Plans to Review Continuation of Specialised Schools for Full Subject-based Banding

Mr David Hoe asked the Minister for Education (a) whether the Ministry has reviewed or plans to review the continued relevance of specialised schools, such as Crest and Spectra Secondary Schools in view of the implementation of full subject-based banding; (b) whether students in these schools who show aptitude in certain subjects can take them at G2-level; and (c) whether these schools are currently resourced to support such differentiated offerings.

Crest Secondary School and Spectra Secondary School offer a specialised curriculum for students who are inclined towards practice-oriented and hands-on learning, and are eligible for the Posting Group 1 or Posting Group 1/2 option band.

Even with the implementation of Full Subject-Based Banding, these two schools remain relevant in our secondary school landscape as they have unique offerings that cater to students with different learning styles.

Students at these schools offer both Secondary Education Certificate (SEC) subjects and the Institute of Technical Education Skills Subject Certificate. They can offer some SEC subjects at G2, depending on their aptitude and interests.

Given their specialised curriculum and student profile, these schools receive a higher level of resourcing to support their students, including more funding and better teacher to student ratios.