion. While the experiences and recommendations of others can be valuable, they shouldn’t dictate your decision entirely. It’s easy to be swayed by the consensus or reputation of a particular school, but each child is unique, and what works for one may not necessarily work for another.

By remaining open-minded and not being swayed by external perceptions, you may ensure that your decision is in line with your child’s specific requirements and preferences. The goal is to choose a school where your child may prosper academically, socially, and personally.

2. League Table Consistency

Once you’ve familiarized yourself with the schools in your area and created a shortlist, the next step is to research league tables and guidelines to help you make your decision. League tables provide an overview of a school’s success, but they are not the be-all and end-all. Schools’ rankings may change due to a variety of reasons, and a single score does not necessarily convey the complete quality of a school.

When checking league tables, note the consistency of a school’s performance over time. A stable satisfaction level indicates reliability in education delivery. This way, you can make a well-rounded decision considering various aspects of a school’s performance and ethos.

3. Ask Specific Questions

Now it’s time to get down to the nitty-gritty and ask specific questions. Don’t hold back; it’s perfectly acceptable, even necessary, to inquire about every detail that could impact your child’s educational future. Being thorough in your inquiry ensures that you have a good understanding of each school’s offerings and how they relate to your and your child’s needs. It’s better to be well-informed from the start than to discover vital facts later, when it may be too late to make changes.

For example, ask about the extracurricular activities and groups accessible to students. These opportunities play an important part in building a well-rounded education by allowing students to pursue their interests and passions outside the classroom. Enquire about the variety of activities provided, including sports teams and academic clubs, as well as the level of student participation and engagement. In addition, check about class sizes and teaching methods used by the school.

Consider the student-to-teacher ratio for insights into individual attention. Learn about teaching methods to understand lesson delivery, like hands-on activities or collaborative projects. Check school policies on homework and discipline to ensure they match your values, fostering a supportive learning environment. By asking these specific questions, you’ll be equipped to make an informed decision.

4. Check the School Facilities

It’s essential to consider your child’s interests and passions. Take some time to explore what truly excites your child – whether it’s sports, drama, music, or any other hobby. Once you’ve identified their passion, inquire about the facilities the school offers in those specific areas. Are there well-equipped sports fields, a state-of-the-art auditorium for budding performers, or music rooms equipped with instruments?

While modern facilities are not the only factor to consider when selecting a school, they do play an important role in creating a great environment. A school with top-notch facilities upholds a certain standard of excellence.

5. Listen to Your Child’s Opinion

When selecting a school for your child, it is important to include them in the decision-making process. As a parent, it’s easy to depend exclusively on your instincts, but you must resist the urge to dictate what you believe is best for your child. Take the time to truly listen to their ideas and goals for their education. Engage in open discussions with them about the numerous possibilities available, and take their feedback carefully. After all, kids will be spending the next four years at the chosen school, so their viewpoint is important. At the same time, seeking input from other trusted sources can add depth to the decision-making process.

Talking to other parents can also provide valuable insights and recommendations that you might not have considered otherwise. Ultimately, maintain a positive outlook and trust in the collaborative effort between you and your child to make the right decision together.

6. Always Have a Backup Plan

Having backup plans prepared is a wise decision. Even if you’ve made your first choice, remember that the future is unpredictable. Life has a way of presenting us with unanticipated obstacles, and certain situations beyond our control may have an impact on your child’s educational journey. By having a second and even a third school option, you provide yourself a safety net and the ability to adapt if circumstances change.

Choosing the right school is crucial for our children’s future. Yet, not every school fits every child perfectly. Whether they struggle academically, feel out of place, or face social challenges, prioritize your child’s well-being above all else.

Instead of blaming your child or worrying about what others think, focus on addressing any issues that arise. Understand the difference between a settling-in period and when it’s clear the school isn’t the right fit. By recognizing problems and seeking solutions, you prioritize your child’s happiness and growth.

To learn more about the various possible programmes that your child can enroll in, check out our page: IP, IB or ‘O’ Levels. Which Path Should You Take?

What Parents Need to Know About Secondary School Curriculum

curiosg · January 22, 2024 · Leave a Comment

"In 2024, as Secondary 1 students undergo transformative changes with Full Subject-Based Banding, parents play a crucial role in understanding and guiding their child through the new educational landscape."

