Brighton College Singapore vs Canadian International School

Brighton College Singapore

Instructs in English

Ages 1½ - 18 years

Fees SGD 27,282 - 57,048

Pupils 500

Type Co-educational

Brighton College (Singapore) is an international school offering the British curriculum. It serves children from 18 months to 18 years, covering Pre-Nursery to A-levels. Opened in 2020, it is the fifth campus in the Brighton College network, building on the heritage of the UK’s Brighton College established in 1845. The school is located in central Singapore and provides academic, sporting, and creative activities. Pupils learn under trained teachers who follow approaches adapted from Brighton College UK. A distinguishing feature is integration with its UK counterpart, which enables collaborative projects and shared learning between students in Singapore and Britain.

Location

Brighton College is located at 1 Chuan Lane, in a residential neighborhood near Serangoon Gardens. It is a short walk from Lorong Chuan MRT station on the Circle Line, and bus services are also available for convenient commutes. The surrounding area offers a variety of amenities for families, including shops and dining options.

Stages

Brighton College welcomes children from 18 months to 18 years old. The school is structured into Pre-Prep (Pre-Nursery through Year 2), Prep School (Year 3 to Year 6), Senior School (Year 7 to Year 10), and Sixth Form.

Type

Brighton College (Singapore) is a co-educational day school with no boarding options.

Country affiliation

Brighton College (Singapore) is affiliated with Brighton College in the United Kingdom.

School day structure

Brighton College typically starts at 9 a.m. and ends between 3:30 p.m. and 3:45 p.m., depending on the year group. There is a short mid-morning break and a lunch break around midday.

Bus service

Brighton College (Singapore) provides a home-to-school bus service for pupils ranging from the Pre-Prep School (starting at 18 months) to the Senior School (up to Year 13). The service is managed by BT and Tan, ensuring safe and efficient transportation for students.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

Brighton College nurtures SEL through the Personal, Social, Health, and Moral Education (PSHME) curriculum. This program equips students with the skills and confidence to lead healthy and independent lives. Weekly PSHME sessions and thematic assemblies encourage discussions on topics such as relationships, safety, and well-being, fostering self-awareness and resilience. The school also offers various leadership opportunities, rotating roles each term to ensure every pupil experiences leadership. Well-being Ambassadors collaborate with younger students, promoting kindness and support throughout the community.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

Brighton College is committed to supporting pupils with diverse learning needs. The school has a Head of Additional Educational Needs (AEN) who provides support within the classroom setting for children with specific needs. While the school offers this support, it is not classified as a specialist SEN institution. Prospective parents are encouraged to contact the Admissions team for detailed information regarding the support available for children with special educational needs.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

Brighton College offers comprehensive English as an Additional Language (EAL) support for pupils in Years 1 to 7. The Preparatory Course provides intensive English language training across reading, writing, listening, and speaking for beginners to ease their transition into mainstream classes. Intermediate-level pupils receive tailored support within mainstream classrooms from EAL specialists who collaborate closely with class teachers. The programme is managed by dedicated EAL specialists.

Mental Wellbeing

A dedicated pastoral care programme emphasizes qualities such as honesty, good manners, and empathy, celebrating each child's unique strengths and efforts. Spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development is embedded within the school ethos, with assemblies drawing on diverse ideas to reinforce values like curiosity, confidence, and kindness. The pastoral team supports both academic and personal growth, offering guidance to pupils, parents, and teachers. Additionally, 'Brighton Talks' workshops are available for parents, covering topics like online safety awareness, sleep hygiene, and positive reinforcement, led by staff and guest speakers.

Safeguarding

The safety and well-being of pupils are paramount at Brighton College (Singapore). The school has implemented comprehensive safeguarding policies and procedures to ensure a secure environment. Access to the school premises is closely monitored with a 24-hour security presence and over 60 surveillance cameras operating continuously. A signing-in system and color-coded lanyard protocol enable easy identification of all adults on site. All individuals working with pupils, including visiting professionals, undergo appropriate checks or supervision.

History

Founded in 1845 by William Aldwin Soames, Brighton College was the first independent school established in Sussex, UK. The Singapore campus, opened in August 2020, upholds the traditions and values of its parent institution while catering to the unique cultural context of Singapore.

