SAP Secondary Schools: What Are They And What Do They Offer?

As you explore schools in Singapore, you may have come across some schools with a programme called the Special Assistance Plan. What was once a prestigious and distinct programme which produced top-scorers and revolutionise bilingual education in Singapore, has somewhat faded from the spotlight. However, SAP schools remain some of the best secondary schools in Singapore and retains some unique features.

How much do you know about SAP schools and what they offer? If you are considering any SAP schools, do read on to find out more about this segment of schools in Singapore!

History of SAP

The introduction of the Special Assistance Plan (SAP) in 1979 aimed to preserve elite Chinese-stream schools in a time where English-medium schools were gaining favour. The initial 9 SAP secondary schools aimed to cultivate bilingual students deeply rooted in traditional Chinese values, a contrast to other schools which were then either English-stream or Chinese-stream. In 1989, SAP expanded to include 10 primary schools in 1989.

As the years went by, more schools were added to the list of SAP schools, and changes were made according to regular reviews of the programme. One of these initiatives was the Bicultural Studies Programme (BSP) which was pinoeered in 3 secondary schools in 2005. The programme was designed to nurture top bilingual students into bicultural professionals capable of effectively engaging with China. Subsequently, each school also implemented their own flagship programmes to enhance students’ appreciation of the Chinese language and deepen their understanding of traditional Chinese values.

Unique features of SAP schools

Emphasis on Chinese culture and values

SAP schools place great focus on Chinese culture and values. This may extend from their school motto and values, to the way they implement character education, and include school-wide events for commemorating special days – for example, having dumpling wrapping sessions during Dragon Boat Festival and celebrations for Mid-Autumn Festival.

Courses with a Chinese focus

SAP schools initiated the creation of their own distinctive flagship programmes centred around the study of the Chinese language, culture, and traditions. An example of this is the introduction of Media Studies in Chinese as a GCE O-Level subject by CHIJ St Nicholas Girls’ and Chung Cheng High (Main) in 2010. Furthermore, Chung Cheng High (Main) broadened its lower secondary curriculum to encompass Chinese internet broadcasting, filmmaking, and drama courses. Several primary SAP schools also embraced the teaching of non-examinable subjects such as art, music, and physical education using the Chinese language.

Bicultural Studies Programme

In 2005, the inception of the Bicultural Studies Programme (BSP) aimed to cultivate Singapore’s top bilingual students into professionals capable of effective engagement with both China and Western countries. Through an immersive Chinese curriculum complemented by trips to China, the programme aimed to instil a robust understanding of China’s history, culture, and contemporary developments, along with proficiency in the Chinese language.

The BSP began in three SAP schools with existing links with schools in China, namely, Dunman High, Nanyang Girls’ High and Chinese High (now Hwa Chong Institution). Currently, the BSP has expanded and is also run in a few non-SAP schools, such as Singapore Chinese Girls’ School.

How to get into a SAP secondary school

As SAP schools are amongst the top-ranking secondary schools in Singapore, the PSLE grades needed to enter a SAP school is very high. At minimum, students need to have good grades for English and Chinese, and their Higher Chinese grade can add ‘bonus marks’ to increase their chances of entering a SAP school.

Should you choose a SAP school? 

Compared to the yesteryears, SAP schools no longer stand out as much from other top secondary schools, apart from their emphasis on the Chinese culture and values. However, some unique offerings may still attract certain students – or drive some students away – depending on what type of school you are looking for.

Here are some factors that may affect your decision of whether to choose a SAP school:

• Chinese language ability

Students need to have good PSLE scores and good grades in English and Chinese (and/or Higher Chinese) to be qualified to enter a SAP school. For this reason, most students who can enter SAP schools are already very strong in English and Chinese. But, if for some reason, you struggle with Chinese or you do not want to take Higher Chinese in secondary school, then a SAP school is probably not for you.

• Interest in Chinese culture and values

You don’t have to be ultra-passionate about Chinese culture and values, but you shouldn’t choose a SAP school if you are extremely opposed to it. Expect to have to participate in plenty of cultural activities (think: calligraphy, wushu, Chinese chess) and to listen to speeches/classes about Chinese morals, and even be immersed in school architecture that is infused with traditional Chinese motifs and slogans.

• Intention to work in China/with Chinese counterparts

SAP schools offer many programmes and immersion trips for students who are interested in learning more about not just Chinese culture in general, but also about China’s history, literature, and economics. The Bicultural Studies Programme (BSP) is one such programme, but this is also available in some non-SAP schools. So, if you have any plans or wishes to work closely with or in China, being in a SAP school may provide you with more learning opportunities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Singapore’s Special Assistance Plan (SAP) schools continue to play an important role in fostering bilingualism, cultural depth, and academic excellence. Whether you will be enrolling in a SAP secondary school, or are currently studying in one, having a good command of both English and Chinese is essential. At Future Academy, we offer support in the form of IP English Tuition and Secondary Chinese Tuition to students who want to excel and reach their goals in secondary school. Join us to begin your journey to excellence today!