1. Education System in Singapore
2. Expat Children Admission into Local Schools
3. International Schools
4. Pre-Schools
5. Private Tertiary Education
6. Private Academic Schools
7. Returning Singaporeans

Education System in Singapore

Primary School Education

A child starts studying at Primary One at the age of six and studies for six years. He/she then sits for the Primary School Leaving Examinations (PSLE) before moving on to secondary school for another four or five years. The Primary School Education consists of a 4-year foundation stage from Primary 1 to 4 and a 2-year orientation stage from Primary 5 to 6. The overall aim of primary education is to give students a good grasp of English language, Mother Tongue and Mathematics.

• 6 years of compulsory education

• National examination: Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE)

• Students are encouraged to participate in Co-Curricular Activities (CCAs) and Community Involvement Programme (CIP)

Secondary School Education

Second School Education places students in the Special, Express, Normal (Academic) or Normal (Technical) course according to how they perform at the PSLE. The different curricular emphases are designed to match their learning abilities and interests. In secondary school, he/she can choose- based on his/her examination results to enter in the School Cambridge General Certificate of Education 'Ordinary' (GCE 'O's) level examinations.

• 4-5 years of education

• National examination: GCE ‘O’ Levels (for Special / Express courses) or GCE ‘N’ Levels (for Normal course)

• All students take part in at least one CCA; CCA performance is considered for admission to JCs, CI, polytechnics and ITE

After the secondary level, it's a selection whether to go:

1. Technical (ITE) or commercial institutes (MDIS, MIS, TMC, SIM)

2. Polytechnics (Nanyang, Temasek, Ngee Ann, Singapore Polytechnic) to pursue diploma courses

3. Pre-university centres or junior colleges to prepare for the Senior Cambridge General Certificate of Education 'Advanced' (GCE 'A') level examinations and later on tertiary education

4. Centralised institutions

Pre-University Education

The Pre-U Education prepares students for the GCE "A" Level examination at the end of the 2-year junior college or 3-year centralised institute course. Students who completed their pre-university education will receive aSchool Graduation Certificate.

• 2-3 years of education

• National examination: GCE "A" Levels

• All students take part in at least one CCA. CCA performance is considered for university admission

Tertiary Education

For tertiary education, the National University of Singapore (NUS), the Nanyang Technological University (NTU) and Singapore Management University (SMU) provide a wide choice of courses.

ITE

The primary role of ITE is to ensure that its graduates have the technical knowledge and skills that are relevant to industry. ITE is the national authority for the setting of skills standards and the certification of skills in Singapore.

Polytechnics

Polytechnics were set up with the mission to train middle-level professionals to support the technological and economic development of Singapore. Reflecting the wide range of abilities, aptitudes and interests of their students, the polytechnics seek to train students with relevant and specific skills for the workplace to give Singapore a competitive edge as we move into a knowledge-based economy.

Universities

Singapore's undergraduate university education aspires to prepare students not only for today's world but also for a world where there will be jobs that have yet to be invented and challenges not yet foreseen.

Special Schools

Schools tailored for handicapped children are also available and are mainly operated by managed by private schools/ organisations.

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Expat Children Admission into Local Schools

Expatriates in Singapore on employment / professional visit passes could apply for their children for admission to the government or government-aided schools through the Ministry of Education (MOE). If there are vacancies, they need to obtain student passes from the Immigration Department. School fees in such schools are much lower than in private schools. The students in local schools are usually Singaporean origin whereas students in International Schools consist of students from all over the world. Information and procedure of enrolling into a local school are listed below.

Admission of Foreign Students to Government, Government-aided, Independent Schools, Junior Colleges and Centralised Institute

Applications for school admission of foreign students must be made using the prescribed form obtainable from the foreign student information website or the schools (ie Government/Government-aided/Independent schools/Junior colleges/Centralised institute).

For information on school admission of foreign students, you may visit foreign student information website at http://www.moe.gov.sg/esp/foreign/

For further clarifications, please contact:

- MOE Customer Service Centre at DID (65) 6872 2220, Fax No (65) 6776 4617
- MOE email address at contact@moe.edu.sg    

Part 1: Application Procedure

Step 1 - Apply at school of choice

The parent/guardian submits the completed application form for school admission together with all the necessary original documents directly to a school of choice. For children whose parent(s) are holding S Pass or Work Permit (R Pass), they are required to pass a qualifying test before seeking school admission (see Step A).

Step 2 - School conducts placement test and issues Letter of Acceptance

School will conduct placement test for the applicant if there is a vacancy.

If applicant passes the placement test and the school accepts him/her, the school will issue a Letter of Acceptance (LOA). The LOA will indicate in-principle acceptance of the applicant to the school. The applicant can proceed to ICA to apply for a student's pass with this letter (see Step 3)

Acceptance to the school is subject to the applicant obtaining and returning with a student's pass from Immigration and Checkpoints Authority(ICA) within 2 weeks from date of issue of the LOA.

Applicants who are holding a Dependant's Pass (DP) or an Immigration Exemption Order(IEO) are not required to apply for a student's pass from ICA. He/She can be admitted by the school immediately upon passing the placement test (go to Step 5).

Step 3 - Apply student's pass at ICA

The LOA is valid for 2 weeks from date of issue. Upon receiving the LOA, the applicant should proceed to ICA immediately to apply for a student's pass. Applicant must produce the original LOA endorsed by the School to ICA.

Step 4 - Return to school within 2 weeks with student's pass

The applicant must return to school with a valid student's pass within 2 weeks from the date of the LOA. The applicant will forfeit his/her admission to the school if he/she does not return within 2 weeks.

Step 5 - Donation to the Education Fund

After the applicant has been successfully admitted to the school, the Ministry of Education will send a letter to him/her requesting for the biennial donation to the Education Fund, i.e $1,000 for every 2 years.

Step A - For Children of S Pass and Work Permit (R Pass) Holders Only

Applicants with at least one parent working in Singapore on S Pass or Work Permit (R Pass) must pass a qualifying test (Assessment of General Ability conducted by Civil Service College Consultants) before they can be considered for admission. For more information on this requirement, please refer to Ministry of Manpower's website at http://www.mom.gov.sg.   