Community

Brighton College fosters a vibrant and inclusive community that brings together pupils, parents, and staff. The school celebrates cultural diversity through events like Cultural Diversity Day, where the community engages in various activities to honor different traditions and backgrounds. Additionally, the school offers over 100 co-curricular activities (CCAs), including sports, arts, music, and drama, providing pupils with opportunities to explore new passions and develop their talents. Regular social events, such as Christmas parties and summer carnivals, are organized to foster a sense of belonging and support within the tight-knit community.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

At Brighton College, all parents and teachers are integral members of the Brighton Society, the school's Parent Teacher Association. This society organizes regular events to facilitate social interactions and strengthen community bonds. Workshops are organized for parents across a variety of topics, including supporting children’s reading, positive behavior management, and how to support young children, among others.

Gallery

Parents attend class for the 'Stay and Play' morning in the Early Years program (credit Brighton College Facebook)

Brighton College came together for HelloYellow, a day promoting student wellbeing and mental health (credit Brighton College Facebook)

The school community held a bake sale on Global Be Well Day, with the donations going to Club Rainbow who support children with chronic illnesses and their families. (credit Brighton College Facebook)

New pupils and families are welcomed to campus on the first day of school (credit Brighton College Facebook)

Facilities Overview

The spaces have been designed by award-winning architects to be more than functional: they inspire both pupils and teachers. The Pre-Prep facilities feature bright classrooms, sensory spaces and a dedicated Makerspace. In Pre-Prep, specialist lessons include Mandarin, music, PE, art, swimming and drama. The Senior School includes a science laboratory. A virtual tour is available to view classrooms and spaces.

Sports Facilities

The PE curriculum is progressive and develops fundamental skills while promoting sportsmanship, teamwork, and respect. CCAs are offered from Reception, with termly house competitions, swim galas and sports days to build community and participation. Termly field trips to parks, museums and cultural events connect classroom learning to physical activity. Pupils join one of four Houses and compete in sporting activities.

Academic Facilities

Pre-Prep facilities include bright classrooms, sensory spaces and a dedicated Makerspace. Specialist lessons include Mandarin, music, PE, art, swimming and drama. The Senior School includes a science laboratory for practical work. A virtual tour is available to view classrooms and spaces.

Extra Curricular Facilities

Beyond the Classroom for Pre-Prep includes field trips, outdoor education and community projects. Field trips connect classroom learning to real-world experiences, such as visits to the S.E.A. Aquarium and the Singapore Zoo. CCAs and termly house competitions, swim galas and sports days foster community spirit. Specialist lessons include Mandarin, music, PE, art, swimming, dance and drama. The Pelican Pathway rewards pupils for demonstrating our core values.

Academic & Intellectual

Brighton College (Singapore) offers academic clubs including Cryptic Puzzle Solving, Egyptology, Linguistics Club, and Brighton Ink (the school magazine). Pupils can compete in Linguistic Olympiad, Young Musician of the Year, F1 in Schools, and UK Mathematics Challenges. These opportunities extend learning beyond the classroom and connect pupils with global contexts.

Arts & Creative

The Performing Arts are central, with specialist teaching in music, drama, and dance and annual productions that build confidence and collaboration. The Creative Arts programme covers Visual Arts and Design & Technology, with hands-on projects that develop creativity and practical skills. These arts strands complement the academic curriculum.

Cultural & Language

Linguistics Club and Egyptology are among the cultural and language offerings in the Senior School, alongside Brighton Ink, the school magazine. They provide opportunities to explore language, culture, and communication. These activities broaden global perspectives.

Social & Hobbies

Brighton College (Singapore) offers more than 100 co-curricular activities (CCAs) across the College, including sports, arts, music, and clubs. CCAs foster creativity, collaboration, and leadership. They support students in discovering passions and talents.

Community & Service

Outdoor education, field trips, and community projects are integral to learning, with Pre-Prep incorporating field trips and community engagement. The Senior School includes a Sustainability Club and termly trips, connecting study with real-world contexts. These experiences build responsibility and service-minded attitudes.

Leadership & Professional

CCAs provide leadership opportunities; there are more than 100 CCAs across the College. Pupils take on roles within clubs, developing teamwork, project management, and professional skills.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing

Sports are accessible to all pupils through Sport for All, with pathways for those who excel and coaching on state-of-the-art facilities. The Brighton Games in Thailand brings together pupils from Brighton College schools to compete in various sports. The school emphasises pastoral care to support wellbeing.

