Starting from 2024, students in Singapore will no longer be streamed into Express, Normal (Academic) and Normal (Technical) classes based solely on their Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE) scores. Instead, a new system known as subject-based banding will be introduced to better recognise and cater to students’ different strengths.
Education Minister Ong Ye Kung announced in Parliament that the current Express and Normal streams would be phased out and replaced with General 1 (G1), General 2 (G2) and General 3 (G3) subject bands. Students with ALs of 4 to 20 will be able to take the G3 suite of subjects, which is the highest level and is similar to the current Express stream. Those who score 23 to 24 will be able to take the G2 suite of subjects, while those who score 26 to 30 will take on the G1 suite of subjects.
Students will be able to take a mix of G1 to G3 subjects. Students who excel in certain PSLE subjects can take them at a higher level from the start of Sec 1, regardless of their total AL score. They will also have the option of taking subjects at higher levels progressively in their secondary schools.
This new system aims to reduce the stigma of being streamed as “Normal” and allow students to learn at their own pace while recognising their different strengths. It also provides more flexibility and opportunities for students to explore their interests and pursue their aspirations.
Watch this video to learn more about the new subject-based banding system: