All primary schools in Singapore will shift to full home-based learning from 27 September until 6 October. This is being done amid the rise of COVID-19 cases in the country and will be applicable to Primary 1 to 5 students.
This precautionary measure was announced by the Ministry of Education (MOE) in a press release on Saturday (18 September).
These measures will also apply to Special Education schools offering the National Curriculum.
All Primary Schools In Singapore To Start Home-Based Learning For Primary 1 To 5 Students
The additional safety measures are for all primary schools in Singapore in the lead up to the Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE).
According to the ministry, these are to better protect younger students "who are not yet medically eligible for vaccination."
MOE says it is also to minimise the risk of school-based transmissions and reduce the number of students placed on Quarantine Order or Leave of Absence prior to the examination.
Primary and SPED schools will remain open for students who need additional support during the home-based learning period.
Same as the arrangements for last year's year-end national examinations, Primary 6 students will also go on a study break prior to the PSLE from 25 to 29 September 2021.
The PSLE sitting will start on 30 September this year.
Additional Support To Also Be Given To Families During This Period
Meanwhile, MOE Kindergartens, KCare Services and Student Care Centres are said to continue operating normally.
"Parents who are unable to work from home or secure alternative care arrangements can approach their children's schools for assistance," says the ministry.
In addition to MOE's statement, Education Minister Chan Chun Sing also writes about the measures in a Facebook post on Saturday.
In his post, he writes, "Our students are taking their national exams amidst challenging circumstances – let us all do our part to support them and protect our school community."
Arrangements For Primary Schools In Singapore In The Lead-up To PSLE
The breakdown of dates for the arrangements of all primary schools in Singapore in the lead-up to PSLE are as follow:
| 27 September - 6 October 2021 | |
| Primary 1 to 5 | Home-based learning |
| 25 – 29 September 2021 | 30 September – 6 October 2021 | |
| Primary 6 | PSLE study break | Sitting for the PSLE |
Self-Testing Still Highly Encouraged For All Students
MOE strongly encourages students to do an Antigen Rapid Test (ART) swab test at home on the following dates:
- Primary 1 to 5: Either on 4 or 5 October 2021
- Primary 6: Either on 27 or 28 September 2021
This is to ensure the safe return of all students to school. It will also allow for sufficient time for students to take a confirmatory Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) swab test if necessary.
The ministry urges all students and staff to continue "practising good personal hygiene, adhere to Safe Management Measures, and exercise social responsibility."
"MOE will continue to monitor the COVID-19 situation closely and implement additional measures to keep our school environment safe, where necessary," the ministry adds.
Source: MOE/ Mr Chan Chun Sing
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