Awards

HoneyKids Asia Education Awards 2024: Brighton College secured three awards at the HoneyKids Asia Education Awards 2024, reflecting its commitment to excellence in education.

Best Small School of Singapore: The school has been recognized as the Best Small School of Singapore, highlighting its exceptional educational offerings and community environment despite its smaller size.

Digital Technology in Learning Gold Award: This award acknowledges the school's innovative integration of digital technology into its learning environment, preparing students for a technologically advanced future.

Accreditations

Committee for Private Education (CPE) Registration: Brighton College is registered with the Committee for Private Education (CPE), part of SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG), ensuring the institution meets Singapore's regulatory standards for private education providers.

EduTrust Certification: This certification recognizes private education institutions in Singapore that have achieved high standards in key areas of management and provision of educational services.

Admissions

doris recommends that you start by speaking to admissions. This connects you directly to the school's admissions team who can respond with answers, more information, and next steps.

Attend an Open House or School Tour: Prospective families are encouraged to book a school tour or attend an open house to experience the school environment and facilities first-hand. This helps families understand the school’s ethos, meet key staff, and ask any specific questions.

Submit Application and Required Documents: After visiting, families should complete an application form and submit the necessary documentation, such as previous school reports, student passports, and any other requested documentation. A non-refundable application fee is typically required at this stage.

Assessment and Interview: Depending on the child's age, the admissions team may request an assessment or interview to better understand their learning profile and placement suitability. The format varies by year group and may involve academic or informal assessments.

Offer and Acceptance: Once the admissions process is completed and if places are available, the school will issue a formal offer letter. Families will be asked to review and formally accept the offer within a specified timeframe, usually involving payment of enrolment and tuition fees.

Orientation and Preparation: After accepting a place, the school provides orientation materials, schedules, and guidance on settling into school life. Staff offer ongoing support to ensure a smooth transition for new students and families relocating to Singapore.

Scholarships

Brighton College (Singapore) offers Senior School Academic Scholarships for exceptional pupils applying to Years 7–10. These scholarships recognize academic excellence and provide opportunities for talented students to join the school's Senior School program.

Waitlist

Brighton College (Singapore) operates a waitlist for year levels that are fully subscribed. If a place is not immediately available for a prospective pupil, parents may choose to have their child placed on the waitlist.

In such cases, the Enrolment Fee and Development Fund are refundable if the school cannot offer a place and the applicant elects not to be placed on the waitlist. The school maintains a student-based insurance policy for every student, consistent with the Committee for Private Education (CPE) Scheme minimum requirements, covering school-based activities and needs.

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Canadian International School

Our Outdoor Discovery Centre is a 2600 sqm living breathing classroom

Our Early Years children exploring the Outdoor Discovery Centre

Our Secondary students in action on the rugby field

Instructs in English, French, Mandarin

Ages 1½ - 18 years

Fees SGD 19,260 - 49,610

Pupils 3000

Type Co-educational

Canadian International School in Singapore offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum, including the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and the IB Diploma Programme (DP). The campus features well-equipped science labs, an expansive swimming pool, and a spacious theatre. A standout feature of the school is its emphasis on environmental education, demonstrated through initiatives like the Eco-Schools program. The school also hosts annual theatrical and musical productions and encourages international collaboration with student exchange programs and global competitions.

Location

The Canadian International School (CIS) is located in Jurong West. The school is well-connected by public transport, located near Lakeside MRT station. The area offers a welcoming environment for families, with a range of amenities and residential options nearby.

Stages

The Canadian International School in Singapore is structured into three main sections: the Primary School (Kindergarten to Grade 6), the Middle School (Grades 7 to 8), and the High School (Grades 9 to 12).

Type

Canadian International School in Singapore is a co-educational day school. The school does not offer boarding facilities.

Pupil Nationality Mix

The Canadian International School (CIS) is Canadian at heart but global in outlook with nearly 3000 students from 70 nations. Working together with people from other backgrounds and cultures is an integral part of life at CIS.

Additional learning support

The Canadian International School in Singapore offers support for students with Additional Learning Needs through its Learning Support Team. This includes tailored interventions and individualized support plans to help students succeed. The school also provides access to facilities equipped for specialized learning and resources for students requiring extra assistance.