Applicants who have not taken the qualifying test can apply online with Civil Service College Consultants at http://www.cscc.gov.sg/gat.htm.

The applicant will receive by post a letter on the Outcome of the Qualifying Test. If the letter shows that he/she is eligible to seek admission to a Singapore school, he/she can then approach a school of choice with the letter to apply for school admission (refer to Step 2).

Part 2: Other Information

1. Application Period

Applications for school admission are accepted by schools subject to availability of vacancies. Application can be made anytime during the year. For admission to Primary One in the following year, the applicant may register with the school of choice during or after Phase 3 of the annual Primary One Registration Exercise (http://www.moe.edu.sg/esp/schadm/p1/).

2. Donation to the Education Fund

A foreign student is requested to make biennial donations (that is, once every two years) to the Education Fund of the Ministry of Education if his/her application to study in Singapore is approved.

Foreign students are requested to make the biennial donations of S$1,000 within the period stated in the Letter of Donation.

Thereafter, foreign students are requested to make the donation in advance every two years. The biennial donations are requested from foreign students of all nationalities who seek admission to schools, junior colleges and centralised institute for the academic year beginning in January each year. The biennial donations replace the previous donation rates ($3,000 for Malaysians and $5,000 for other nationalities) which were requested once at the primary education level and once at the secondary education level.

Foreign students whose parents are Singapore Citizens, Singapore Permanent Residents, or holders of work passes (including P1, P2, Q1, S, R and other work passes), who are admitted from 1 Jan 2001 onwards, are also requested to make the biennial donations to the Education Fund.

The donations to the Education Fund are eligible for tax-exemption and the official receipts will be made in favour of either the donor or the foreign student. The donation is non-refundable except when the foreign student is awarded a Singapore Government Scholarship www.moe.gov.sg/aseanscholarships in the year of admission or when he/she has not attended any lessons in school.

3. Particulars of Guardian

The foreign student is required to provide the particulars of his/her guardian to the school for contact purposes. The guardian should be a Singapore Citizen/Singapore Permanent Resident above 21 years old OR the parent of the foreign student if the parent is working/staying in Singapore.

A foreign student should report any change in guardianship to his/her school principal.

4. Choice of school

Parent/guardian can approach the school of choice directly. Admission is dependent on the availability of vacancies in the school provided there are no Singapore Citizens or Singapore Permanent Residents on the school's waiting list.

5. Placement Test conducted by the school

The foreign student will be tested subjects such as English, Mathematics and Mother Tongue Language (where applicable). The tests are conducted by the school which the foreign student is seeking admission to.

6. Level of Admission

Besides the performance in the school placement test, foreign students will be considered for admission to a level subject to documentary proof that he/she has completed the previous level, and the age criteria. Foreign students who have been admitted at the primary level must complete the Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE) before proceeding to the secondary level.

7. Boarding Facilities

Please refer to the list of boarding schools and hostels. The private hostels are listed in the yellow pages of the Singapore Telephone Directory.

8. Exemption from offering Chinese, Malay or Tamil as a Mother Tongue Language

Exemption from the mother tongue requirement may be considered on a case-by-case basis after the student has been admitted to school. Application for exemption should be made through the school principal, who will refer the application to the Languages & Literature Branch, Ministry of Education, for consideration.

9. Monthly School Fees

For Government and Government-Aided Schools, the monthly rates of school fees payable are S$80 for primary, S$130 for secondary and S$240 for pre-university levels. For children of Singapore Citizens or Singapore Permanent Residents and dependants of Employment Pass and Skilled Work Permit Holders, the monthly school fees payable for the first 2 years are S$3 for primary, S$5 for secondary, and S$6 for pre-university levels. For the third year onwards, the school fees payable will be determined based on their citizenship status.

In addition to school fees, all students are to pay miscellaneous fees. The maximum monthly miscellaneous fees payable are S$11 for primary, S$16 for secondary, and S$22 for pre-university levels. Students studying in Autonomous Schools are also required to pay additional miscellaneous fees. Please check directly with the schools on the actual amount of miscellaneous fees payable.

The rates of school and miscellaneous fees payable are reviewed by the Ministry of Education and individual schools from time to time.

For Independent Schools, the school fees payable varies from school to school. Please check directly with the schools concerned for the fees payable.

10. Admission to Kindergartens, Private Schools, Universities & Polytechnics

A foreign student seeking admission to a kindergarten, private school or an institution of higher education (ie university or polytechnic), should approach the kindergarten, private school or institution directly.

11. General

In accordance with the Immigration Regulations, a foreigner is exempted from applying for a Student's Pass if he/she is a Dependant's Pass or Immigration Exemption Order Holder studying in a Government/Governement-aided/Independent School. For more details on Student's Pass applications, please refer to ICA's website at http://app.ica.gov.sg/serv_visitor/index.asp.

A copy of the "Directory of Schools and Educational Institutions, Singapore" is obtainable from the Customer Service Centre at the Ground Floor, Podium Block, Ministry of Education, at S$3.50 per copy excluding postage. This publication provides the addresses and telephone numbers of all the schools in Singapore. Alternatively, the information may be found in the Schools Information website at http://www.moe.edu.sg/schdiv/sis/

Age Criteria for Admission of Foreign Students

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International Schools

In Singapore, there are many International Schools to choose from. It is compulsory for foreign students studying here to apply for an annual student pass from the Immigration Department. Most of expats' employers pay all or part of the tuition fees for the children of their employees. The fees paid by the company are taxable under the Singapore law. The following is a list of international schools:
 

Stamford American International School (SAIS)

Stamford American International School (SAIS) is a world-class learning institution for children 2 years of age and older. Our school is centered on the ethos of building caring relationships with each child and family. Our child centered philosophy engenders a life-long love of learning and encourages our students to become truly global citizens.

