Start of streaming in secondary schools
In the 1970s, many students had difficulty finishing primary school and were dropping out. Streaming was introduced to cater to the different learning paces of students. This reduced the drop-out rate significantly.
Subject-Based Banding (Secondary)
SBB (Sec) allowed students to take English Language, Mathematics, Science and Mother Tongue Language at a more demanding level when they enter Secondary 1, based on their performance in these subjects at the PSLE.
As they progress in their secondary education, those who do well in school-based assessments in these subjects can take that subject at a more demanding level.
Full Subject-Based Banding (Full SBB): Pilot Phase and Roll-Out
With encouraging results from students taking SBB(Sec) at their O- and N-Level examinations, as well as positive feedback from students, parents and teachers, MOE had decided to expand SBB(Sec) to Full SBB.
Full SBB was piloted in 28 secondary schools from 2020. It is being progressively rolled out to more secondary schools each year between 2022 and 2024.
Full SBB in secondary schools
With Full SBB in secondary schools, students will have greater flexibility to study more subjects at different levels that suit their interests, aptitude and learning needs. There will no longer be separate Express, N(A), and N(T) streams, and students will be in mixed form classes where they can interact with peers of different strengths and interests.
Every child will continue to have access to opportunities, throughout their education journey, to develop their unique talents and fulfil their potential in life.