Country affiliation

Canadian International School in Singapore is affiliated with Canada, offering a curriculum that incorporates elements of the Canadian educational system.

Religious affiliation

Canadian International School in Singapore is not affiliated with any particular religion, offering a secular education environment for students from diverse backgrounds.

School day structure

At the Canadian International School in Singapore, the school day typically begins at 8:30 AM and concludes at 3:30 PM. Students have a morning break, lunch around midday, and a short afternoon break.

Bus service

The Canadian International School (CIS) in Singapore offers a comprehensive school bus service for its students, accommodating families across the island. This service is managed by Yeap Transport Pte Ltd, a reputable provider known for safety and reliability. The buses are equipped with seat belts and a GPS tracking system, ensuring convenience and peace of mind for parents. Various pick-up and drop-off points are strategically located, making it easier for families residing in different parts of Singapore.

Boarding Arrangements

CIS has an arrangement with ACS Oldham Hall in Singapore for boarding. Oldham Hall provides accommodation for students aged 12 years and up with a staff-to-boarder ratio of 1:12 and offers a door-to-door CIS bus service. Pastoral care is provided by residential house masters and mistresses, and on-site facilities include a gym, swimming pool, study rooms and wireless internet.

Uniform Requirement

All students wear a uniform. Uniforms can be purchased at Lim Meng Keng Department Store in Holland Village. The uniform includes polo shirts, Bermuda shorts or skirts and PE shirts, with additional house league shirts as required.

Food Options

Sodexo operates the CIS canteen; the Red Dot Café serves meals, hot and cold drinks, and breakfast on school days. Two large canteens operate on school days from 11:30am to 1:40pm, and a level-5 café runs for extended hours; the menu includes Asian dishes, curries, pasta, pizza, plant-based meals, and halal-certified meat with no pork or lard. Lunch for Nursery to Senior Kindergarten is included in school fees; Grades 4–12 pay for meals using stored-value cards.

House System

The school uses a house system to build a sense of belonging and pride among students from Grades 1 to 12. House events are regularly held, and house captains lead activities to foster teamwork and leadership.

Governance and Ownership

The school is incorporated as Canadian International School Pte. Ltd., a private limited company in Singapore.

Curriculum

The Canadian International School (CIS) in Singapore offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum across all educational stages. For students aged 3 to 12 years, the Primary Years Programme (PYP) encourages inquiry-based learning. The Middle Years Programme (MYP) follows for ages 11 to 16, focusing on developing interdisciplinary skills and critical thinking. For ages 16 to 18, the Diploma Programme (DP) offers a wide range of subjects, preparing students for university education globally. Additionally, CIS offers language acquisition programs, including French, Mandarin, and English, enhancing language skills from an early age.

Student Teacher Ratio

All classes are staffed to ensure an optimal learning environment. As in all international school settings, the number of students in a class will fluctuate throughout the academic year - in line with demand and peak periods for admission and withdrawal.

In the kindergarten years, teachers are supported by two full-time instructional assistants in nursery and one full-time instructional assistant in pre-kindergarten, junior and senior kindergarten, allowing teachers to focus on each child’s emotional and social well-being.

Our bilingual classes (pre-kindergarten to grade 6) have two teachers per class. Students will learn in Chinese one day, and in English the next. In addition to the teacher, each class is supported by an instructional assistant.

Exam Results

The Canadian International School (CIS) is a leading world IB school. with IB results consistently above the global average. in 2025 the CIS IB average score was 35 compared to a global average of 30.6. This score is 38.7 for their 60th percentile. 22 students achieved 40+ points in 2025.

Higher Education Progression

At Canadian International School (CIS), recent IB Diploma results are consistently strong and above global averages: the Class of 2025 achieved an average score of 35 (global average 30.58), with 22 students scoring 40+ points, 35 Bilingual Diplomas, and a selective-intake equivalent average of 38.7 for the top 60% of students; the Class of 2024 also averaged 35 (global 30.32) with a 99% pass rate, 2 students scoring a perfect 45, 25 scoring 40+, 38 scoring 38+, and about 35% earning the Bilingual Diploma; earlier results such as the Class of 2020 showed an average of 37.9 (global 33) with a 100% pass rate, 5 perfect 45s, 9 scores of 44, 37% scoring 40+, and a notably high 74.4% Bilingual Diploma rate compared with about 24% globally, highlighting CIS’s strong academic performance and emphasis on multilingual achievement.