SAIS offers:

ü	Academic Rigor – 21st Century American curriculum enriched by an International accredited program
ü	International – Distinct International ethos offering strong foreign language foundation, ESL and mother tongue support
ü	Experience – A Center of Excellence for learning and teaching
ü	Caring – Centered on the mission of building caring relationships with each child and family

SAIS develops students as adaptive, thoughtful and active global citizens. Our dedicated teachers inspire our students to achieve the highest possible academic standards while focusing on the needs of the individual. We provide an inquiry-based approach to education which engages each student and creates enthusiastic, independent learners.

Our school is accessible to a wide range of students from all nationalities. There is an emphasis on cross-culture communication, and therefore, we offer a strong foreign language foundation starting at a very young age (Spanish & Mandarin). For our students whom English is not the primary language, we provide support through our English as a Second Language (ESL) and mother tongue programs. SAIS core values create a caring and thoughtful community in which diversity is celebrated and respect for self and others is paramount.

SAIS brings together the very best of American and International curricula incorporating world renowned educational principles and practices.

The campus is centrally located to all major expatriate communities in Singapore to allow easy access to public transportation and short commutes for young children.

SAIS is now accepting applications.

For more information please visit our website www.sais.com.sg or contact us at +65 6593 3698.

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Avondale Grammar School

Avondale Grammar School is a small, international school which offers personal attention and a nurturing environment for children 3-12 years.

Our intimate class sizes and amazing teacher to student ratios (1:11 in all morning sessions for K-Yr2) allow our teachers to extend children in their talents and support them in areas of need. We follow the Australian curriculum and include daily Mandarin lessons.

Avondale Preschool is now open, offering a play-based learning philosophy for children 3 to 5 years.

At Avondale we strive for more than academic excellence, we aim to instill a lifelong love of learning in all our students.

We invite you to bring your child to spend a trial day in their actual classroom, obligation free, and they’ll experience the caring and positive learning environment all Avondale children enjoy.

Tel: 62 588 544

Visit: www.avondalegs.com.sg

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Emaar International School

With students from close to 60 nations, EIS offers a truly international experience!

The EIS Nursery Programme is an early learning center with a child centered program in which the individual needs, abilities, and interests of the child are met.
Our curriculum does not concentrate solely on academic achievements, but on the physical, emotional and social development needs of children at the pre-school age level.

EIS is an International Baccalaureate PYP candidate school for students from Kindergarten to Grade 5 and delivers the Cambridge Lower Secondary Programme in Grades 6 and 8.
This then prepares students for the Cambridge IGCSE examinations in Grade 9 and 10. In high school, students can then pursue the IB Diploma.

Since its inception in 2007, EIS has successfully enrolled over 400 students. The target is to double enrolment figures by next year and reach its full capacity of 1,500 students by 2010 to meet the increasing education needs of the children of expatriates relocating to Singapore.

The 470,000 sq ft campus at 201 Ulu Pandan Road has facilities to support all academic and co-curricular programs for students. These include swimming pools, gymnasiums, sports fields, and science, computer and multi-media laboratories.

EIS has a team of highly qualified international educators delivering a well-balanced curriculum based on the best standards and practices used around the world.

EIS is a member of the Council of International Schools, Cambridge International Examination Board (IGCSE) and is an authorized school for the IBDP programme.


Emaar International School
201 Ulu Pandan Road Singapore 596468
Call 1800 RAFFLES, 1800 723 3537 or +65 6536 6566
Fax : +65 6536 6866 Email : enquiries@eis.edu.sg
www.eis.edu.sg
 

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Canadian International School (Singapore)

The Canadian International School has long held a position of pre-eminence in the education of children in the International Schools market of Singapore and Asia. This standing has been earned through years of successful practice and a firm footing on the latest research on effective teaching methodologies tailored for the global student.

The Canadian International School, Singapore, provides the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme and Diploma Programme of Education, from Early Child Education to Grade 12. We are also accredited by the Ontario Ministry of Education, Canada. Our graduates receive the Ontario Secondary Diploma or the IB Diploma, both of which are recognised around the world by major universities. We are also very pleased to be an associate member in the Council of International Schools (CIS). This prestigious designation puts us in the forefront of education leaders in the world.

Our student body draws from nearly fifty countries and is well served by teachers of excellent quality and our comprehensive and challenging curriculum. Our focus at every grade is the needs of each individual learner. Our students pursue excellence in the mastery of creative problem solving, effective communication, leadership, international understanding, and responsible citizenship.

The Canadian International School currently has four campuses in Singapore.
 

Website: www.cis.edu.sg
Email: admissions@cis.edu.sg

Canadian International School

Tanjong Katong Campus (East)
Early Childhood to Grade 8
371 Tanjong Katong Road, Singapore 437128
Tel: (65) 6345 1573 Fax: (65) 6345 4057

Elementary Campus
Early Childhood to Grade 3
5 Toh Tuck Road, Singapore 596679.
Tel: (65) 6467 1732 Fax: (65) 6467 1729

Middle School Campus
Grades 4 to 8
71 Bukit Tinggi Road, Singapore 289759
Tel: (65) 6875 1519 Fax: (65) 6875 1516

High School Campus
Grades 9 to 12
514 Kampong Bahru Road, Singapore 099450
Tel: (65) 6323 0208 Fax: (65) 6323 0209

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One World International School

One World International School, Singapore is a newly opened, world-class school for students between the age of 3 and 11 years. We are phasing in secondary years from August 2009.

Our inquiry-based, international curriculum appeals to families of all nationalities and backgrounds. Additionally, we are committed to tailoring our programs to reflect the individual needs of our culturally diverse students.

At One World International School, Singapore, we firmly believe that every child is special and has the potential to become a talented and extraordinary individual.

• Our aim is to transform students into individuals who are motivated to think, question and adapt, and we encourage growth through active learning.

• We impart world-class education, promote academic excellence and encourage a spirit of harmony, social consciousness and a concern for the environment.

At One World your child will receive every educational opportunity, have access to high quality facilities and resources, and will be guided and supported by teachers who are highly qualified with international experience.

We also encourage you, as parents, to be involved in the education of your child through fostering strong school-parent relationships.

