Education is a fundamental right for every child, regardless of their abilities or challenges. In Singapore, special education (SPED) plays a vital role in ensuring that children with diverse learning needs receive the support and opportunities they need to thrive. This guide will introduce you to SPED schools Singapore, helping you understand their importance and how they cater to special needs.
In this article, we’ll delve into the world of SPED schools Singapore, exploring their unique teaching methods, enrollment considerations, available schools, and the application process. Whether you’re a local or an expatriate parent, finding the right SPED school can make a significant difference in your child’s educational journey.
What is Special Education
Special education refers to a range of educational services and support provided to students with disabilities, learning differences, or developmental challenges. It aims to address individual needs and help students overcome barriers that might impede their learning and social development.
Singapore’s approach to special education is rooted in the principles of inclusivity and equal access to quality education for all.
Teaching Methods in Special Education
The teaching methods employed in SPED are diverse and tailored to the individual needs of each student. These methods focus on personalised instruction, adaptive curriculum, and supportive environments.
Teachers often use techniques such as differentiated instruction, multisensory learning, and assistive technology to accommodate various learning styles and abilities. The emphasis is on fostering a positive learning experience that builds on the strengths of each student while addressing their specific challenges.
Should You Enroll Your Child on a SPED School
According to a report from the Ministry of Education (MOE), Singapore has about 35,500 students with reported special educational needs as of December 2022.
That number includes children with learning disorders such as dyslexia, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and mild autism spectrum.
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Deciding whether to enrol a child in special education requires careful consideration and collaboration with educators and specialists. Here are some factors to consider:
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If your child has been diagnosed with a disability, learning difference, or developmental delay, SPED may provide the tailored support they need to succeed.
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If your child is struggling to keep up with the regular curriculum and requires extra assistance, special education could offer a more suitable learning environment.
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If your child requires therapies such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, or physical therapy, special education schools often integrate these services into their programs.
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If your child faces challenges in social interactions or has difficulty forming relationships, special education settings may offer a more supportive environment.
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If your child would benefit from individualised education plans (IEPs) and smaller class sizes, special education can provide such accommodations.
Special Needs Preschools in Singapore
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1. The Growing Academy
The Growing Academy focuses on Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) therapy for children aged 2 to 7 with autism, ADHD, speech delays, and behavioural issues. The centre’s approach includes individual therapy, a mainstream readiness programme, and social skills group learning. They offer individualised goal-setting plans developed with parents and caregivers, ensuring each child receives tailored support. With specialised training for educators, the academy maintains high standards of education and care. The Growing Academy is expanding with a new training centre, offering workshops and resources for both teachers and parents.
Contact:
Address: Multiple locations including East Coast Road, Upper Paya Lebar Road, and Sin Ming Road, Singapore
Phone: (+65) 9424 1961
2. Brainy Junior Campus
Brainy Junior Campus caters to children from 18 months to 7 years, including expats. This inclusive preschool offers a mainstream-aligned programme with individualised learning plans tailored to each child’s unique needs. Emphasising social, emotional, and physical well-being alongside academics, the campus prepares children for successful transitions to elementary and primary school.
Contact:
Address: 69 Frankel Ave, Singapore 458197
Phone: (+65) 6214 0174
3. Bright Path Preschool
Bright Path Preschool provides an inclusive environment with early intervention and specialised therapies. Catering to children with different abilities, the preschool customises lessons to meet each child’s individual needs. They work with occupational therapists, speech pathologists, and psychologists to support children’s development and academic success.
Contact:
Address: 109 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 8, Grassroots’ Club #03-02, Singapore 568046
Phone: (+65) 6937 1374
4. Dyslexia Association of Singapore (DAS)
The Dyslexia Association of Singapore offers a Preschool Intervention Programme that meets weekly to prepare children for primary school. The programme focuses on language and vocabulary, phonics, grammar, writing, and reading comprehension. DAS also provides a Main Literacy Programme and one-on-one tutoring. As a registered charity, DAS supports low-income families with children who have dyslexia or other specific learning differences.