Gifted and Talented

Students from grades 7 to 10 who participated in the 2024 Singapore and Asian Schools Math Olympiad (SASMO) brought home 48 medals: 12 gold, 16 silver and 20 bronze. They also won nine medals in the Singapore Math Olympiad (SMO), a commendable performance in a challenging environment.

In addition, the Class of 2024 achieved two perfect scores of 45 and a school average of 35 for their IB exam. They surpassed the global average by an astounding 4.8 points. 33% of their graduating cohort received the prestigious Bilingual Diploma. Many of them are heading to top universities around the world including Cambridge University, Stanford and Imperial College London.

A testament to continued academic excellence, 50 of their students also participated in the prestigious 3rd Global Chinese Writing Competition and won awards across the global and regional categories. Some of whom won championship titles as well.

Academic calendar

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

CIS places a strong emphasis on students' social and emotional well-being. In primary school, homeroom teachers provide pastoral and emotional support, while in secondary school, advisory teachers deliver a dedicated pastoral care programme. The student support and well-being team, comprising a school psychologist, counsellors, learning support teachers, university advisors, and nurses, offers programmes throughout the year to help students develop skills to manage their well-being. Initiatives include "Sunshine visits" for new students, weekly meetings to monitor individual progress, and educational seminars for students and parents.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

CIS supports students with Special Educational Needs (SEN) through its tiered learning support model. The school is not a specialist SEN institution but provides support for various learning needs, including those requiring occupational and speech therapy. The dedicated student support and well-being team collaborates with teachers to ensure that students with SEN receive appropriate interventions and assistance to achieve their academic goals.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

At the CIS, students who are non-native English speakers receive tailored support through various programs. The English Language Learner (ELL) program assists students from Senior Kindergarten to Grade 10 in developing their English proficiency. Additionally, the CIS Foundation Programme is designed for students in Grades 3 to 8 who are beginners in English, aiming to equip them with the necessary language skills to integrate into mainstream classes.

Mental Wellbeing

The student support and well-being team, which includes counsellors and a school psychologist, offers programs throughout the year to help students develop skills to manage their well-being. Initiatives such as "Sunshine visits" for new students and weekly meetings to monitor individual progress are part of this support system.

Safeguarding

CIS is committed to safeguarding and child protection, adhering to strict policies and procedures to ensure a safe environment for all students. The school collects and manages personal data, including health and well-being information, in compliance with applicable laws and regulations

Safeguarding Policy

History

Canadian International School (CIS) in Singapore was established in 1990, initially to serve the expatriate Canadian community. Originally starting as a small school, it has grown significantly and now operates under the ownership of the prestigious Nord Anglia Education group.

Community

Canadian International School in Singapore offers a vibrant and diverse community, welcoming families from over 70 countries. The school hosts various community events like the International Fair, which celebrates cultural diversity with food, performances, and activities from around the globe. Students and families can also engage in cultural events such as Lunar New Year and Deepavali celebrations. These events provide excellent opportunities for families new to Singapore to connect and engage with others.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

The Parent Teacher Association (PTA) at the Canadian International School in Singapore plays an active role in fostering a supportive community. It organizes events such as International Day, where families celebrate their diverse cultures through food stalls and performances, and seasonal celebrations like the Winter Fair. In addition to these events, the PTA manages various interest groups and workshops, such as coffee mornings and parenting seminars, which provide valuable networking opportunities for parents. They also facilitate teacher appreciation initiatives, acknowledging the hard work of the school's educators. Volunteering with the PTA can be a great way for new families to connect and engage with the school community.