Overview of facilities and resources:
 

ü	Daily Mandarin lessons for all students
ü	Integrated Co-Curricular Activities available to all students
ü	Multi-purpose Auditorium/Gymnasium
ü	Courts for Basketball, Volleyball, Tennis and Badminton
ü	Extensive playing fields and grounds
ü	ICT integrated into all classrooms including “Smartboards” and computers
ü	Digitalised library
ü	Dedicated rooms for Art, Music and the Performing Arts
ü	Daily support for ESL students
ü	Support for first language
ü	Small class sizes
ü	Short Day Program for Early Childhood (3-4 year olds)
ü	Secondary years phased in from August 2009
ü	Free School Bus service (terms & conditions apply)

One World International School, Singapore is located on the East Coast and is within easy access of public transport and main expressways.

At One World International School, Singapore, we don’t just teach students, we create Global Citizens.

For more information please visit us at www.oneworldinternational.org

696 Upper Changi Road East 486826
Tel: 65422285

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Rosemount Kindergarten

Established in 1999, Rosemount Kindergarten is Singapore's leading international school for children aged 3 to 6.

Providing schooling at the Preschool, Kindergarten and Early Primary levels, with one of the lowest child to teacher ratios in Singapore; Rosemount values and promotes quality early childhood education.

The school curriculum, which is designed to cater for all nationalities, is based on the International Baccalaureate Early Years Program.

Understanding the important role that teachers play in delivering quality education to children, Rosemount maintains that only qualified, experienced and passionate teachers are employed at the school.

Additionally, our family orientated approach to education means that children attending Rosemount learn in a caring and safe environment; and parents become an active participant in their child's development and the school.

For more information about Rosemount Kindergarten, visit our website at www.rosemountkindergarten.com

Rosemount Kindergarten
Telephone: +65 6446 4636
Address: 25 Ettrick Terrace, Siglap, Singapore 458588
Email: school@rosemount.com.sg
Website: www.rosemountkindergarten.com

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EtonHouse International School

The EtonHouse International School at Broadrick Road on the East Coast started operations in 1995. It is an authorized IB world school offering places from Nursery 2 to year 6. The curriculum follows the International Baccalaureate (IB) philosophy of inquiry-based learning using a child-responsive, play-based, “inquire, think, learn” pedagogy for the Early Years Programme (Nursery to Kindergarten) and British National Curriculum for primary children.

EtonHouse offers an extensive language programme including Mandarin as both a mother-tongue and 2nd language. Japanese, Hindi and English as an Additional Language are also offered. The Second Language Programme equips children with excellent foundation language skills. The Pre-Sap Bilingual Mandarin programme offers afternoon immersion classes in Mandarin.

With extensive grounds for sports and recreation, EtonHouse offers quality music, art and sports programmes provided by specialist teachers. At EtonHouse International School, the well-being and overall development of every student is paramount. All students are supported in their academic, emotional, social and physical development in an environment which promotes respect, trust and positive encouragement.

EtonHouse Orchard is an international pre-school. The school is an IB PYP (International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme) Candidate School. Its sprawling environment in the heart of the city is a beautifully designed and landscaped property. The outdoor environment has been planned to engage children in experiences that are in the natural setting with platforms for reading or dramatic play situated in the midst of greenery. The curriculum focusses on inquiry based learning through the provision of a physical environment that stimulates the children's thinking in a socio-cultural context. The strong teaching team at Orchard works closely with parents and children to document children’s learning through portfolios and documentation that makes teaching and learning visible.

51, Broadrick Road, Singapore-439501, 63466922
2, Orchard Boulevard, Singapore-248643, 62523322
enquiry@etonhouse.com.sg, www.etonhouse.com.sg

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Chinese International School Singapore (IB World School)

CNIS is a multicultural international school from pre-kindergarten to high school, established on the solid foundations of the IB Programme. We combine Eastern and Western philosophies of education and a spirit of open-mindedness. This culminates how we teach your toddler, child or young adult. We empower students to develop sound learning techniques, as well as critical thinking skills and creativity. Although CNIS started as a bicultural school, our internationally qualified teachers are currently meeting the diverse needs of children and teens from all over the world.

Nestled in a picturesque neighborhood along Bukit Timah Road, our 5 hectare campus boasts state- of-the-art computer facilities, science laboratories, two gymnasiums, indoor Jungle-Gym play area for children, football field, Squash court, basketball court, and cafeteria. As well as new air conditioned dormitories for boarding students with campus wide wireless internet and cleaning and laundry services; complete with 24 hour adult supervision as well as security staff. Moreover, CNIS’ well-rounded educators from the U.K., South Africa, U.S., Canada, Australia, Mainland China and several other countries, to name but a few, reflect the philosophy of internationalization in the IB Programme.

Our mission at CNIS is to cultivate international talent with a global vision, and to enable students to become bilingual at a highly functioning level, while integrating the best of Eastern and Western educational philosophies. Studying in the best universities throughout the world, CNIS’ IB Diploma Programme graduates engender a spirit of humanism as well as the basic precepts of a civil society.

Although some students may not be able to meet the rigorous demands of the IB Diploma, students of mixed learning abilities will have many opportunities for success through a CNIS diploma, an IB Certificate, and numerous in-house awards for service and academics.

CNIS is an IB authorized world school. We will begin teaching the Diploma programme September 2007. We are currently working towards IB implementation at all levels, molding our curricula to meet the demands of IB PYP (Primary Years), MYP (Middle Years) to feed into our DP (Diploma) Programme.

Please contact our Admission Office for more information: -
Address: 60 Dunearn Road S309434
Phone No: (65) 6254 0200
Fax No: (65) 6252 5120
Website: www.cnis.edu.sg 
Email: cuischool@gmail.com

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Australian International School

The Australian International School offers primary and secondary education. The system here is fully accredited by the New South Wales Board of Studies. It offers the New South Wales curriculum from kindergarten to year twelve when the student sits for the Higher School Certificate (HSC). The school year is divided into two semesters and four terms, starting from February and ending in December. They also runs a pre-school for children three to four years of age.

