Last Updated: 23 Aug 2024
Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDE)
3. Selection process
The selection process is made up of 3 components, which may not take place in sequence. The components are:
- Selection interview
- Entrance proficiency tests (EPTs)
- Medical examination
Selection interview
If you are shortlisted, you will receive an interview invitation with the following information:
- Teaching subjects you have been shortlisted for.
- Interview details.
- Required documents to bring to the interview.
The interview includes two written tasks, a short presentation and a discussion with the interview panel. If you are shortlisted for teaching a Mother Tongue Language (MTL), you will be required to respond to the scenario question and complete the short presentation in your respective MTL.
Depending on our organisational needs, we might assign you a different subject from what you had applied for. If so, please consider your interest and aptitude in the assigned subjects before accepting the interview invitation.
Entrance proficiency tests (EPT)
You may be required to sit for certain EPTs at the Ministry’s discretion. This does not indicate that you are successful in your application.
You will not need to register for the tests independently. Should you be required to take any, we will make the arrangements and email the following details to you 1 week before the test date:
- Test date and time
- Venue
- Payment details
Note: The test fee is non-refundable; no refund of payment will be given for those who are absent or withdraw from the test. We are also unable to reschedule test dates, except under extraordinary circumstances.
Who is it for
All applicants, unless exempted.
What’s on the test
Speaking component (20 minutes)
You will need to read a passage aloud and deliver a monologue, followed by a few minutes of dialogue with the examiner.
Writing component (100 minutes)
You will need to complete a piece of situational writing (200-300 words), followed by a short expository essay (450 words).
Test format and sample paper for the EL EPT.
Cost
$110 (inclusive of GST)
Test results
You will receive your Statement of Results about 4 weeks after the test date. Test results cannot be reviewed.
Who is it for
All applicants being considered for teaching of an MTL, unless exempted.
What is on the test
There will be a speaking component and a writing component where you will be tested on your knowledge of:
- Grammar
- Vocabulary usage
- Stylistic features of the language
Cost
$145 (inclusive of GST)
Test results
You will receive your Statement of Results about 4 weeks after the test date. Test results cannot be reviewed.
Who is it for
All applications being considered for teaching Physical Education.
When is the test
The Physical Proficiency Test (PPT) will be held on the following dates (subject to change):
- 1 Mar 2024
- 26 Jun 2024
- 2 Oct 2024
Applicants who are required to sit for the PPT will be notified at least 2 weeks before the test date.
Please note that only those who have successfully registered for the PPT should take the test.
What is on the test
You will be tested in the following 5 components, and you are required to pass all of them:
- Agility run
- Badminton
- Possession game
- Gymnastics
- Swimming
Cost
$10.90 (inclusive of GST)
Test results
You will receive your Statement of Result about 2 weeks after the test date. Tests results cannot be reviewed.
Who is it for
All applicants being considered for teaching of Music.
What is on the test
Music
You will be made to go through an audition which comprises of the following:
- A solo performance (with accompanist/s where applicable) on an instrument (or voice) of one or two prepared pieces amounting to 3-5 minutes from any genre/style.
- Musicianship tests which may include:
i. Aural skills (e.g., singing back a melody that was played)
ii. Accompanying/improvising using pitched/unpitched instrument from any musical tradition
iii. Music theory
- A brief interview
Applicants are encouraged to submit a music portfolio documenting their music/music education/relevant music-industrial experiences. These may include but are not limited to:
- Evidence of active practical experience in music making (e.g., Western, Indian, Chinese, and Malay Music, Pop/Jazz, Concert Band, Choir);
- Presentation/s of compositions/arrangements/remixes if this is an area of interest and strength (all forms of notation and audio-visual files are acceptable);
- Music certificates
Applicants who do not have documentary evidence of their relevant musical experiences can share about them during the audition/interview and may be requested to articulate their knowledge or demonstrate the appropriate skills.
Medical examination
You will be required to undergo a medical examination, paid for by the Ministry. Instructions and details will be sent to you in time. Please go for the medical examination as soon as possible to facilitate the processing of your application.
Note: Undergoing the medical examination does not indicate that you have been selected for appointment.
Selection outcome
For those who have gone through the selection interview, you can expect to hear from us within 4 – 5 weeks. If you have not received an update from us on your application status, we seek your understanding. We are still processing your application and will get back to you at the earliest opportunity.
If you are selected for the next step
Should you clear the necessary selection components and are selected, you will receive:
- An Offer of Appointment to your compulsory contract teaching stint.
- An invitation to attend the appointment briefing.
If your application is unsuccessful, we will inform you via email.