Gallery

With the PTA’s support, students enjoyed a vibrant Cultural Fair filled with food, fun, and new experiences. (credit CIS Facebook)

Students celebrating the book week in the PTA book fair. (credit CIS Facebook)

CIS students gear up for rugby practice on a sunny day on campus. (credit CIS Facebook)

Students took over the David Foster Theatre with energetic and inspiring performances. (credit CIS Facebook)

CIS students bravely shaved their heads for Cuts for Cancer, raising funds and awareness in honour of Terry Fox. (credit CIS Facebook)

Facilities Overview

The Lakeside Campus serves students aged 2 to 18 years and uses a schools-within-a-school design with distinct age-appropriate learning communities. The campus is described as having state-of-the-art facilities to support teaching and learning. CIS is an IB World School offering the IB Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, and Diploma Programme. In 2025, the Class of 2025 IB Diploma results were published, showing strong university destinations and bilingual diploma achievements. The school teaches in English and offers two bilingual language pathways (Chinese-English and French-English), along with an English language learner programme.

Sports Facilities

Outdoor learning is integrated into the CIS programme, with Open Minds in Primary, field trips, Secondary DP field investigations and Excursion Week for Grades 4–11. These activities promote independence, collaboration, resilience and real-world connections as part of the school's approach to experiential learning.

Academic Facilities

CIS follows a three-programme IB structure: IB Primary Years Programme (Pre-K to Grade 6), IB Middle Years Programme (Grades 7–10) and IB Diploma Programme (Grades 11–12). Language of instruction is English. Bilingual programmes are available: Chinese-English (Pre-K to Grade 6) and French-English (Junior Kindergarten to Grade 6), with two teachers per bilingual class. English Language Learner support is provided for non-native speakers, and after-school language activities are offered.

Extra Curricular Facilities

The Arts programme includes music, dance, drama and visual arts, with curricular and co-curricular offerings and performance opportunities. The Academy of Music provides instrumental and vocal lessons, ensembles and performance spaces such as the David Foster Theatre and Black Box Theatre. CIS also runs STEAM education with interdisciplinary maker spaces and project work, and promotes outdoor learning, field trips and service/leadership activities.

Academic & Intellectual

CIS offers extra curricular activities (ECAs), co-curricular activities (CCAs) and competitive sports across three terms for students from Pre-K to Grade 12. After-school language classes, including mother tongue and other language acquisition, are offered as paid services and run by independent providers. Media and design activities use film and recording studios and STEAM facilities, and dramatic or musical productions are staged in the David Foster Theatre. Students participate in arts ensembles and choirs, including Symphonic, Concert and rock bands, as well as junior and senior choirs.

Arts & Creative

Arts opportunities include a range of musical ensembles and bands, choirs, drama productions and visual art exhibits. Performances and showcases occur across divisions and may be conducted in languages other than English. Dramatic or musical productions are staged in the David Foster Theatre.

Cultural & Language

Mother tongue language classes and other language acquisition courses run after school as paid services. The school runs two bilingual programmes: Chinese-English for Pre-K to Grade 6, and French-English for Grade 1 to 5. Some performances are conducted in languages other than English, such as Chinese or French.

Social & Hobbies

CIS offers a broad range of after-school clubs and activities. There are 38 secondary student clubs, including sustainability groups and Model United Nations. Clubs operate across three terms each school year, with registrations via My.CIS. Recreational and hobby groups provide opportunities for social interaction and personal interest development.

Community & Service

CIS offers community service programs and volunteering opportunities through service-oriented clubs. The Memory Project is an example of a service-focused club. Some clubs provide opportunities for MYP and Diploma Programme students to meet CAS or Service as Action requirements.

Leadership & Professional

CIS provides leadership opportunities through student government and leadership programs. The school includes clubs and activities such as Model United Nations to develop leadership and global awareness. Other clubs focus on entrepreneurship, career development and professional skills.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing

Sports and fitness are offered in recreational and competitive formats across three terms. Each campus has representative ACSIS teams that compete with other international schools. Swimming is year-round at Lakeside with two annual trials. Outdoor learning and experiential programs such as Excursion Week and Open Minds support wellbeing.

Language Provision

Languages taught include English, Chinese, and French, with additional languages highlighted as part of CIS's programme. Chinese-English bilingual programme provides Chinese language instruction and literacy development through five weekly classes and a 36-level reading programme. French-English bilingual programme runs from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 6 and is IB PYP-aligned. The IB programmes include PYP (Pre-K–6), MYP (7–10), and DP (Diploma Programme).