Address: 1 Lorong Chuan Singapore 556818
Phone No: (65) 6883 5155 Fax No: (65) 6285 5255

Chatsworth International School

Chatsworth International School certainly started as a very small acorn when it opened its doors to just one student in January 1995. However, that little acorn quickly took root and flourished - resulting in three Chatsworth campuses: Chatsworth Kindergarten in Jalan Kayu which is a locally registered Kindergarten with an international perspective; an international Kindergarten and Elementary School in Jalan Tembusu, Katong, which is an IB candidate school; and a full Kindergarten to High School campus in Emerald Hill, just off Orchard Road, which offers an international curriculum.

All three campuses share a common mission: to inspire, educate and enlighten in a nurturing and supportive child-centered environment. With a strong pastoral programme underpinning a well-balanced and comprehensive curriculum, the Chatsworth Group of Schools provides excellence in education.

Orchard Campus
37 Emerald Hill Road
Singapore 229313
Tel:  (65) 6737 5955
Fax: (65) 6737 5655

The Orchard Campus comprises Kindergarten, Elementary and Secondary Schools.

East Campus
25 Jalan Tembusu
Singapore 438234
Tel:  (65) 6344 5955
Fax: (65) 6346 5565

Chatsworth East caters to the educational needs of students from a wide range of nationalities, aged 3 to 11 years. They have a maximum class size of 20 and we are implementing a curriculum based on the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme.

Jalan Kayu Campus
1 Jalan Kayu
Singapore 799433
Tel:  (65) 6481 5585
Fax: (65) 6481 5565

Chatsworth Kindergarten at Jalan Kayu Campus has grown from the base of Chatsworth International School. Registered as a local kindergarten with the Singapore Ministry of Education, Chatsworth Kindergarten is able to provide the 'best of both worlds' as a modern, locally registered kindergarten with an international foundation.

Dover Court Preparatory School

An English medium international school for children aged three to fifteen years, Dover Court delivers a British based curriculum adapted to the needs of international students. The school emphasizes individual development and self-discipline.

In addition to its mainstream classes, English as a Second Language groups are provided for children who have no English or whose English is limited.

The school also offers a Centre for Special Education where children with a range of handicapping conditions share their learning, emphasising on equal opportunities for integrating with mainstream students. Specially trained teachers, speech therapists, an occupational therapist, a physiotherapist and a psychologist work together to provide individual programmes of work. These specialists are also available to serve the needs of mainstream children when required.
This school emphasises on the importance on each students' personal and social development knowing each individual is different.

Address : 301 Dover Road Singapore 139644 
Phone No: (65) 67757664 Fax No: (65) 67774165

German European School Singapore

 
GESS provides international education in both German and English from Pre-School to Grade 12 to 1,200 students of 35 nationalities, With caring, experienced international staff and 2 green, modern and environmentally friendly campuses, GESS focuses on holistic, student-centred learning encouraging students to develop their strengths and become balanced, responsibie and informed world citizens.

With its 1 school – 2 system philosophy, GESS is an authorised IB World school for PYP, MYP and IB Diploma programmes which are taught in English, in addition to offering all German school leaving certificates.

As the first German school worldwide, GESS was accredited as an official "Excellent German School Abroad" in January 2009.

Address : 72 Bukit Tinggi Road, Singapore 289760
Phone No: (65) 6469 1131 Fax No: (65) 6469 0308
Website: www.gess.sg Email: info@gess.sg

Hollandse School

The Hollandse School offers classes for children from age four to 12. Medium of instruction used is Dutch while English is taught in the primary school. All the teachers here are trained in Holland. The school year is divided into three terms, starting from August and running through to June the following year.

Address : 65 Bukit Tinggi Road Singapore 289757 
Phone No: (65) 64660662 Fax No: (65) 64677582

International Community School

International Community School
27A Jubilee Road
Singapore 128575
Tel: 6776-7435
Fax: 6776-7436
Website - www.ics.edu.sg

ISS International School

ISS International School Singapore is an authorized International Baccalaureate (IB) World School with a multicultural environment, catering to students from Kindergarten through to Grade 12, providing the full IB curriculum. A wide variety of international curriculum including IGCSE and the American High School Diploma - is taught by highly qualified teachers within small classes. ISS is also accredited by the Western Association of School and Colleges (WASC), USA.

Address: High School - 21 Preston Rd, Singapore 109355
Phone No: (65) 6475 4188 Fax No: 6273 7065
Admissions Office: (65) 6470 0113/4
Address: Elementary and Middle School - 25 Paterson Rd, Singapore 238510
Phone No: (65) 6235 5844 Fax No: 6732 5701

The Japanese School

The Japanese School provides academic courses at primary and secondary levels on three different campuses at Clementi, Changi and West Coast Road. The school has an open admission policy with no restriction on intake of students. The medium of instruction is Japanese but some subjects are taught in English. Most of the staff are Japanese teachers sent by the Japanese government on a three-year tour of duty while some are recruited from Singapore.

School Term

1^st Term - 1 Apr - 31 July
2^nd Term - 1 Aug - 31 Dec
3^rd Term - 1 Jan - 31 Mar

Address : 201 West Coast Road Singapore 127383 
Phone No: (65) 67797355 Fax No: (65) 67789710

Lycée Français de Singapour

Aka Ecole Francais de Singapour. The education programme offered here is drawn by the French Ministry of Education. It is opened to all the French nationals or French-speaking students. It provides kindergarten to Baccalaureate level (pre-university). The medium of instruction used is French with English, German or Spanish taught as a second language. All the teachers are certified in France.

Address: 3000 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 3, Singapore 569928
Phone No: (65) 6488 1160 Fax No : (65) 6487 2821

Overseas Family School (OFS)

OFS provides a modern education in the English language for overseas families living in Singapore. Classes start from kindergarten to high school level. It offers the International Baccalaureate and the school is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, California, USA.

Address: 25F Paterson Road Singapore 238515
Phone No: (65) 67380211 Fax No: (65) 67338825

Sekolah Indonesia

The curriculum of the Indonesian School is based on directives from the Indonesian Ministry of Education. It provides academic courses up to pre-university level and is open to students whose parents are Indonesian nationals, who are the home staff of the embassy, and Indonesian state-owned enterprises based in Singapore. The medium of instruction is Bahasa Indonesian with English as the second language.

