Subject-Based Banding (SBB) in Singapore: A Guide for Parents & Students
Introduction
The Subject-Based Banding (SBB) system in Singapore is a major shift from the traditional streaming system, giving students the flexibility to study subjects at different levels based on their strengths. Instead of being restricted to Express, Normal (Academic), or Normal (Technical) streams, students can now customize their subject levels to match their abilities.
In this guide, we will cover:
✅ What is Subject-Based Banding (SBB)?
✅ How does SBB work in secondary schools?
✅ Benefits of SBB for students
✅ How SBB affects post-secondary education choices
✅ Best resources to support students in SBB
What is Subject-Based Banding (SBB)?
Subject-Based Banding (SBB) allows students to take subjects at different levels:
🔹 G1 (General 1) – Equivalent to the Normal (Technical) level
🔹 G2 (General 2) – Equivalent to the Normal (Academic) level
🔹 G3 (General 3) – Equivalent to the Express level
Instead of placing students into a fixed stream, SBB lets them take subjects at different levels depending on their strengths and interests.
📌 Key Differences Between SBB & Streaming:
✔ Streaming (Old System): Students were placed into Express, Normal (Academic), or Normal (Technical) streams based on PSLE results.
✔ SBB (New System): Students can take different subjects at different levels, allowing more flexibility in learning.
How Does SBB Work in Secondary Schools?
1. Subject Placement in Secondary 1
- Students are placed in mixed-form classes where they interact with peers from different learning backgrounds.
- Based on PSLE Achievement Level (AL) scores, students take subjects at G1, G2, or G3 levels.
📌 PSLE Score Guidelines for SBB Subject Placement:
- AL 4 to 20: Most subjects at G3 level
- AL 21 to 22: Subjects at G2 or G3 level
- AL 23 to 25: Subjects at G1 or G2 level
2. Adjusting Subject Levels in Secondary 2 & Beyond
- If students excel in G1 or G2 subjects, they can move up to a higher level in Secondary 2.
- If students struggle in G3 subjects, they can move down to a level that better suits their learning pace.
3. SBB and National Examinations
- Students take O-Level, N(A)-Level, or N(T)-Level exams based on their subject levels in Secondary 4 or 5.
- Those taking G2 (Normal Academic) subjects can qualify for O-Level exams if they perform well.
Benefits of Subject-Based Banding (SBB)
✔ Customized Learning Paths – Students can progress at their own pace instead of being confined to a single stream.
✔ Greater Flexibility – Stronger students can take G3 subjects, while those needing support can focus on G1 or G2 levels.
✔ Improved Social Interaction – Mixed-form classes allow students from different academic backgrounds to learn together.
✔ Better Academic & Career Progression – Students can switch subject levels, improving their chances of qualifying for Junior Colleges (JCs), Polytechnics, or ITEs.
How SBB Affects Post-Secondary Education Choices
🚀 Students taking mostly G3 subjects:
✅ Eligible for Junior Colleges (JCs) or Polytechnics.
✅ Can qualify for Direct School Admission (DSA-JC) or Early Admissions Exercise (EAE-Polytechnic).
🚀 Students taking a mix of G2 and G3 subjects:
✅ Can enter Polytechnics, ITE, or apply for O-Level pathways.
✅ Strong performance in G2 subjects may allow them to progress to Polytechnic Foundation Programme (PFP).
🚀 Students taking mostly G1 subjects:
✅ Can enter ITE courses and progress to Higher Nitec or Polytechnic pathways.
📌 Key Takeaway:
SBB expands future education options, allowing students to move up academically if they improve their subject performance.
How to Support Students in the SBB System
✔ 1. Help Them Identify Strengths & Weaknesses
- Encourage students to take G3 subjects in areas they excel in.
- Provide extra support for weaker subjects with revision guides and tutoring.
✔ 2. Encourage Independent Learning
- Use educational books, online resources, and enrichment programs to strengthen subject understanding.
- Teach students time management and study techniques to cope with different subject levels.
✔ 3. Keep an Open Mind About Career Pathways
- SBB opens multiple education routes—students should explore options in JCs, Polytechnics, and ITEs.
- Guide students in choosing subjects that align with their career goals.
Best Books to Support SBB Students
📚 Looking for top-quality assessment books for different subject levels?
✅ G1, G2, and G3 level Mathematics, Science, and English books
✅ Step-by-step solutions for difficult topics
✅ Exam-focused materials for O-Level & N-Level preparation
🚀 Buy SBB-friendly assessment books from www.cpdsingapore.com/shop to support your learning journey! 🚀
Final Thoughts
The Subject-Based Banding (SBB) system is a positive step towards personalized learning, allowing students to take subjects at different levels based on their abilities. With flexibility, social integration, and better education progression, SBB ensures every student has an equal opportunity to succeed.
💡 Want to boost your academic performance? Get SBB assessment books today and take control of your learning! 🎯