Focused on Creativity, Not Exams: Chan Chun Sing Reveals Revamped High Ability Programmes

Singapore’s education landscape is changing, and if you’re a parent, this is news you can’t afford to miss. On Tuesday, September 10, Minister for Education Chan Chun Sing laid out the vision for revamped high-ability programmes, aimed at sparking curiosity and creativity rather than boosting exam scores.

But what does this really mean for your child?

Chan Chun Sing Explains: It’s Not About Exam Scores

If you’re worried these new programmes are just another way to push kids ahead of the mainstream curriculum—think again! Minister Chan Chun Sing made it clear: “Neither is the aim to introduce higher subject levels ahead of time.”

Instead, the focus is on developing your child’s passions and fostering a genuine love for learning. For parents, this marks a refreshing change.

We all want our kids to enjoy school without the pressure to cram for exams, right?

More Opportunities, More Fun

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Here’s where it gets interesting.

Starting with next year’s Primary 1 cohort, 10 per cent of students will have access to school-based high-ability programmes. That’s a big leap from the current 1 per cent who qualify for the Gifted Education Programme (GEP).

And these programmes aren’t just for the “best test-takers.” Students can enter based on their strengths, whether it’s math, science, or even the arts.

But what really sets this programme apart? Flexibility. Kids can join or leave these high-ability programmes at any time during their upper primary years. If your child wants to switch gears and explore other interests, they can do so without feeling like they’ve failed.

No more pressure, no more stigma—just room to grow and explore.

The Truth About Class Sizes

Now, let’s address a burning question on every parent’s mind: will these high-ability classes be smaller, like the GEP?

Smaller classes can make a huge difference in learning, and MP Louis Chua raised this concern. Minister Chan Chun Sing responded by explaining that smaller class sizes are usually reserved for students with extreme needs, but that’s not the only factor.

The real game-changer? The quality of teachers and the use of cutting-edge technology.

While we may not see a dramatic drop in class sizes, teachers will be supported with better tools to cater to your child’s unique learning needs. So, while the number of students might stay the same, your child can still benefit from a personalized learning experience.

What This Means for Your Child

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This overhaul signals a shift in how Singapore nurtures its top learners. Minister Chan Chun Sing’s approach to developing high-ability students focuses on flexibility, passion, and growth. Instead of rigid programmes that focus on all-round brilliance, kids can now explore their strengths in specific areas, opening up exciting pathways for their future.

The takeaway for parents? This isn’t just about boosting grades or prepping for exams. It’s about helping your child become curious, innovative, and confident—traits that go far beyond the classroom.

So, if you’ve been wondering whether this new programme is right for your child, it’s worth thinking about what kind of learner they truly are and how they can flourish in this fresh, dynamic environment.

Ready to Support Your Child’s Next Chapter?

As parents, we play a crucial role in our children’s education journey. So, how can you make the most of these new opportunities? Stay engaged, encourage your child to explore their interests, and embrace the flexibility this new model offers.

These high-ability programmes aren’t just about academic success—they’re about preparing our kids for a world that values creativity, innovation, and passion.

Let’s support Chan Chun Sing’s vision for a more flexible, inclusive, and inspiring education system. After all, our children’s bright futures are what it’s all about!

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