Contact:
Address: Multiple locations including Chua Chu Kang, Henderson, and Parkway Parade, Singapore
Phone: (+65) 6444 5700
5. Genesis School for Special Education
Genesis School for Special Education serves children from 2.5 years through adulthood, focusing on those with average IQ or above. The school provides a multi-faceted approach to education, including social-emotional development and cognitive skills. Their family-oriented model aims to support various aspects of a child’s growth.
Contact:
Address: 9/11 West Coast Road, Singapore 127296
Phone: (+65) 6733 1172
6. Mighty Oaks
Mighty Oaks offers a DIR-Floortime-based programme for children aged 3 to 6, focusing on school readiness. The centre provides group-based education with access to speech therapy, occupational therapy, and art therapy. Their intensive daily programmes help children transition to mainstream school within six to twelve months.
Contact:
Address: 167 Jalan Bukit Merah, Connection One Tower 4, #03-15, Singapore 150167
Phone: (+65) 6736 2663
7. Nurture Pods
Nurture Pods is an early intervention centre for children aged 18 months to 12 years, specialising in autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, and developmental delays. Their approach includes Early Intensive Behavioural Intervention (EIBI) and ABA. They offer home-based therapy, centre-based programmes, social skills classes, and school shadow support.
Contact:
Address: 314 Thomson Road, Eng Aun Mansion, Singapore 307659
Phone: (+65) 6352 5938
8. Wee Care
Wee Care provides early intervention services alongside its preschool programme. They offer both individual and group therapy sessions, including home-based ABA sessions. The centre supports children with autism, ADHD, and developmental dyspraxia, offering a 1:3 teacher-student ratio in their First Starts programme.
Contact:
Address: 71 Oxley Rise #02-02 to #02-08, Singapore 238698
Phone: (+65) 6908 4626
Inclusive Schools in Singapore
1. The Winstedt School
The Winstedt School caters to students from Reception to Year 13, offering a robust support system. With small class sizes and a 2:8 teacher-to-student ratio, it ensures personalised attention. The school’s SEED Programme is particularly beneficial for students who need extra support before transitioning to mainstream education. Located at Upper Boon Keng Road, it provides a holistic educational environment.
Contact:
Address: 1208 Upper Boon Keng Road, Singapore 387312
Phone: (+65) 6715 5373
2. Integrated International School (IIS)
IIS offers dual pathways: one for mainstream students and another for those with special needs. Its curriculum is based on the British education system, tailored to individual strengths. The school provides extensive support, including behavioural therapists and psychologists. Located in Church Street, IIS focuses on a holistic and inclusive education model.
Contact:
Address: Capital Square Two, 21 Church Street, #01-01, Singapore 049480
Phone: (+65) 6466 4475
3. All Hands Together
All Hands Together is a boutique school offering both mainstream and special education pathways. It serves children aged 2 to 18, focusing on personalised learning plans. The school places a strong emphasis on family involvement and partnerships with therapists. Located at The Yards, it offers a nurturing environment for children with various learning needs.
Contact:
Address: The Yards, 396 Joo Chiat Place, Singapore 428079
Phone: (+65) 6803 5012
4. Dynamics International School (DIS)
Dynamics International School (DIS) offers two academic pathways: mainstream and inclusive education. It supports children aged 5 to 16 through a curriculum aligned with the International Primary Curriculum and Cambridge International. DIS focuses on personalised teaching methods and a low student-to-teacher ratio. Located on Orchard Road, DIS is dedicated to recognising and nurturing each child’s potential.
Contact:
Address: 583 Orchard Road, #13-03, Forum The Shopping Mall, Singapore 238884
Phone: (+65) 6100 9235
5. Melbourne International School (MIS)
Melbourne International School (MIS) embraces inclusivity and welcomes children with various needs, including autism and ADHD. MIS maintains a low student-to-teacher ratio, ensuring personalised attention. The school employs a multi-sensory teaching approach, supported by occupational therapy, speech therapy, and psychology professionals. Located on Loewen Road, MIS aims to create a psychologically safe and supportive learning environment.
Contact:
Address: 75C Loewen Road, Dempsey, Singapore 248853
Phone: (+65) 6634 8891
6. Dover Court International School
Dover Court International School (DCIS) is an inclusive British international school offering a unique Pathway structure. Pathway 1 follows the mainstream curriculum, while Pathways 2 and 3 provide additional support. The school caters to a diverse range of needs through a personalised approach, employing educational psychologists and various therapists. Located on Dover Road, DCIS provides an adapted curriculum from Early Intervention to Year 13.
