Should Singapore Pilot a Through-Train Programme for Students?
SINGAPORE: The Ministry of Education (MOE) continues to assess the feasibility of implementing through-train programmes that span Primary 1 to Secondary 4. However, numerous challenges need to be addressed, as highlighted by Education Minister Chan Chun Sing on Wednesday (Mar 1).
During the Committee of Supply debates, Workers’ Party (WP) MP Jamus Lim and Progress Singapore Party NCMP Hazel Poa raised questions about the potential benefits of such programmes. In response, Mr Chan stated, “We have thought about piloting through-train schools, but certain critical issues must first be resolved.”
Ms Poa, speaking earlier, proposed introducing a pilot programme that would eliminate the Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE) for participating students, allowing a seamless transition from primary to secondary education. She emphasised, “The well-being of the learner should always be the priority. We must be open to rethinking traditional practices in education.”
Mr Lim echoed this sentiment, advocating for an optional 10-year programme that provides students with more time to develop their potential. “Skipping high-stakes exams could be secondary to creating a nurturing environment where children can flourish,” he said.
Despite the benefits, Mr Chan outlined the complexities of such an initiative. Identifying suitable candidates at Primary 1 remains a significant hurdle, as children’s abilities and interests are not fully developed at that stage. Additionally, the popularity of specific schools could lead to overcrowding and a lack of opportunities for late bloomers.
Another concern involves social integration. “If parents commit their child to a through-train programme but later realise it’s not suitable, the absence of checkpoints like the PSLE might hinder course correction,” Mr Chan explained.
To ensure inclusivity, secondary schools offering these programmes would need extensive resources to support students with diverse learning needs. “How do we guarantee comprehensive pathways for every student admitted into the programme, regardless of their abilities?” he questioned.
Mr Chan emphasised the need for collective effort to enhance Singapore’s education system. “Reforming education requires participation from all stakeholders, including industry partners, to equip students with future-ready skills,” he said.
He concluded with a call to action: “Changing policies alone won’t reshape education. We need a mindset shift in how we define success—not just in schools but in the lifelong journey of our children.”
Singapore’s education system, he noted, must evolve to align more closely with the demands of a rapidly changing global landscape.
