Stamford American International School (Singapore) and Tanglin Trust School are both in Singapore, about 10 km apart. Both schools offer IB programmes. Stamford American International School (Singapore) also offers American, BTEC Qualification, Advanced Placement (AP) and Reggio Emilia, and Tanglin Trust School also offers Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge International AS Levels, Cambridge A Levels, EYFS and British. Published annual fees are SGD 20,420 - 56,110 at Stamford American International School (Singapore) and SGD 34,770 - 55,734 at Tanglin Trust School, which puts Tanglin Trust School roughly 18% higher. Stamford American International School (Singapore) takes pupils from 1.5 to 18, and Tanglin Trust School from 3 to 18. The two are similar in size, at around 3,000 and 2,824 pupils. Typical class sizes are 22 at Stamford American International School (Singapore) and 24 at Tanglin Trust School.
|
Tanglin Trust School
Singapore
|
||
|---|---|---|
| Snapshot | Snapshot | |
|
Fees / year
|
Fees / year SGD 20,420 - 56,110 | Fees / year SGD 34,770 - 55,734 |
|
Age range
|
Age range 1½ - 18 years | Age range 3 - 18 years |
|
Type
|
Type Co-educational, Co-educational (boarding) | Type Co-educational |
|
Curriculum
|
Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), American Curriculum, BTEC Qualification, Advanced Placement (AP), Reggio Emilia Approach | Curriculum IB (DP), Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge International AS Levels, Cambridge A Levels, EYFS (Early years foundation stage), British Curriculum |
|
Pupils
|
Pupils 3,000 | Pupils 2,824 |
|
Typical class size
|
Typical class size 22 | Typical class size 24 |
|
Instruction language
|
Instruction language English | Instruction language English |
|
Opened
|
Opened 2009 | Opened 1925 |
|
Bus service
|
Bus service Yes | Bus service Yes |
| Essentials | Essentials | |
|
Location
|
Location Stamford American International School (Singapore) operates two campuses: the Woodleigh campus at 1 Woodleigh Lane (off Upper Serangoon Road), Singapore 357684, and the Early Years campus at 3 Chuan Lane near Lorong Chuan MRT station on the Circle Line. | Location Tanglin Trust School is located in the One-North region of Singapore. Conveniently positioned near Buona Vista MRT station, it offers easy access to public transport links, making commuting straightforward for families living in different parts of the city. The school is in close vicinity to the expat-friendly neighbourhoods of Holland Village and Bukit Timah, known for their diverse dining options and amenities. |
|
Stages
|
Stages The school serves children and students from 18 months through to high school graduation. The Early Years campus accommodates children aged 18 months to 6 years, organized into pre-nursery and kindergarten levels. The Woodleigh campus caters for Elementary, Middle School and High School students aged 6–18 years. | Stages Tanglin Trust School in Singapore is structured into three main schools: the Infant School (Nursery to Year 2), the Junior School ( Year 3 to Year 6), then Senior School which encompasses Middle School (Year 7 to 9), and Upper School (Year 10 to 11). Finally, Sixth Form for Year 12 and Year 13. |
|
School type
|
School type Stamford American International School (Singapore) is a co-educational day school (private). Boarding facilities are available for students in Grade 6 and above who are outsiders to Singapore through a partnership with ACS Oldham Hall, a nearby boarding hostel. The Early Years campus does not offer boarding. | School type Tanglin Trust School is a co-educational day school. It does not provide boarding facilities. |
|
Pupil nationality mix
|
Pupil nationality mix The school community is highly international: the Early Years to High School population is described as comprising students from over 79 nationalities | Pupil nationality mix — |
|
Additional learning support
|
Additional learning support The school offers support for students with Additional Learning Needs through its Student Support Department/Team. The department utilises a Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) approach to identify and address academic, developmental and emotional challenges, providing individualised interventions and individual education plans as necessary. For students requiring more intensive assistance, Special Education teachers design personalised programmes and the school provides access to specialised professionals such as speech and language therapists. | Additional learning support Tanglin Trust School offers supportive services for students with Additional Learning Needs through its dedicated Learning Support department. The school provides individualized support plans, access to specialist staff, and tailored resources to meet each student’s specific requirements. Facilities and programs are designed to ensure that all students can thrive academically and socially. |
|
Country affiliation
|
Country affiliation Stamford American International School offers a personalised American curriculum from 18 months through to high school graduation. | Country affiliation Tanglin Trust School is affiliated with the British educational system. |
|
Religious affiliation
|
Religious affiliation Stamford American International School in Singapore is not affiliated with any particular religion, offering an inclusive, secular environment for students from diverse cultural and religious backgrounds. | Religious affiliation Tanglin Trust School in Singapore is a non-denominational institution with no affiliation to any particular religion, welcoming students from various cultural and religious backgrounds. |
|
School day structure
|