Contact:
Address: 301 Dover Road, Singapore 139644
Phone: (+65) 6775 7664
7. Singapore American School
Singapore American School (SAS) offers a personalised learning approach with comprehensive academic and social support. SAS provides accessible classrooms and collaborates with support providers such as speech-language pathologists and occupational therapists. Located in Woodlands, SAS is committed to meeting the needs of each student through daily collaboration among support teams.
Contact:
Address: 40 Woodlands Street 41, Singapore 738547
Phone: (+65) 6363 3403
Special Needs Schools & Institutions in Singapore
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1. The GUILD International College
The GUILD International College is Singapore’s first inclusive institution for individuals aged 9 to 30. They offer various programmes such as the Foundation Programme, Pathways Programme, Transition Programme, Career Pathways Programme, and Day Activity Programme. These programmes, led by experienced teachers and therapists, focus on nurturing confidence, compassion, and responsibility. The college collaborates with SGEnable to provide work readiness programmes, including vocational skills training, internships, and experiential learning opportunities. Their state-of-the-art facilities like the Art and Design Studio and Woodworking Studio foster creativity and curiosity.
Contact:
Address: 318A Tanglin Road, Phoenix Park, Singapore 247979
Phone: (+65) 6235 8240
2. Eden School
Eden School offers a curriculum designed for children aged 7 to 18 years on the autism spectrum. Developed with ARC(S) autism consultants, the curriculum helps children manage personal needs, participate in social interactions, and prepare for meaningful employment. The school focuses on practical skills to support students’ transition to adult life and is open only to Singaporean students.
Contact:
Address: 101 Bukit Batok West Avenue 3, Singapore 659168
Phone: (+65) 6265 7400
3. Metta School
Metta School serves students aged 7 to 21 with mild intellectual disabilities or autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Supported by MOE, the school offers five main programmes tailored to different age groups and profiles. Metta School aims to empower students to be self-reliant and contribute to society, equipping them with the skills needed for a meaningful life.
Contact:
Address: 30 Simei Street 1, Singapore 529949
Phone: (+65) 6788 5800
4. MINDS Towner Gardens School
MINDS Towner Gardens School offers special education for students aged 7 to 18, including language and science education, vocational learning, and a dedicated ASD programme. The school features a variety of facilities, such as a mixed-reality dreamscape and multimedia lab, and provides robust co-curricular activities including arts, sports, and gardening.
Contact:
Address: 1B Lengkong Lima, Singapore 417557
Phone: (+65) 6446 2612
5. Pathlight School
Pathlight School is the first autism-focused school in Singapore, serving students aged 7 to 18. The school blends the mainstream Singapore curriculum with life readiness skills, featuring smaller class sizes, special accommodations, and trained staff. Pathlight primarily serves Singaporeans but also accepts PR students who meet MOE’s requirements.
Contact:
Address: 5 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 10, Singapore 569739 and 2 Ang Mo Kio St 44, Singapore 569250
6. Rainbow Centre
Rainbow Centre empowers individuals with disabilities through early intervention and special education programmes. They offer an Early Intervention Programme for children 6 years and below and a functional SPED curriculum with individualised education plans. Activities include aquatics, dance, and digital literacy. The centre is open to Singaporean and PR students only.
Contact:
Address: Multiple locations including Yishun Park, Margaret Drive, and Admiral Hill, Singapore
Phone: (+65) 6475 2072
7. St. Andrew’s Autism School (SAAS)
St. Andrew’s Autism School (SAAS) provides a developmental curriculum for students with autism, focusing on social-emotional learning, communication, functional literacy, and daily living skills. The school employs a person-centred approach for individualised education plans and offers various therapeutic interventions and co-curricular activities. SAAS is open to Singaporeans and PRs only.
