If your child is in Primary 6 and considering the Integrated Programme (IP) for their secondary school journey, attending an IP open house is a great way to explore different schools and find the best fit. The IP is a 6-year academic pathway that bypasses the O-Level examinations, leading directly to qualifications such as the A-Levels or International Baccalaureate (IB).
To help parents and students make informed decisions, we've compiled a list of upcoming IP Open House dates. Mark your calendars and take this opportunity to experience each school's unique offerings firsthand!
IP School | Open house date |
Nanyang Girls’ High School | April 5th |
School of the Arts | April 5th |
Singapore Sports School | April 5th |
Anglo-Chinese School (Independent) | April 12th |
River Valley High School | April 26th |
Methodist Girls’ School | April 26th |
CHIJ St Nicholas Girls’ School | May 3rd |
Raffles Institution | May 10th |
St Josephs’ Institution | May 17th |
Cedar Girls’ Secondary School | May 18th |
Raffles Girls’ School | May 24th |
NUS High School of Mathematics and Science | May 24th |
Victoria School | May 24th |
Hwa Chong Institution | May 24th |
Singapore Chinese Girls’ School | May 24th |
School of Science and Technology | May 31st |
Dunman High School | Over |
Eunonia JC | Over |
Temasek JC | Over |
Victoria JC | Over |
Additionally, as a parent, you play a key role in guiding your child through this decision and here’s how you can help them make the most of the open house season and choose the right IP school:
1. Understanding the IP Education Approach
The IP programme is designed for academically strong students who thrive in an independent learning environment. It offers a more flexible curriculum with a strong emphasis on research, critical thinking, public speaking, and effective communication, as well as interdisciplinary enrichment activities. If your child is self-motivated, enjoys exploring topics in depth, and would benefit from a pathway that bypasses the O-Levels, the IP programme could be an excellent choice.
2. Matching your child’s strengths and weaknesses to specific IP School Programme Offerings
Each IP school has its own strengths, special programmes, and school culture. Some schools have a strong focus on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics), while others excel in humanities, the arts, or leadership development.
As a parent, you can help your child explore their interests and learning preferences by discussing what excites them academically and what type of school environment they thrive in, encouraging them to reflect on questions like:
Do they prefer a structured or flexible learning environment?
Are they more inclined towards science, humanities, or the arts?
Do they enjoy project-based learning, research, and independent exploration?
Researching different schools' IP offerings together and attending open houses will help you and your child find a programme that best matches their strengths and aspirations.
3. Research Schools Before Visiting
Before attending open houses, we highly encourage parents to do some research on the different IP schools available.
Visit school websites, review their Direct School Admission (DSA) criteria, and explore their unique programmes. This will help you ask more informed questions and focus on what truly matters for your child’s education.
Since the IP programme is a 6-year long education journey, it is important to look beyond just the Secondary School experience to consider the opportunities available at the Junior College (JC) level as well.
It is important to check out the school’s JC curriculum and subject combination offerings, scholarship pathways, and university admission track records. Reading testimonials from seniors and alumni can also provide valuable insights into whether the school’s environment will support your child’s growth over the full six years. A well-rounded understanding of both the Secondary and JC experience will help you determine if your child will thrive in that school’s IP programme.
4. Attend Open Houses with a Plan
Make a list of the IP schools you and your child are considering and plan your visits accordingly. During the open house, be sure to:
Attend principal talks to gain a deeper understanding of the school’s philosophy and vision.
Speak with students and teachers to learn about their experiences and insights into the school culture.
Explore the school environment and facilities to assess whether it aligns with your child’s needs.
Find out about the available Co-Curricular Activities (CCAs) and special programmes that could complement your child’s interests and development.
Inquire about student support services and the subject combinations offered, to ensure they match your child’s academic strengths and future goals.
By being proactive and gathering detailed information as parents, you can make a more informed decision alongside your child about which school will best support your their educational journey.
5. Your child’s opinion matters!
Most importantly, your child’s opinions and preferences play a crucial role in choosing the right IP school.
While you can provide guidance and support as parents, it is important to consider what excites and motivates your child. After all, they will be the ones navigating the next six years of their academic journey. A school that aligns with their interests, learning style, and personal goals will foster a more fulfilling and successful experience.
By involving your child in the decision-making process, you also help them to take ownership of their education and empower them to thrive.
Lastly, while the IP is an excellent pathway, do note that it is not the only one. If both you and your child are unsure, consider applying for both IP and O-Level tracks and decide based on your child’s PSLE results and preferences.
We're wishing you all the very best, and above everything else, remember to enjoy the process of getting to know your child while navigating and exploring future academic pathways together.
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