Bilingual Teaching

Chinese-English bilingual programme is available to pre-kindergarten to grade 6 with two teachers per class: one native English speaker and one native Chinese speaker; classes alternate between English and Chinese for equal exposure. Chinese literacy development is supported by a 36-level guided reading programme, and Chinese language classes are taught five times per week by native-speaking teachers. A bilingual pathway continues into Secondary School and the Middle Years Programme, with Senior Kindergarten entry requiring language-specific criteria. French-English bilingual programme runs Junior Kindergarten to Grade 6 and is IB PYP-aligned, with entry requiring language requirements from Junior Kindergarten onward.

Immersion Programs

The immersion programmes at CIS are a distinctive part of its Primary School, offering students the option to learn through full bilingual pathways rather than traditional language classes. In addition to an English-immersion track, CIS provides Chinese–English and French–English bilingual programmes in which students receive roughly 50% of instruction in each language from native-speaking teachers, learning core subjects such as maths, science, and social studies in both languages. Based on the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), the approach is inquiry-driven and designed to develop fluency, literacy, and cultural understanding simultaneously, aiming to produce confident bilingual learners rather than students with basic conversational skills.

Awards

HoneyKids Education Awards CIS has been awarded Gold for Best in Bilingual Education at the HoneyKids Singapore Education Awards 2025! This achievement is a testament to our School’s dedication, our families continued trust, and the remarkable growth and success of every child in our bilingual programme.

Accreditations

International Baccalaureate (IB) World School Accreditation: CIS is authorized to offer the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and the Diploma Programme (DP). .

Council of International Schools (CIS) Accreditation: This accreditation recognizes schools that maintain high international education standards and demonstrate a commitment to continually improving the educational experience.

Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Accreditation: CIS holds accreditation from WASC, a regional accrediting agency in the United States. This accreditation confirms that the school meets rigorous standards of educational quality, ongoing improvement, and organizational health.

Edutrust Certification: Awarded by the Singapore Committee for Private Education (CPE), this certification ensures that CIS adheres to statutory requirements aimed at improving the quality and accountability of education providers.

Admissions

doris recommends that you start by speaking to admissions. This connects you directly to the school's admissions team who can respond with answers, more information, and next steps.

Book an Open House
After you've received a response from the admissions team, consider booking an open house visit. This is a valuable opportunity to explore the school's campus, facilities, and learning environment firsthand. During the visit, you will also get a chance to meet some of the faculty and ask any additional questions you may have about curriculum, extra-curricular offerings, or the school's philosophy and values.

Submit Your Application
With a sense of familiarity with the school, proceed to submit a formal application. Ensure you have all necessary documentation ready, which typically includes previous school records, a copy of your child’s passport, and any relevant assessment reports.

Attend an Interview or Assessment
If your application moves forward, your child may be invited for an interview or assessment. This step aims to understand your child’s academic capabilities, interests, and social readiness. The school will inform you about the format and what to expect during the session, ensuring both you and your child are well-prepared.

Receive an Admissions Decision
Following the evaluation, you will receive an admissions decision. The school commits to communicating the outcome promptly. If your application is successful, you'll be given details about the enrollment process. If not, the admissions team is usually available to discuss any next steps or alternative options.

Complete Enrollment Requirements
Once your child is offered a place, you’ll need to complete the enrollment process by signing the acceptance documents and paying the necessary fees by the given deadline. The admissions team will provide assistance with logistical details like visa applications, uniform purchasing, and start dates, ensuring a seamless transition for your family.

Scholarships

Read more about our secondary school scholarship programme here:
www.cis.edu.sg/admissions/scholarships

Waitlist

Waitpool System: Unlike a traditional waitlist where students are lined up on a first-come, first-served basis, a waitpool approach allows the school to consider each applicant's unique profile and the balance and diversity of the existing student body. When a place becomes available, the admissions team evaluates all candidates in the pool to select the student who best fits the school’s current needs and objectives.

Evaluation Criteria: Several factors are taken into account when assessing students in the waitpool. These can include the student's academic background, English language proficiency, citizenship to maintain a diverse international environment, and any particular skills or talents that might contribute to school life.

Notification Process: Families in the waitpool are kept informed about their application status and are notified once a decision has been made. As soon as a suitable place becomes available that matches a student’s profile, the admissions team promptly contacts the family to discuss placement.

Flexibility and Timing: While it’s challenging to predict the availability of places due to various factors such as student turnover and the dynamic nature of school populations, the admission team at CIS makes every effort to accommodate families and maintain transparent communication.

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