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3rd May 2024
The Academic People
Navigating the Local vs International Schools Dilemma in Singapore
The Academic People
Learn about the curriculum, values, culture, language, school day, academic year, costs, admission, decision factor and consulting services in this article.
The debate between local and international schools remains a hot topic amongst expatriate parents in Singapore. As an education consultancy who specializes in consulting and guiding parents on their child’s educational journey in Singapore, we understand that there's no one-size-fits-all solution.
However, we've endeavored to simplify this daunting dilemma by dissecting its various components. Let's explore the disparities in culture and language, curriculum, values and approaches, costs and admissions processes, hours, and the associated pros, cons, and unresolved queries to aid you in making an informed decision—for each of your children!
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urriculum, Values & Approach
International schools in Singapore present a myriad of curriculum options, including:
- British (IGCSE)
- American (Advanced Placement/SATS)
- Australian
- German
- French
- IB curriculum (IBDP)
- Others (Japanese, Indian, etc.)
Many international schools blend various internationally recognized curricula into a hybrid approach. These schools also prioritize and nurture diverse values, which are typically outlined in their vision, mission, philosophy, or core values statements. They often develop personalized learning plans for students, provide learning support, and foster creativity and critical thinking.
In contrast, local schools adhere to a more uniform and academically rigorous approach. However, recent initiatives from the Ministry of Education (MOE) have infused a holistic and values-based dimension into the Singapore National Curriculum, focusing on literacy, numeracy, social skills, and community collaboration.
C
ulture & Language
Attending a local school offers your child a distinctive opportunity to immerse themselves in Singaporean culture in ways otherwise unattainable. It fosters a sense of belonging in a foreign land and facilitates integration into the local community.
Moreover, it ensures deep immersion in language, as Singapore's English-based bilingual education system mandates English as the medium of instruction alongside the official mother tongue.
On the other hand, while international schools don't necessarily preclude bilingualism or community engagement, they allow children to preserve and embrace their "foreign" identity within a diverse community of peers from around the globe.
Some international schools also encourage involvement in the local community and offer Mandarin along with a language associated with the school's origin, catering to diverse linguistic backgrounds.
S
C
C
ost & Admissions
The most significant disparity between the two systems lies in their costs, often becoming the decisive factor in decision-making. Securing a spot at a local school can be notoriously challenging for non-residents, while Singapore citizens are not allowed to be enrolled into international schools.
The admission processes for local schools are governed by the MOE and vary significantly between the two systems. Local school fees differ based on citizenship and residency status, with fees for international students notably higher. International school fees vary widely and can range from a minimum of S$5,000 to well over S$50,000 annually.
chool Day & Academic Year
Scheduling differences between local and international schools also impact the daily lives and long-term plans of families.
Local Government Schools
Typical schedule:
7.30a.m – 1.45p.m
Academic Calendar:
January to November
International Schools
Typical schedule:
9.00a.m – 3.30p.m
Academic Calendar:
August to June
ost & Admissions
The most significant disparity between the two systems lies in their costs, often becoming the decisive factor in decision-making. Securing a spot at a local school can be notoriously challenging for non-residents, while Singapore citizens are not allowed to be enrolled into international schools.
The admission processes for local schools are governed by the MOE and vary significantly between the two systems. Local school fees differ based on citizenship and residency status, with fees for international students notably higher. International school fees vary widely and can range from a minimum of S$5,000 to well over S$50,000 annually.
Subjected to variations for international schools.
F
inal Verdict & Considerations:
Ultimately, the decision hinges on your individual circumstances and your child's unique disposition. Both local and international schools in Singapore offer exceptional standards of education with English as the primary language.
If budget constraints or waiting lists don't dictate your choice, consider factors such as your length of stay in Singapore and your child's educational stage. Moreover, align your values with those promoted by the school and assess how well the school's approach suits your child's learning style and personality.
By pondering these questions, you can steer towards a decision that best serves your child's educational journey and overall well-being.
The Academic People would be able to assist you on this by running relevant tests for your child and having experienced consultants to guide your child in achieving the best realistic outcomes in their educational journey here in Singapore.