Contact:
Address: 1 Elliot Road, Singapore 458686
Phone: (+65) 6517 3800
Early Intervention Centres
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1. AltSchool International
AltSchool International offers a comprehensive early intervention programme for children aged 3 to 8 with various developmental challenges, including autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, and speech delays. The centre provides full-day options until 5:30 pm, incorporating learning, therapy, and an after-school programme. AltSchool’s approach begins with a detailed observation and assessment period to create a customised Individualised Education Plan (IEP). This plan uses Montessori-inspired principles to foster holistic development, focusing on experiential learning to help children explore and understand their environment. Their child-led, play-responsive methodologies emulate a traditional school setting, aiding in smooth transitions to mainstream education.
Contact:
Address: 374 River Valley Rd #02-01, Singapore 248281
Phone: (+65) 6908 5950
2. Autism Recovery Network Singapore
Established in 2005, Autism Recovery Network (ARN) provides high-quality early intervention for children aged 15 months to 15 years with autism and learning difficulties. ARN offers ABA-VB therapy (Applied Behaviour Analysis – Verbal Behaviour), which focuses on verbal communication. The programme begins with an assessment using the ABLLS-R® tool to tailor a personalised intervention plan. ARN’s team of educators collaborates with parents to help children integrate successfully into mainstream society. The centre is recognised for its certified ABA-VB therapy and holds the BACB ACE certification in Singapore and Southeast Asia.
Contact:
Address: 458A Joo Chiat Road, Singapore 427671
Phone: (+65) 6348 8005
3. Alpha to Omega
Alpha to Omega (ATO) supports neurodiverse children with mild-to-moderate difficulties such as autism, ADHD, and dyslexia. ATO provides programmes based on insights from a 1-hour informal assessment, aiming to help pre-schoolers transition smoothly into primary school and improve cognitive abilities for primary school children. The centre offers one-to-one intervention and small group classes, focusing on enhancing literacy, math, and cognitive skills. ATO’s therapists are experienced professionals trained in their unique techniques and philosophy.
Contact:
Address: #10-01, Forum Shopping Mall, 583 Orchard Rd, Singapore 238884
4. The Early Intervention Centre (EIC)
EIC offers targeted educational programmes for children from 18 months to 8 years with autism, intellectual disabilities, and developmental delays. Services include group early intervention, individual early learning support, creative music, and occupational and speech therapy. EIC employs Applied Behavioural Analysis (ABA) principles to bridge learning gaps and improve understanding, providing a focused and holistic learning experience.
Contact:
Address: 18 Ah Hood Road, #06-52/54, Hiap Hoe Building, Singapore 329983
Phone: (+65) 6352 8608
5. Medley Plus
Medley Plus is a music therapy company that uses music to support children’s developmental journeys and empower families. Their therapists offer home-based therapy sessions that address various non-musical goals, including communication, socio-emotional, and cognitive skills. The programme is designed for children aged 2 to 18, and focuses on using music as a medium to achieve developmental milestones.
Contact:
Phone: (+65) 9384 6878
6. Bridge Learning
Bridge Learning offers a neuroscience-based, cross-categorical approach to early intervention for children aged 2.5 to 12 years with mild learning difficulties and disabilities. The centre uses Dynamic Diagnostic Assessment™ (DDA) to create an Individualised Developmental and Progress Profile (IDPP) and employs techniques like Bridge NeuroGym™ and Israeli Brain Techniques to enhance communication in the brain. They provide both one-on-one and group intervention programmes and offer financial subsidies for lower-income families.
Contact:
Locations: Jurong West and Loyang Point
Phone: (+65) 9021 5988
7. Kaleidoscope Therapy Centre for Children
Kaleidoscope’s early intervention preschool programme, “Ready Let’s Go,” is designed for children aged 2 to 4. The centre provides intensive occupational and speech therapy in small group settings, supporting children with various disabilities, including autism, cerebral palsy, and global developmental delay. The therapy team includes teachers with degrees in education and Masters in Special Education, providing training on developmental play, sensory integration, and speech and language delay.
Contact:
Address: 167 Jalan Bukit Merah, #03-15, Connection One Tower 4, Singapore 150167
Phone: (+65) 6468 8991
8. KidsFirst School
KidsFirst offers early intervention and therapy for children aged 2 to 12, using approaches such as DIR Floortime, Hanen Program, PROMPT, and Social Thinking. They cater to children with autism, speech-language delay, cerebral palsy, ADHD, Down syndrome, and other challenges. The centre works closely with parents to align therapy goals with family priorities through training sessions and family circle time.