Secondary 1 students will see a major transformation to their academic landscape starting in 2024. Full Subject-Based Banding (Full SBB) is replacing the traditional Normal (Technical), Normal (Academic), and Express streams. Students will be classified into Posting Groups 1, 2, or 3 based on their academic progress. The improved approach empowers students by offering them additional subject selection options. This article aims to provide valuable insights into the secondary school curriculum for parents who may not yet understand the new education system for Secondary 1 in Singapore.

1. Subjects With a Higher Level of Difficulty

Students in Secondary 1 (Sec 1) begin with subjects based on their overall PSLE score or if they perform well in individual PSLE subjects, they can opt to study them at a more demanding level. Students may also be offered the option to pursue specific subjects at a less difficult level in Sec 1.

At the beginning of Sec 1, eligible students can choose to take English Language, Mother Tongue Languages, Mathematics, and Science at a more challenging level, determined by their PSLE Achievement Level (AL) in each subject. As students proceed beyond the first stage of Sec 1, they may continue to take these subjects at a more demanding level based on their achievement in secondary school. Starting from Secondary 2 (Sec 2), students also have the opportunity to take Humanities subjects (Geography, History, and Literature in English) at a more challenging level. The decision to undertake Humanities at a higher difficulty level will depend on students’ aptitude and interest in these subjects, as determined in Sec 1.

2. Subjects with a Lower Level of Difficulty

Students who previously opted for Foundation level in English, Mathematics, and/or Science during their PSLE but are otherwise eligible for G3 in most subjects when transitioning to secondary school have the option to take these subjects at a less challenging level (i.e., G2) at the start of Secondary 1 (Sec 1).

For students who are find their Mother Tongue Languages (MTL), to be challenging, the option of G1 or G2 MTL is provided. During the first phase of Sec 1, students can choose a less rigorous MTL level depending on specific criteria.

As students proceed beyond the first phases of Sec 1, they have the opportunity to offer subjects at a less demanding level, taking into account their performance and the schools’ complete assessment to balance their academic workload. Students choosing subjects at a less demanding level can subsequently opt for a more challenging level as they enhance their competence and confidence in those subjects. This additional flexibility enables students to adapt their learning experience to their particular abilities and passions.

3. Subjects at Lower Secondary

a. Common Curriculum Subjects

Students in mixed-form classes are going to devote approximately one-third of their curriculum time to a set of six common curriculum subjects. These subjects aim to improve students’ collaborative learning experiences by allowing them to connect and learn with classmates who have a wide range of abilities and interests.

Teachers will employ a variety of teaching techniques to properly cater to the student’s particular needs while acknowledging the different learning demands and paces within the same form of class.

b. Subjects Offered at G1, G2 and G3

English Language, Mother Tongue Languages, Mathematics, Science, and Humanities subjects will be available at G1, G2, and G3 levels. Students will be organized into different classes based on their subject level for each of these subjects.

Starting from the 2024 Secondary 1 (S1) cohort, additional curriculum policy changes will also be introduced to further enhance the learning experience for students:

4. Subjects at Upper Secondary

a. Compulsory Subjects

The subjects that are mandatory in upper secondary include:

English Language
Mother Tongue Languages (MTL)
- Eligible students may offer HMTL instead of MTL
Humanities
- G1 Humanities will comprise Social Studies and one Humanities Exposure Module (HEM) in Geography, History or Literature in English.
- G2/3 Humanities will comprise Social Studies and choice of one elective in Geography, History or Literature in English or Literature in Mother Tongue Languages (offered at G3 only).
Mathematics
Science
- Students offering mainly G1 subjects at upper secondary must offer at least one of the following subjects – Computing or Science.

b. Elective Subjects

Students get to choose subjects that interest them, such as Additional Mathematics, Art, and Design & Technology. Schools will assist them in determining the appropriate level for each subject based on their interests and strengths, taking into account their academic performance and areas for improvement.

c. Other Programmes – Applied Learning Modules (ApLM)

ApLMs are optional courses in practical subjects offered by Polytechnics, ITE, and private organisations. From 2023 onwards, students from Secondary 2 to Secondary 5 can join these modules, and each student can participate in up to 3 ApLM throughout their secondary education.