Address : 20A Siglap Road Singapore 455859 
Phone No: (65) 64480722 Fax No: (65) 64444831

Tanglin Trust School

Tanglin Trust School has roots that go back to 1925 and is currently at the forefront of innovative British-style education in South East Asia.

Tanglin Trust School provides British-based schooling for expatriate students aged 3 to 18. Students wishing to enter the School must be proficient speakers of English and display the intellectual capacity to fully participate in and benefit from the School's curriculum. Tanglin Trust School does not provide boarding facilities, so students must be living in Singapore with their families.

Waiting lists exist for most year groups so parents are encouraged to apply early for a place at the School. Places are allocated according to a student's position on his or her allocated waiting list. The School is academically non-selective.

Tanglin Trust School is predominantly, both in style and organisation, a British school. While encouraging a mix of nationalities in the student body, a quota exists within the student enrolment system to maintain the proportion of students from Britain at between 60 and 70 percent. Nationality is determined on the basis of the passport held by the student and at least one parent.

Students at Tanglin Trust School, aged between 3 and 18, study an English-based curriculum in the Infant, Junior and Senior Schools. The school currently have almost 2,000 students at Tanglin with approximately 660 in the Infant School, 760 in the Junior School and 580 in the Senior School. Boys and girls in the Infant, Junior and Senior Schools each wear a different style of uniform from the integrated School uniform range.

Infant School students are aged between 3 and 7 and the curriculum they follow is the Foundation Stage followed by Key Stage 1. Students in the Junior School, aged between 7 and 11, follow Key Stage 2. Students in the Senior School, including those in the Sixth Form, are aged 11 to 18 years and they study Key Stages 3, 4 and 5.

Address:
Tanglin Trust School Ltd
Portsdown Road
Singapore 139299
General Enquiries :
Tel: (65) 67780771
Fax: (65) 67775862

The Singapore American School (SAS)

SAS offers an American Education for expatriate students  living in Singapore. Its curriculum is based on the American system incorporating the latest trends in American education and is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. The high school programme fulfills the entry requirements for most American universities and colleges. It offers honour and special needs programmes, advanced placement courses and a host of extra-curricular activities. The elementary and middle school cater to students from pre-school (age three) to grade eight. They also provide ESL for non-English-speaking students. 

Address : 40 Woodlands Street 41 Singapore 738547 
Phone No: (65) 63633403 Fax No: (65) 63633408

The Swiss School Singapore

The Swiss School offers programmes for children from 3 1/2 - 16 years old. Medium of instruction is German and all teachers are trained in either Switzerland or Germany. The school year is divided into three terms, starting in September through to July the following year. They also conduct religious classes for the students.

Address : 38 Swiss Club Road Singapore 288140 
Phone No: (65) 64682117 Fax No: (65) 64665342

United World College of South East Asia

The United World College of South East Asia (UWCSEA) is a member of the United World College (UWC) Movement which comprises ten non-profit making colleges around the world. The emphasis in a UWC education is upon service, cultural and political sensitivity and all round achievement in both the academic and activity areas.

The area of the college campus is 11 hectares (27 acres), is located in a prime area of Singapore and has extensive new facilities. There are almost 250 full- and part- time teachers from 25 nationalities. UWCSEA offers boarding facilities for up to 194 students age 11 to 18.

Address: 1207 Dover Road, Singapore 139654
Phone No: (65) 6775 5344 Fax No: (65) 6778 5846

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Preschools

Odyssey Creative Learning Centre

The Odyssey Creative Learning Centre represents an exceptional new level of quality preschool education through experiment, exploration and experiential learning for children aged 18 months to 6 years.

The curriculum design is inspired by the most innovative and internationally acclaimed teaching pedagogy from around the world; United States, United Kingdom, Australia and the Reggio Emilia educational practices from Northern Italy.

Our curriculum goal focuses on experience-centered and problem-based experiences nurturing children to become active, competent and self-directed learners, challenging them to engage their minds, hearts and hands to learn.

Uniquely at the Odyssey, the teaching team comprises Curriculum Specialist equipped with Degrees in preschool education; Teacher who has a teaching diploma in early childhood education and a Specialist Teacher in art, music or language. They are led by the Center Director to plan and implement the curriculum for each class.

The Odyssey environment is a living place; a place for learning, exploring, discovering, investigating, caring and nurturing. We provide a stimulating environment with state-of-the arts facilities and equipment that are designed to promote a holistic, creative and technological-enriched program for children. Our landscaped outdoor learning centres allow children to extend learning to the natural environment which will enrich their senses and promote multi-sensorial learning.

Classrooms are spacious learning labs that promote individualization, personalization, innovation and creativity. Selected learning labs have an adjacent observation room with one-way windows that allow parents to observe their children without being seen.

Come and visit any of our Odyssey centres. Speak to our Curriculum Specialists or Teachers and see first hand why there is no better place to begin your child's learning journey.

School Address:

110 Alexandra Road
Tel: (65) 6479 4120
101 Wilkinson Road
Tel: (65) 6348 8800
Email: enquiries@theodyssey.com
Website: www.theodyssey.com

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Raffles Montessori Pte Ltd

The word “Montessori” is not a tradename. Anyone can use the name for anything they want. Many non-Montessori schools have used the name to capitalize on public interest in Montessori. But, Raffles Montessori Kindergarten, initiated by members of the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI - website:www.montessori-ami.org) is registered with the Ministry of Education in Singapore for the delivery of a genuine (non-localised) Montessori early childhood curriculum in the act of disseminating information on the Montessori philosophy and approach.

The school set-up is within the AMI international school accreditation standard and all directresses are AMI-trained. The beautiful, spacious and conducive classroom environment is prepared for children in mixed-age groups of 18 mos-3 yrs and 3-6 yrs old. The school is facilitated with a large outdoor open playground, children reception and indoor play area, lunch area, high quality child-sized furniture and a complete set of specially-designed, authentic Montessori materials placed in sequential order of the curriculum in each classroom. Children are given freedom of movement in the classroom within limits. Each child progresses at his or her own pace and daily observations are noted by the directress, considering the lessons presented individually or in small groups, physical abilities, interest, motivation, etc. A child can advance as far as abilities allow, and in a non-competitive atmosphere that helps to cultivate his or her own natural desire for learning.

