Need to Know

International schools

Examples include UWCSEA, St Joseph’s Institution International and GEMS World Academy. These schools typically cater to dozens of cultures, all on an equal footing, and each one represented by an annual global celebration day. For expats who are on the move, the mix of international curriculums allows their children to transfer and continue their education easily. Curriculums are typically a mix of the International Baccalaureate, the International Primary Curriculum and the ICGSE.

National curriculum schools

Examples include Marlborough College Malaysia, the Singapore American School and Avondale Grammar School. Parents value the way that these schools ensure minimum disruption when transferring between countries, and, for older children, allow easy entry to university in their home country. Typically, these schools demonstrate strong cultural ties, while embracing their place in Singapore and its cultural diversity.

Hybrid curriculum schools

Examples include Stamford American International School, GESS, Tanglin Trust School and the Australian International School. These schools offer a dual curriculum approach, combining a home country curriculum with one or more international curriculums, typically with a culturally diverse student population and a strong emphasis on language.

Local schools

Some expats choose local schools, especially if their children attended a local kindergarten or preschool and they are keen to continue their intensive language instruction. Singapore’s education system has an excellent reputation internationally and regularly tops the world in mathematics and science. Families considering staying in Singapore for the long term may favour this option, but should be aware that there can be strong competition for places.