Singapore Primary School: Education System Overview
Welcome to the world of Singapore’s primary school education! If you are a parent, guardian, or student, you may be wondering how the primary school system works in Singapore. With six years of compulsory education, primary school is an essential foundation for students to develop key skills and knowledge that will benefit them throughout their lives.

Singapore’s primary school system is known for its rigorous curriculum, which focuses on developing students‘ critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills. Students are exposed to a range of subjects, including English, Mathematics, Science, Mother Tongue languages, and Social Studies. Additionally, students participate in co-curricular activities (CCAs), which help to develop their interests and talents outside of the classroom.
Navigating the official resources available for primary school education in Singapore can be overwhelming. However, with the right information and guidance, you can make informed decisions about your child’s education. In this article, we will provide you with an overview of Singapore’s primary school system, help you understand how to navigate official resources, and answer some frequently asked questions. So, let’s get started!
Key Takeaways
- Singapore’s primary school system provides six years of compulsory education and focuses on developing students‘ critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills.
- Navigating official resources for primary school education in Singapore can be overwhelming, but with the right information and guidance, you can make informed decisions about your child’s education.
- By understanding how the primary school system works, you can help your child develop a strong foundation for their future educational and personal success.
Understanding Singapore’s Primary School System

If you are a parent in Singapore, you may be wondering about the primary school system. This section will help you understand the educational framework, enrolment process, key stages, and curriculum of primary schools in Singapore.
Educational Framework
The primary education system in Singapore is designed to provide a strong foundation in literacy, numeracy, and character development. The Ministry of Education oversees this process and ensures that all primary schools follow the same curriculum.
There are two types of primary schools in Singapore: government-aided schools and independent schools. Government-aided schools receive financial support from the government, while independent schools rely on their own funding.
Enrolment Process
If you have a child who is eligible for primary school, you can apply for enrolment through the Primary One Registration Exercise. This exercise takes place every year and assigns places in primary schools based on a set of priority rules.
The priority rules take into account factors such as proximity to the school, sibling priority, and parent volunteering. It is important to note that not all children are guaranteed a place in their preferred school.
Key Stages and Curriculum
Primary education in Singapore is divided into two key stages: Foundation Stage (Primary 1 and 2) and Orientation Stage (Primary 3 to 6). During the Foundation Stage, children focus on developing basic literacy and numeracy skills. In the Orientation Stage, they build on these skills and learn more advanced concepts.
The primary school curriculum in Singapore covers four main subjects: English Language, Mother Tongue Language (such as Chinese), Mathematics, and Science. Other subjects, such as Social Studies and Art, are also included in the curriculum.
Overall, the primary school system in Singapore is designed to provide a strong educational foundation for children. By understanding the educational framework, enrolment process, key stages, and curriculum, you can make informed decisions for your child’s education.
Navigating Official Resources

When it comes to navigating official resources related to Singapore primary schools, it’s important to know where to look and how to communicate securely with schools. Here are some tips for finding trusted websites and communicating with schools:
Official Website and .Gov.Sg Domain
The Singapore government agency responsible for education is the Ministry of Education (MOE). The official website for MOE is www.moe.gov.sg. This website contains a wealth of information about primary schools in Singapore, including curriculum, admission procedures, and school rankings. To ensure that you are accessing a trusted website, look for the .gov.sg domain in the website URL.
Secure Communication with Schools
When communicating with schools, it’s important to ensure that your communication is secure. This means using secure websites and communication channels. One way to ensure secure communication is to use the Student Learning Space (SLS) portal, which is an online learning platform provided by MOE. SLS provides a secure communication channel between parents and teachers, and allows parents to monitor their child’s progress in school.
Identifying Trusted Websites
When searching for information about primary schools in Singapore, it’s important to identify trusted websites. One way to do this is to look for official website links on the MOE website. These links will lead you to trusted websites that provide accurate information about primary schools in Singapore. Additionally, look for websites that use HTTPS, which indicates that the website is secure and your information is safe.
By following these tips, you can navigate official resources related to Singapore primary schools with confidence and ensure that your communication with schools is secure.
Frequently Asked Questions

How are primary schools ranked in Singapore?
Primary schools in Singapore are ranked based on their academic performance, facilities, and overall reputation. The Ministry of Education (MOE) releases an annual school ranking based on the Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE) results. However, it is important to note that rankings are not the only factor to consider when choosing a primary school for your child.
At what age do children start primary school in Singapore?
Children in Singapore start primary school at the age of 7. The primary school education in Singapore lasts for six years, from Primary 1 to Primary 6.
Could you provide a list of primary schools in Singapore?
The Ministry of Education (MOE) provides a comprehensive list of primary schools in Singapore on their website. You can also find information on the different types of primary schools available, such as government-funded schools, government-aided schools, and independent schools.
How does the Ministry of Education in Singapore structure the primary school curriculum?
The primary school curriculum in Singapore is designed to provide a strong foundation in English, Mathematics, Science, and Mother Tongue languages. The curriculum is structured around six learning areas: Languages, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Character and Citizenship Education, and Aesthetics and Physical Education. The MOE regularly reviews and updates the curriculum to ensure it remains relevant and effective.
What are the fees associated with attending a primary school in Singapore?
Primary education in Singapore is heavily subsidized by the government, and fees are kept affordable for all. The fees vary depending on the type of school and the level of subsidy, but they typically range from around $13 to $160 per month.
What are the timings for a typical school day in a Singapore primary school?
The timings for a typical school day in a Singapore primary school are from 7.30am to 1.30pm. However, schools may have slightly different timings, and some may offer after-school activities or programs. It is always best to check with the individual school for their specific timings and schedules.