Contact:
Address: 8 Hong Kong Street, Singapore 059651
Phone: (+65) 9166 5597
9. Thumbs Up Therapy Singapore
Thumbs Up Therapy offers mobile, in-home paediatric services that help children perform activities independently, including learning, playtime, and self-care. They provide individual assessments, therapy sessions, extracurricular activities, group therapy, and caregiver training workshops. Thumbs Up Therapy also organises school holiday camps and has speech and language therapists trained to support children’s development.
Contact:
Address: 24 Jalan Kuning, Singapore 278169
Phone: (+65) 8803 8447
Complete List of Special Education Schools in Singapore
Currently, there are a total of 22 government-funded special education schools here, with a further six to become operational by the 2030s. These schools are equipped with trained educators, therapists, and support staff who collaborate to create a holistic learning experience.
Moreover, every primary and secondary school in Singapore has about five to 10 teachers trained in special needs education. </p>
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<p>e are some schools offering SPED Programs in Singapore, classified based on a child’s primary diagnosed condition:
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) with no intellectual impairment
These schools offer the National Curriculum.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) with intellectual impairment
Mild intellectual disability (MID)
Moderate to severe intellectual disability (MSID)
Multiple disabilities (MD)
Sensory impairment
You can click here to have an overview of the application >timeline&lt;/a> for SPED schools in Singapore.
The government has also set up partnerships between special needs schools and general education schools to promote inclusivity and intermingling between children.
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How to Apply in a SPED School in Singapore
Applying for special education in Singapore involves several steps:
The process begins with an assessment of your child’s needs, conducted by professionals such as educational psychologists or therapists.
Based on the assessment results, you can choose a school that aligns with your child’s needs and strengths. In your application form, you can list up to 3 schools that can support your child’s primary diagnosed condition (see the list above).
You can apply to enrol your child in a SPED school by filling up a 4-part application form. You need to be ready with your child’s personal, medical and educational information, including his diagnosed condition.
Some parts of the application form will be answered by a medical professional and a teacher.
Have digital copies of all required documents to be uploaded in your application and e prepared to complete the application form in one sitting as it cannot be saved as draft.
It’s best to prepare at least one year early before your intended admission as s it takes time to gather the reports to be submitted in your application.
Some schools may require an interview or assessment, if necessary, to determine the best fit for your child.
If the application is successful
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- You will receive an offer letter from the school by post or email within 3 to 6 months from the date of your application submission.
- Register your child at the school within 2 weeks from the day you receive the offer letter.
If the application is unsuccessful
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- If your first-choice school has no vacancies or is unable to cater to your child’s learning needs, an alternative school will be recommended.
- The alternative school may not be your second- or third-choice school, but the recommendation would be based on your child’s learning needs.
- The school will arrange to meet you and your child, if necessary. You do not need to resubmit your application.
- If the school is able to support your child’s learning needs, you will receive an offer letter from the school.
The Importance of Early Intervention
If you have a child with special needs, you may have heard the term early intervention often enough from their doctors.
In the context of education, the early intervention program in Singapore is specialised support given to young children aged 6 years old and below to aid their development during the most critical stage of development.
The benefits of these programmes include:
- Helping the child develop skills to overcome some developmental delays.
- Improve their physical, emotional, social and cognitive skills.
- Minimise or prevent the development of secondary disabilities, such as mental health problems.
The Early Childhood Development Agency has an Early Intervention Programme for Infants & Children (EIPIC) that are better suited to the varied developmental needs of our children, and the changes in a child’s developmental needs over time.
Singaporeans or permanent residents are encouraged to apply. You just need to have a doctor at any polyclinic refer your child for assessment at the Department of Child Development (DCD) at KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital (KKH) or Child Development Unit (CDU) at National University Hospital (NUH).
The hospital will recommend EIPIC if your child is assessed to be suitable. You can also approach a private paediatrician for assessment and recommendation for EIPIC. Once your child has been assessed as suitable, the hospital or private paediatrician will submit the application to SG Enable upon your consent. Click here for more information.
Your child may have special needs, but that should not stop them from getting support and quality education that will help prepare them for the future. If you need help in assessing whether to enroll your child to a SPED school or not, do not hesitate to consult your child’s paediatrician.
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