School operates daily from Monday to Friday in sessions of 8.30am – 11.30am; 8.30am – 3.30pm; 10.30am – 1.30pm; 10.30am – 3.30pm and 12.30pm – 3.30pm. School transport can be arranged.

School Address: No.95 Telok Kurau Road, Singapore 423797
(off East Coast Rd, opposite East Shore Hospital)
Email: fansida@pacific.net.sg
Tel: (65) 6841-1111
Website: www.themontessorigallery.com.sg

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White Lodge Early Learning Centre (WLELC)

White Lodge Early Learning Centre (WLELC) offers quality pre-school education from the ages 18 months – 6 and a half years. WLELC has 260 students from 16 nationalities and admits students from Playgroup to Kindergarten. It offers a comprehensive curriculum based on the most up-to-date education practices and revolves around guided, play-based practices. Thus its low teacher child ratio of 1:6.

WLELC emphasises on each child individually so that they grow in understanding, awareness and responsibility. Sessions run daily from 9.15am to 12.15am or 9.15am to 2.15pm with a choice of 2, 3 or 5 day placement.

Address: 39 Linden Drive, Singapore 288712
Tel: (65) 6468 8846 Fax: (65) 6762 0215
Website: www.white-lodge.org
Email: wlelc@singnet.com.sg

Preschools at Bukit Timah

Cherrybrook Kindergarten
Address: 5 Vanda Road, Singapore 287775
Tel: (65) 6468 6550

German European School Singapore
Address : 72 Bukit Tinggi Road, Singapore 289760
Tel: (65) 6469 1131

Raffles House Preschool Pte Ltd
Address: 1 Robin Drive, Singapore 258261
Tel: (65) 6732 1455

Preschools at Holland

Buttercups Montessori Kindergarten Pte Ltd
Address: 37 Grove Lane, Singapore 279029
Tel: (65) 6462 4838

Faith Montessori Centre
Address: 4 Moonbeam Walk, Singapore 277219
Tel: (65) 6465 2751

Nanyang Kindergarten
Address: 118 Kings Road, Singapore 268155
Tel: (65) 6466 3375

NTUC Childcare Centre
Address: 170 Ghim Moh Road #03-03 Ulu Pandan Community Building,
Singapore 279621
Tel: (65) 6468 3725

St James’ Church Kindergarten
Address: 1 Leedon Road, Singapore 267878
Tel: (65) 6468 7609

Preschools at East Coast

Raffles Montessori Pte Ltd
Address: No.95 Telok Kurau Road, Singapore 423797
Tel: (65) 6841 1111

Christ Methodist Church Kindergarten
Address: 597 East Coast Road, Singapore 429082
Tel: (65) 6344 8823

Schoolhouse By The Bay
Address: 51 Kampong Arang Road, Singapore 438178
Tel: (65) 63458258

NTUC Childcare Centre
Address: 1 Haig Road #01-555, Singapore 430001
Tel: (65) 6846 3065

Learning Tree Preschool Pte Ltd
Address: 26A Ulu Siglap, Singapore 457184
Tel: (65) 6242 9975

Preschools at West Coast

Ellas Kindergarten Pte Ltd
Address: 12 West Coast Walk #02-16 West Coast Recreation Centre,
Singapore 127157
Tel: (65) 6778 1293

Japanese Kindergarten (Singapore) Pte Ltd
Address: 251 West Coast Road, Singapore 127390
Tel: (65) 6779 3434 / (65) 6776 2930

Tanglin Trust School Limited
Address: Portsdown Road, Singapore 139294
Tel: (65) 67703171

TownforKids Pte Ltd
Address: 10 Ayer Rajah Crescent, Singapore 139940
Tel: (65) 6776 1888

Preschools at North

Kinderland Preschool
Address: 449 Yio Chu Kang Road, Singapore 805946
Tel: (65) 6483 2261

Modern Montessori Preschool Centre
Address: Block 750 Woodlands Avenue 4, #01-317, Singapore 730750
Tel: (65) 6369 0700

Sonrise Preschool
Address: 2 Kovan Road #01-01 Simon Plaza, Singapore 548008
Tel: (65) 6285 5911

Jansen Preschool
Address: 39 Jansen Rd, Singapore 548441
Tel: (65) 6487 6116

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Private Tertiary Education

American College

The American College offers a two-year Liberal Arts curriculum which is fully accredited to and leads to an Association of Arts degree from Broward Community College in Florida. The courses here are also transferable to American colleges and universities towards a Bachelor's Degree.

Address : 12 Prince Edward Rd #01-03 Bestway Building Singapore 079212 
Phone No: (65) 6223 4566 Fax No: (65) 6223 4533

Marketing Institute of Singapore (MIS)

MIS is the national body for marketing professionals. They run many courses for popular universities including Curtin University of Technology and The University of Strathclyde, which are mainly marketing courses, also MBA and Master of Business (International Marketing).

Address : 1 Pasir Panjang Road BP House Singapore 118479 
Phone No: (65) 62217788 Fax No: (65) 62238785

NUS Department of Extramural Studies

The Department of Extramural Studies is one of the non-faculty departments of the National University of Singapore. It offers a wide range of courses which are open to the general public -- Computer & Technology, Business Studies, Language & Literature, Asian & Foreign Languages, Personal Enrichment course, etc. Conducted mainly in English and Mandarin, these are non-examinable courses, and as such, do not lead to any formal certification. There are no entrance pre-requisites for admission to the courses, unless spelt out in the course information.

Address : 10 Kent Ridge Crescent Singapore 119260 
Phone No: (65) 67756666 Fax No: (65) 67786371

LASALLE-SIA College Of The Arts

This college specialises in professional and academic training in the Fine Arts with Diplomas of Licentiate awarded with completion of a four-year course.

