Subject-Based Banding (SBB) in Singapore: A Guide for Parents and Students
Introduction
The Subject-Based Banding (SBB) system in Singapore is a key initiative introduced by the Ministry of Education (MOE) to offer students greater flexibility in their learning journey. It replaces the previous streaming system (Express, Normal Academic, Normal Technical) by allowing students to take subjects at different levels based on their strengths and interests.
This personalized approach helps students progress at a pace that suits them while ensuring they receive the necessary support in subjects they find challenging.
In this guide, we will cover:
✅ What is Subject-Based Banding (SBB)?
✅ How does SBB work in secondary schools?
✅ Benefits of SBB for students
✅ Frequently asked questions about SBB
What is Subject-Based Banding (SBB)?
Subject-Based Banding (SBB) was introduced to provide a more flexible and inclusive education system. Instead of being placed in a fixed academic stream, students can choose subject levels based on their abilities and performance.
Previously, students were divided into:
🔹 Express (fastest academic track)
🔹 Normal (Academic) (N(A))
🔹 Normal (Technical) (N(T))
With SBB, students are no longer locked into a fixed stream and can take subjects at G1 (General 1), G2 (General 2), or G3 (General 3) levels, depending on their capabilities.
How Does SBB Work in Secondary Schools?
1. Lower Secondary (Secondary 1 & 2)
- Students entering Secondary 1 are placed into mixed form classes with peers of diverse abilities.
- Instead of being streamed into Express, N(A), or N(T), students take subjects at different levels:
✅ G3 Level (Previously Express level)
✅ G2 Level (Previously N(A) level)
✅ G1 Level (Previously N(T) level) - Subject Placement Criteria (PSLE Score)
- Students with AL 4 to 20 can take subjects at G3 level.
- Students with AL 21 to 25 may take subjects at G2 or G1 level.
- Students can take a mix of G1, G2, and G3 subjects depending on their strengths.
2. Subject-Based Banding for Upper Secondary (Sec 3 & 4)
- At Secondary 2, students are given a chance to adjust their subject levels based on their performance.
- Students can take O-Level or N-Level subjects depending on their abilities.
- For students doing well at G1 or G2 levels, they can opt to upgrade to G2 or G3 subjects.
Benefits of Subject-Based Banding (SBB)
✔ More Flexibility – Students can take a mix of subjects at different levels instead of being restricted by a fixed stream.
✔ Better Learning Experience – Students study at a pace that suits them, reducing stress while still challenging themselves in stronger subjects.
✔ Smoother Progression to Post-Secondary Education – With SBB, students can build a strong foundation in subjects they excel in and take them at higher levels. This improves their eligibility for Junior Colleges (JCs), Polytechnics, and Institutes of Technical Education (ITE).
✔ Encourages Growth Mindset – SBB allows students to move up in subjects when they improve, fostering a positive learning attitude.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about SBB
1. Can students switch to a higher or lower subject level after Sec 1?
✅ Yes! If a student performs well in their subjects, they can move to a higher level (e.g., from G2 to G3). Similarly, if a student struggles, they may move to a lower level to ensure better understanding.
2. Will my child still be able to take O-Level exams under SBB?
✅ Yes! Students who take subjects at G3 level will sit for the GCE O-Level exams, while those at G2 level will take N(A) Level exams.
3. How are classes structured in an SBB school?
✅ Instead of fixed streams, students are in mixed-form classes for subjects like Character & Citizenship Education (CCE) and Physical Education (PE). They attend different classes for subjects based on their subject banding.
4. What happens if my child struggles with G3-level subjects?
✅ Schools will monitor student progress and provide opportunities for adjusting subject levels if necessary.
5. How will SBB affect post-secondary school choices?
✅ Students taking subjects at G3 level will have more options for Junior College (JC), Polytechnics, or IB Diploma programs.
✅ Students taking G2 level subjects can apply to Polytechnics or ITE courses.
Final Thoughts
The Subject-Based Banding (SBB) system is designed to create a more inclusive, flexible, and personalized learning experience for students in Singapore. Instead of being locked into rigid academic streams, students can take subjects at levels that best match their strengths and learning needs.
🚀 Want to help your child prepare for secondary school? Buy top-quality assessment books for Mathematics, Science, and English from www.cpdsingapore.com/shop to support their learning journey!