School day structure At the Early Years campus the day typically starts at 9:00 AM and ends at 3:30 PM (the half-day programme finishes at 12:10 PM). Students have scheduled breaks including a snack break, lunch period and rest time. At the Woodleigh campus Elementary School (Grades 1–5) the day typically starts at 8:25 AM and ends at 3:05 PM with scheduled breaks including a morning recess and a lunch period. For Middle and High School students (Grades 6–12) the day typically starts at 8:25 AM and ends at 3:50 PM, with time between classes and a lunch period. | School day structure The Infant and Junior School day starts at 8:10 AM and ends at 2:50 PM. The Senior School starts at 8:15 AM and ends at 4:00 PM. The schedule includes a morning break and a lunch break. |
|
Bus service details
|
Bus service details The school offers island-wide, door-to-door bus transport to both the Woodleigh Campus and the Early Years Campus. The service is managed by the Season Bus company (and the system provides live updates on pick-up and drop-off times). Buses are modern and air-conditioned and equipped with CCTV and GPS tracking systems. WTS offers a CCA afternoon bus service providing point-to-point transportation for students participating in Co-Curricular Activities as a paid service. Please note students must be a minimum of 2 years old to ride the ELV School Transport. | Bus service details Tanglin Trust School offers a bus service to facilitate transportation for students across various parts of Singapore. The service is provided by KAL Transport Pte Ltd. Buses are air-conditioned and equipped with seat belts, ensuring a comfortable and secure commute for students. Additionally, the school collaborates closely with the provider to accommodate different routes and pick-up/drop-off points to suit the needs of families. |
| Fees | Fees | |
|
Fee details
|
Fee details Application Fee A one-time, non-refundable application fee of SGD 950 is applicable. Families enrolling their child for at least six months may transition into the Stamford Early Years mainstream curriculum without paying an additional enrollment fee. Tuition Fees (Indicative) Early Years * Pre-Nursery & Nursery * 3 days full: SGD 20,420 per year * 4 days full: SGD 29,820 per year * 5 days half: SGD 21,020 per year * 5 days full: SGD 30,820 per year * Pre-Kindergarten * 3 days full: SGD 26,040 per year * 4 days full: SGD 33,160 per year * 5 days half: SGD 25,040 per year * 5 days full: SGD 39,520 per year * Kindergarten 1 (KG1) * 5 days half: SGD 31,620 per year * 5 days full: SGD 45,340 per year * Kindergarten 2 (KG2) * 5 days full: SGD 46,330 per year Elementary, Middle and High School * Elementary School: SGD 49,040 per year * Middle School: SGD 53,210 per year * High School: SGD 56,110 per year Additional Fees Enrollment Fee An enrollment fee of SGD 4,140 is payable upon acceptance of an offered place. This is a one-off, non-refundable fee. Facility Fee The Facility Fee for Grade 1 to Grade 12 is SGD 8,320. This is a one-off, non-refundable fee. Annual Technology Fee * KG2: SGD 990 * Grade 1 to Grade 5: SGD 1,020 * Grade 6 to Grade 8: SGD 1,270 * Grade 9 to Grade 12: SGD 1,270 English as an Additional Language (EAL) Fees — Level A * Early Years listing: SGD 14,400 per year * School-wide listing: SGD 14,900 per year Billing and Payment Tuition fees are billed in advance by semester and are payable in two equal instalments or annually. Refund Policy A 100% tuition refund is available for withdrawal before the semester. No refunds are provided once a student has commenced the semester. Payment Options Fees can be paid via bank transfer or credit card. Please visit the school website for the complete and latest fee schedules by application year. | Fee details Application Fees A non-refundable application fee of SGD 1,000 is required per application. Enrolment & Capital Levy (Non-Refundable) Enrolment Fee: SGD 4,500, payable upon acceptance of a place. Capital Levy: SGD 4,500, payable before the start of the first school term. See Tanglin's admissions page for more details: https://www.tts.edu.sg/admissions/admissions-overview |
| Diving deeper | Diving deeper | |
|
Boarding arrangements
|
Boarding arrangements Stamford American offers a boarding programme based at ACS Oldham Hall Premier Boarding (Stamford Boarding @ ACS Oldham Hall), centrally located in Singapore. The boarding programme is open to SAIS Secondary students (Grades 6–12, aged 12 and above) and is mandatory for any SAIS student whose parents do not reside in Singapore. The programme focuses on three key areas: Safety and Guardianship; Academics and Wellbeing; and Community and Social Bonding. Boarding residents/families have access to 111 clean, safe rooms (2-, 3- and 4-bedded) with air conditioning, Wi‑Fi, a personal study desk and wardrobe; two nutritious meals a day (breakfast and dinner) served in the Dining Hall (lunch options are available at the Stamford American School cafeteria on campus); weekend provision includes three meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner); and comprehensive services including laundry facilities, study rooms, music practice rooms, leisure areas, gardens and a gym. The Early Years campus does not offer boarding (its profile states “Not applicable” and includes the note “Boarding school is for Grades 1-12”). | Boarding arrangements NA |
|
Uniform requirement
|
Uniform requirement All students across the school are required to wear uniforms. For Grades 1–12 the complete uniform set can be purchased through Lim Meng Keng Department Store (online ordering and home delivery available). Lim Meng Keng Department Store is located at #02-18 Holland Road Shopping Centre, 211 Holland Avenue Singapore 278967. | Uniform requirement All students from Nursery to Sixth Form wear a school uniform. The School Shop stocks the full range of school clothing including swimwear, bags, hats, sportswear and House shirts. School shoes are not sold in the shop, and a limited number of second-hand uniforms are also sold at the School Shop. |
