Starting in 2024, Singapore’s education landscape is set for a significant change as the Ministry of Education (MOE) transitions away from the Gifted Education Programme (GEP), which has been in place since 1984. Education Minister Desmond Lee announced this shift on 3 March 2024, stating that the new approach aims to provide greater access to advanced learning opportunities for high-ability students.
New Designated Centres for Advanced Learning
Instead of requiring students to transfer to GEP schools, 15 primary schools will serve as designated centres for advanced enrichment modules in English, mathematics, and science, accessible after school for two hours each week. The selected schools are:
- Ahmad Ibrahim Primary
- Clementi Primary
- Geylang Methodist School
- Innova Primary
- Jurong West Primary
- Kheng Cheng School
- Palm View Primary
- Pioneer Primary
- Punggol View Primary
- Queenstown Primary
- St Gabriel’s Primary
- Tampines Primary
- Teck Ghee Primary
- Yew Tee Primary
- Yu Neng Primary School
These schools were carefully chosen to ensure good geographic spread and accessibility via public transport. The selection will be reviewed periodically to respond to demographic shifts.
Broadening Access and Emphasising Curiosity
Under this refreshed model, approximately 10% of the student cohort will have access to these high-ability programmes, which target students with strengths in specific areas. Unlike the GEP, the new modules do not tie into the national curriculum, and participation is entirely optional.
Desmond Lee emphasised that these advanced modules aim to cultivate curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking, rather than merely boosting examination performance. The modules are designed to allow students with varied strengths—such as being strong in English but not in mathematics—to engage meaningfully with the programme.
Changes in Selection Process
This new initiative also redefines how students will be identified for advanced modules. Starting in August 2024, Primary 3 students will participate in a standardised assessment designed to evaluate their potential through a simplified, one-stage approach.
In addition to test scores, teachers will observe and nominate students based on their overall attitude towards learning and unique skills. This means that students may enter or exit the programme depending on their interests and commitments throughout their primary schooling.
A New Era in Education
The GEP’s discontinuation marks a significant shift in Singapore’s educational ethos. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong’s announcement during the 2024 National Day Rally emphasised a commitment to nurturing talent across all primary schools, breaking the confines of elitism previously associated with the GEP.
As the MOE rolls out this new framework, the focus will remain on making advanced learning accessible while fostering a generation of inquisitive and capable learners ready to tackle the challenges of the future.