The New PSLE Sorting Hat: Posting Groups vs Academic Streams

Nadya Sharfina · November 22, 2023 · Leave a Comment

"Breaking new ground in 2024, MOE implements a forward-thinking strategy, classifying Primary 6 students into three groups based on PSLE scores."

Are you a parent or student in Singapore confused about the changes in the education system? The Ministry of Education (MOE) has implemented a new classification system for Primary 6 students. How will the new posting system shape your secondary school experience? Let’s look at how this transition may affect your educational journey and options.

What are Posting Groups?

Starting from the 2024 Secondary 1 batch, MOE will categorise Primary 6 pupils into three groups (1, 2, and 3) based on their Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE) scores. These groups correspond to the Normal (Technical), Normal (Academic), and Express courses.

For instance, Posting Group 3 students, such as those with PSLE scores ranging from four to twenty, will be able to enrol in most Secondary 1 subjects at the G3 level, similar to the existing Express course.

While these posting groups may appear to be new words replacing well-known streams, it will not change students’ secondary school experiences or trajectories. The main goal is to set up students for admission that corresponds with their learning abilities in Secondary 1.

What is the benefit of using posting groups instead of Express, NA and NT?

Students will not be separated into classes based on their posting groups after they arrive at school. Instead, they will be able to choose subjects at various levels based on their performance.

Moreover, instead of categorising students purely based on academic streams, schools will organise heterogeneous form classes. Students in these mixed-ability classrooms will participate in common subjects such as art, music, and physical education, fostering collaboration among those with diverse interests and backgrounds.

The posting groups preserve school accessibility by ensuring a broad mix of students in the classroom with different learning profiles. This strategy prevents schools from establishing the rigid hierarchy of the past.

Students from various posting groups within the same school can now take subjects at the same level as a result of the implementation of comprehensive subject-based banding. This adaptability allows students to pursue their interests without being restricted to specific academic streams.

How to Adjust to Life in Secondary 1

Rebecca Samuel · April 8, 2023 · Leave a Comment

"Then secondary school life begins and it does not seem at all like what anyone expected."

PSLE, the Everest of every primary school student’s life has been defeated, and you and your child are relieved beyond measure. Then secondary school life begins and it does not seem at all like what anyone expected. Double the subjects and triple the work needed to stay on track? CCAs with auditions, seniors who all know what they are doing and teachers who seem to talk too fast. Read on to find out how to detangle, and demystify your child’s new path.

Configure a New Routine

There are more subjects to handle coupled with CCA. The psychological impact of being in a new environment, trying to mingle, fit in and make friends also has to be taken into account. Routines will thus become extremely important in helping your child cope with the added stress. Going to bed and waking up at the same time everyday and specifying what ought to be scheduled after school hours – including time for lunch, rest and play – will make all the difference. Allow your child to have a say in this timetabling as well, and make sure that it is neither too stringent nor too relaxing.

Implement Habits of Mind

Source: Screengrab from teachthought.com

Habits of Mind are dispositions that are mindfully employed by characteristically intelligent, successful people when they are confronted with problems. When we draw upon these mental resources, the results are more powerful, of higher quality, and of greater significance than if we fail to employ those habits. ‘Finding humour’ will help you to relax and take on stresses with some ease. Metacognition or ‘Thinking about your Thinking’ will aid you and your child to be more aware of the way you think and the reasons for why you arrive at a certain conclusion. Try some of them out yourself before introducing them to your child!

Give Your Child a Head Start

Ensure that both you and your child have a nice, relaxing break after PSLE. If you are nervous about some of the new subjects and demands that will arise in Secondary 1 however, find some fun, engaging holiday classes with preparatory lessons for the year ahead. This might assuage some anxiety, so long as it does not involve the stress of ‘mugging’ or a tutor who is obsessed with piling on holiday homework. Check out the classes offered at Curio: https://curio.sg/programmes/

Life in Secondary 1 will be daunting at first, and then the year will fly by and you will both settle into a new phase in your lives. Enjoy the journey!