Visiting Singapore Secondary School Open Houses: Insights for Parents

As the November open house season for Singapore secondary schools approaches, many families are preparing to visit campuses across the island. These open houses, happening over the next four weekends, are more than scheduled tours. They are unique opportunities for parents and students to immerse themselves in each school’s environment and make informed decisions about this crucial next step.

Why Attend Open Houses in Person?

The energy, attitudes, and spirit within a school can’t be conveyed through websites or brochures alone. By being present, parents and students can observe genuine interactions among students and teachers, sense the overall culture, and imagine what daily life might feel like. The “vibes” you pick up can strongly influence whether a particular school is the right fit.

What Else Should Parents Ask About?

Beyond soaking up the atmosphere, open houses are ideal for asking critical questions about each school’s signature programmes, be it in the arts, STEM or sports. Investigate what is distinctive about their curriculum and co-curricular activities (CCAs). Ask specifically about subject availability at the upper secondary levels such as whether Additional Mathematics or Pure Sciences are widely offered, or if there are academic restrictions that could close off future school option pathways.

Impact on Future Choices

Remember, the subjects your child is allowed to take at Secondary 3 and 4 will shape their eligibility for key subjects in junior college (JC) or polytechnic and ultimately, certain university courses. For instance, students excluded from taking Additional Maths may struggle to qualify for H2 Maths in JC, which is a prerequisite for many competitive university courses both locally and abroad. Likewise, students hoping to leverage their CCA achievements for DSA-JC or EAE-Poly admissions need to confirm that the school offers the right CCA support.

Make Your Visit Count

Come prepared, observe attentively and ask purposeful questions. Secondary school is a springboard that influences your child’s academic, character and career development for years to come. Take full advantage of this open house season to chart a meaningful educational journey for your family.