Singapore’s World-Class Education System: Why It’s a Top Choice for Expats with Children

When it comes to providing your child with a world-class education, Singapore consistently stands out as one of the best destinations globally beating out the likes of Japan and the UK. Whether you’re considering moving to Singapore for work, or you’re an expat already residing here, knowing that your children will have access to a top-tier education system can greatly influence your decision to make Singapore your home.

Singapore’s Global Education Ranking

Singapore’s education system has been ranked as one of the best in the world for years. According to the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), Singapore consistently ranks at the top in subjects such as math, science, and reading. In fact, in the 2022 PISA results, Singapore was ranked first globally for global academic intelligence.

This achievement highlights Singapore’s strong emphasis on academic excellence and its ability to produce students who excel in both core academic skills and real-world problem-solving abilities. Compared to other education systems across the globe, Singapore’s approach ensures that students develop strong foundational skills that can set them up for success in a competitive, globalized economy.

Generally, most students will attend schools under the Ministry of Education system, MOE controls the development and administration of state schools receiving taxpayers' funding but also has an advisory and supervisory role in respect of private schools. Singaporeans and Permanent Residence are able to enjoy subsidies in schools under the MOE system.

A Structured and Comprehensive Curriculum

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Singapore’s education system is known for its rigorous and well-structured curriculum. The Ministry of Education (MOE) emphasizes not only academic excellence but also character development, leadership, and lifelong learning skills. Students progress through various stages, starting with foundational primary education and continuing to secondary and post-secondary options that prepare them for both university and the workforce.

For expat families, this offers a sense of comfort, knowing that the education system in Singapore doesn't only focus on rote learning, but on developing well-rounded individuals. The variety of international schools available in Singapore, such as the Singapore American School, Australian International School, and United World College of Southeast Asia, provides expatriates with the option to pursue internationally recognized curricula like the International Baccalaureate (IB) or the American curriculum while still being part of Singapore’s educational framework.

Bilingual Education: A Competitive Advantage

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One of the unique features of Singapore’s education system is its emphasis on bilingualism. From an early age, children in Singapore are taught in both English and their mother tongue, be it Chinese, Malay, or Tamil. This not only helps them excel academically but also gives them a distinct advantage in a multicultural world where bilingualism is increasingly valued.

For expat children, this provides a fantastic opportunity to learn multiple languages in an organized environment, opening up a world of possibilities in terms of future career options and cultural adaptability.

Overview of Education in Singapore in 2024

As we move into 2024, Singapore’s Education Minister Chan Chun Sing has outlined a strategic vision that aims to ensure the nation’s education system continues to excel. Since Minister Chan Chun Sing, Singapore's education has seen a shift into prioritising the child's mental health and prioritising skills over degree. Since 2021, Singapore has since removed mid-year exams in primary and secondary schools to doing away with academic labels such as Express and Normal streams in attempt to minimise stressful period for students.

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Education as a Key to Long-Term Residence and PR in Singapore

For many expat families considering long-term residency in Singapore, securing Permanent Residency (PR) is a crucial step. One key factor that can strengthen a PR application is the integration of children into Singapore’s local education system. The government values residents who contribute to the nation's talent pool, and having children enrolled in local schools demonstrates a strong commitment to becoming part of Singaporean society. As an immigration agency, we emphasize this advantage in our clients' PR applications to enhance their chances of success.

Moreover, the education system’s strong global ranking is a testament to the country’s future-focused outlook, making it a promising environment for expat families seeking stability and long-term success for their children.

International Schooling Options

Expat parents have the advantage of choosing from a range of international schools in Singapore that cater to various nationalities and curriculum. These schools offer global-standard education and provide students with excellent preparation for tertiary education both locally and abroad.

In addition, Singapore is home to world-renowned universities such as the National University of Singapore (NUS) and Nanyang Technological University (NTU), ranked 8th and 15th globally in the QS World University Rankings 2024. Having the option to pursue higher education in Singapore could also be a significant draw for expat parents looking at Singapore as a long-term destination for their family.

Conclusion

Singapore is not just a leading financial hub and one of the safest cities in the world, it’s also a top-tier destination for education. Its highly ranked education system offers a robust foundation for children to thrive academically and develop as global citizens. For expat families, this provides peace of mind that your children will be receiving one of the best educations in the world, preparing them for a successful future.

Choosing Singapore as your new home, where education is highly prioritized, ensures that your children’s future is in capable hands. By applying for PR, expat families can deepen their connection to this thriving city and fully benefit from its world-class education system.

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‍Disclaimer: All information provided is accurate as of 2024 and is intended for informational purposes only. Information and data may change after this date, and readers are encouraged to verify the accuracy and relevance of the information independently before making any decisions. The content provided by Kenneth & Co. does not constitute professional advice from the government, and readers are advised to consult with qualified professionals for specific guidance tailored to their individual circumstances. Kenneth & Co. disclaims any liability for any harm, loss, or inconvenience caused by the use of the information provided.

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