It is yet another year, and another Secondary 1 posting exercise concluded. It must be a harrowing journey for parents and students who have finally overcome the huge challenge of PSLE and their school selection! If your child has successfully gotten into their school of choice: congratulations! And for those who have not, we hope that you and your child will still be able to make the most of the situation – or find success in appealing to another school.
In fact, that’s what our guide will be touching upon. Wondering what you can do or should be doing after getting your child’s Sec 1 posting results? We know some of you may be busy getting into the festivities of Christmastime, but it’s also only a few days left before school starts – so here are some things you should be taking note of regarding your child’s new school!
Can I appeal to go to another school?
Yes, appealing to another school is possible. However, success for appealing to another school is not always guaranteed.
Your child’s results must be within the cut-off point for the school, and the school you appeal to must have available vacancies for them to consider your appeal. If you feel like you have a very compelling reason to appeal, you can try your luck by filing an appeal.
Bear in mind that the appeal process will be ongoing in January. Your child should still attend school at their posted secondary school in case the appeal takes a while to be approved or is not successful.
Appealing for medical reasons
Students with medical conditions that require special arrangements at school can appeal if they judge that their posted secondary school is unable to meet their needs. If your appeal falls under this category, you should file your appeal with your child’s posted secondary school in person by 12pm of the day following the release of school posting results.
Appealing for non-medical reasons
If you want to appeal for other reasons, you can do so by applying directly to your preferred school. Different schools may have different appeal processes and requirements. Do check with the school’s website or enquire directly with them for instructions on how to appeal. And, act fast! Some of the school’s close their appeals as quickly as 1 day after the posting results are released.
Does my child need to report to their secondary school before school officially starts?
There is no need to report to the secondary school in person until the first day of school. Parents should check the posted school’s website or Parents Gateway for information on what to prepare and when their child should report in school.
When is the first day of school in 2024?
The first day of school is Tuesday, 2 January 2024.
Students should report to their posted secondary school, even if they are appealing to another school. If your child is unable to be present for any valid reason (e.g. medical reasons), you should contact the school to notify them and confirm if you will be taking the place.
How do I get updates from my child’s new school?
You can find most of the information you need from your child’s school website or through Parents Gateway. They should include information about:
- Reporting details
- Orientation activities
- Book list and uniform purchase
What do I need to prepare for the new school year?
You will need to purchase your child’s new school uniform and books. Refer to your child’s posted school website to get instructions on how to purchase these.
Additionally, we recommend preparing your child for the new school year in a new environment by:
- Adjusting their sleeping schedule one week before school starts
- Familiarising them with their commute to school (especially if they are taking public transport by themselves)
- Speak to your child and let them express how they feel about the upcoming new school experience
Excel in the new school year with Future Academy
Getting promoted to secondary school also means it’s time to hunt for a new tuition teacher! It’s better to start early and shortlist your potential tutors before your favourite timings and tutors are fully occupied.
Future Academy has a team of experienced and qualified tutors coming from NIE-trained and MOE teaching backgrounds teaching popular subjects like IP Math Tuition. They have a fantastic track record working with students from top schools, IP schools, and other Express stream students to help them improve their confidence in their studies through IP Science Tuition and other tuition classes.
Start your child’s secondary school journey right. Contact us today to schedule your class!