Address : 90 Goodman Road Singapore 439053 
Phone No: (65) 63444300 Fax No: (65) 63465708

Singapore Institute of Management (SIM)

SIM, an independent, not-for-profit professional organisation founded in 1964, is dedicated to enhancing managerial and organisational effectiveness in Singapore. The school offers many programmes which are tailored for working executives. Mainly degree and Masters degree courses as well as self-improvement courses.

Address : 461 Clementi Road Singapore 599491 
Phone No: (65) 1800 4688866 Fax No: (65) 64680779

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Private Academic Schools

MOE registers private schools, the courses they offer and the teachers conducting the registered courses. To be registered, prospective private school operators need to fulfill the requirements as laid out in the information notes for the setting up and registration of private schools. As all private schools are owned by private entities, the operators themselves are responsible for the management and administration of their schools and courses.

San Yu Adventist School

Address: 299 Thomson Road , Singapore 307652
Tel: 62566840 Fax: 62566842 Email: sdas@pacific.net.sg 
Supervisor: Danson Ng Kim Yam

Singapore Sports School

Address: 1 Champions Way , Singapore 737913
Tel: 67660100 Fax: 67662100 Email: enquire@sportsschool.edu.sg 
Supervisor: Lim Soo Hoon (Ms)

St. Francis Methodist School (Private)

Address: 492 Upper Bukit Timah Road , Singapore 678095
Tel: 67600889 Fax: 67608031/ 67608032 Email: sfmsadmin@sfms.edu.sg 
Supervisor: Low Wee Ping

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Returning Singaporeans

The Pupil Placement Section (PPS) of the Ministry of Education (MOE) advises Singaporean expatriates on matters relating to their children’s education and assists them in the placement of their children in Singapore schools upon their return. As a returning Singaporean expatriate you could also apply directly to the principal of the school to which you wish your children to be admitted.

Rejoining your Child's Former School

Students who are planning to go overseas but wish to rejoin their former schools upon their return to Singapore can apply for Leave of Absence.

The Leave of Absence scheme was introduced in 1999 assist in the re-entry of students who accompany their parents in their overseas postings. It is open to children who are Singapore citizens or Permanent Residents. Your child/ children would be allowed to apply for Leave of Absence from a primary school until the end of Primary 6, from a secondary school till the end of Secondary 4 or 5 (whichever is applicable) or a pre-university institution till the end of JC 2 or Pre-U 3 (whichever is applicable).

Once the student is granted the Leave of Absence, a placement in the school would be made available to him when he returns, provided that the Leave of Absence is renewed and payment is made yearly.

Admission / Re-admission to Primary Schools

There are two categories, as follows:

• Singaporean expatriates with children who are due to enter Primary 1 should register their child/ children while overseas during the Primary 1 Registration Exercise opened July/August every year.

• Once the child/ children has been allocated a place, parents may apply for Leave of Absence for their child if they are not due to return when school starts in the new academic year.

Parents can obtain such forms at the Singapore embassies, High Commissions, Singapore clubs overseas and MOE website.

Other Primary Levels

If parents require assistance with the school placement, they may submit the “Application form for school placement” 6 months in advance. The purpose of this application is to facilitate the PPS to process requests in time for the children to start school as soon as possible upon their return to Singapore.

Otherwise, parents could also approach the school of their choice directly to seek admission for their child/ children.

PPS will try to find the pupil a place in the school of choice. Should there be no allocation is the preferred school, it will do its best to place the pupil in other schools.

Admission / Re-admission to Secondary Schools and Junior Colleges

As returning students may possibly re-enter Singapore schools at different times of the school year, principals have the right to decide on a case-by-case basis if the pupils should be exempted from any examinations and put on a promotion to the next level.

• Such admission will be subjected to the provision of documentary proof that the student has completed the previous level, and subjected to the student meeting the age criteria for that level.

• Students seeking admission to a pre-university course should produce their GCE ‘O’ Level results transcripts or certificate or its equivalent for assessment of eligibility.

• Admission is also dependent on the availability of vacancy in the school or the preferred junior college and MOE does not guarantee students in the placement of their preferred schools and institutions.

There are two categories of admission :

Admission to Top Secondary Schools or Junior Colleges

• Returning Singapore citizens and Singapore Permanent Residents who would like to apply for the admission to any of the top 30 secondary schools and junior colleges will have to sit for a Centralised Qualifying Test (CQT). A list of the schools with this requirement can be found in the MOE website.

• To qualify it also depends on the student’s performance in the CQT and the availability of placement in the school or junior college. On top of that, the school or junior college may want the applicant to sit for its own assessment tests in English, Mathematics and the Mother Tongue Language. The tests are to ascertain the student’s eligibility for the level, stream and class to which the student is requesting for entry.

• Successful applicants will receive a Letter of Eligibility which then permit them to look for vacancies in the preferred top schools. Unsuccessful applicants could approach schools or junior colleges that are not in the top 30 list. This Letter of Eligibility will be sent out within 7 days after the student has sat for the test.

• All applications for the test have to reach MOE at least 7 days in advance of the preferred test date. The application form can be found at its website. Applicants can complete the form and test fee and then have them submitted - with a copy of the student’s Birth Certificate or not, Identity Card, Entry Permit/Re-entry Permit to the MOE Customer Service Centre.

Admission to Other Secondary Schools or Junior Colleges

• Students seeking entry to schools or junior colleges that are not in the top 30 list need not sit for CQT. They can approach these schools.

• Otherwise, for admission to a secondary school, the parent or guardian could apply through PPS for school placement if they require any assistance.

Immersion Programmes

Provisions could be arranged for students return to Singapore during their holidays to attend classes in Singapore schools. This immersion program is to ease their re-entry into the school system. Parents who are working overseas and who would like to have their children to join in the immersion programs can contact the PPS for assistance or to the preferred school.


For more information, please contact:

Customer Service Centre
Ministry of Education
Ground Floor, Podium Block
1 North Buona Vista Drive, Singapore 138675
Tel : (65) 6872 2220
Fax : (65) 6775 4487, (65) 6776 8616
Email : moe_returnhome@moe.gov.sg
Website: www.moe.edu.sg

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