Measures Adopted by Schools to Prevent Fatal Incidents during Physical Education Classes

Mr Patrick Tay Teck Guan asked the Minister for Education if he can provide an update on the recent deaths of two Secondary school students within a week in the course of physical education lessons and what is being done to prevent such incidents from happening in the future.

I am deeply saddened by the recent deaths of two of our Secondary school students. The teachers and students in the two schools have also been very affected by the loss. The causes of the deaths in the two cases are being investigated by the Police.

Following these tragic incidents, MOE did another round of review to ensure that safety protocols have been followed. In both cases, the protocols were followed.

MOE has reminded all schools to continue to observe the safety protocols. These include:

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(a) Reviewing overall risks assessment for the PE programme regularly to ensure that risks are adequately mitigated.

(b) Collecting medical declarations from the parents to surface any pre-existing medical conditions students may have.

(c) Asking students at the start of each PE lesson if they feel well. Those who are unwell, students with parents’ letters, medical certificates and those who have just recovered from flu, cold and cough with chest infections are excused from the physical activities. A visual check is also done. Students with asthmatic conditions are advised to have their prescribed reliever medicine with them at all times.

(d) Conducting warming-up and cooling-down exercises before and after physical activities.

The safety protocols are reviewed from time-to-time and refinements made when necessary. PE teachers are also trained in first-aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation to respond to emergencies.

Schools will continue to ensure safety procedures are followed for PE and co-curricular activities that have physical activities. The safety of our students is of paramount importance. All schools will be vigilant. We will ensure that our students are developed holistically in a safe environment.