|
Food options
|
Food options Sodexo provides on-site food services across the school. At the Woodleigh campus (Grades 1–12) there are two on-site cafés where students may buy meals or bring meals from home; payments are cashless via the Stamford Student card (MyStamford top-ups online or at campus cash kiosks). Semester Meal Plans and pre-order meals are available for Grades 1–5 (pre-ordering is not available for Grades 6–12). At the Early Years campus, lunch is provided in-house by Sodexo during school hours in accordance with the school policy for fresh and healthy food; parents of full-day Early Years students are required to send two nutritious snacks. | Food options The school's caterer designs balanced and nutritious menus with a range of Western and Asian food available. There is a main central Dining Room on Level 2 of the Nixon Building that serves lunches and snacks, with Junior lunches pre-ordered online. Senior students can use a prepaid card to access hot food, sandwiches, a salad bar, healthy snacks and fruits. There is also the Banyan Café for parents on floor 7 of the Centenary Building. |
|
House system
|
House system The school operates a house system for older students: a House T‑shirt forms part of the Secondary uniform. The Early Years campus does not use the house system. | House system The Tanglin House system is unified across the Infant, Junior and Senior Schools. There are eight Houses: Claymore, Cameron, Raeburn, Alexandra, Weyhill, Wessex, Winchester and Portsdown. |
|
Governance and ownership
|
Governance and ownership Stamford American International School (Singapore) is part of the Cognita family of schools. Cognita (headquartered in London) operates 85+ schools across regions including Europe, Latin America, the Middle East and Asia, and is governed through group-wide policies on safeguarding, health and safety, financial management and data protection; governance is overseen by independent reviewers and the head of school reports to the regional chief executive officer. Cognita employs some 10,000 teaching and support staff and educates more than 60,000 students, and its stated purpose is to create an inspiring world of education that builds self-belief and empowers individuals to succeed. | Governance and ownership The school is not-for-profit and is governed by a Board of Governors. |
| Academics | Academics | |
|
Curriculum details
|
Curriculum details Stamford American International School (Singapore) offers a continuum of programs across its campuses. On the Early Years campus, children aged 18 months to 2 years (Pre‑Nursery and Nursery) follow The Creative Curriculum, focused on active learning across social, emotional, physical, cognitive and language domains; from Pre‑Kindergarten (age 3) to Kindergarten 2 (age 6) the curriculum is grounded in the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP) and integrates units of inquiry that encompass STEAMInn (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics and Innovation). Beyond Early Years, the school continues the IB pathway: students progress through either the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) or, in middle school, may follow American Education Reaches Out (AERO) standards. In high school, students may pursue the IB Diploma or a combination of Advanced Placement (AP), BTEC or Stamford courses, all of which lead to an American High School Diploma, providing academic flexibility based on university plans. | Curriculum details In the Infant and Junior Schools (ages 3-11), the curriculum follows the English National Curriculum. In the Senior School (ages 11-16), students work towards the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) examinations. For the Sixth Form (ages 16-18), students have the option to pursue either A Levels or the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), providing pathways to universities worldwide. |
|
Student teacher ratio
|
Student teacher ratio Early Years campus ratios: Pre‑Nursery 5:1; Nursery 5:1; Pre‑Kindergarten 6:1; Kindergarten 1 7:1; Kindergarten 2 12:1. Elementary School through High School ratio: 1:24. | Student teacher ratio — |
|
Exam results
|
Exam results Exam results are applicable to graduating Grade 12 students. IB Diploma Programme (Stamford American): 97% pass rate (global average 81%), 34.4 average DP score (global average 30.58), 13% of students scored 40+ points, and 80% earned two or more bonus points for their Extended Essay and TOK. AP Program (Stamford American): 3.5 average score (global average 2.9), 75% of exams taken received 3+ points, and 12 students earned a perfect 5 points in every AP subject taken. | Exam results https://www.tts.edu.sg/about-tanglin/academic-results |
|
Higher education progression
|
Higher education progression Applicable to Grade 12 students — Stamford American International School graduates (2022–2025) have been accepted into a broad range of universities worldwide, including University of Cambridge; Imperial College London; University of California, Berkeley; New York University; UCLA; University College London; National University of Singapore; University of Edinburgh; University of Toronto; University of British Columbia; University of Melbourne; University of Sydney; University of Michigan; King’s College London; and University of Washington. Stamford American students progress to universities across regions such as Canada, USA, UK, Australia, Hong Kong, Singapore and beyond. | Higher education progression https://www.tts.edu.sg/sixth-form/careers-uni-guidance |
|
Gifted and talented
|
Gifted and talented At Stamford American International School, we believe every student — including every Early Years student — has unique strengths, interests and talents. | Gifted and talented — |
|
Academic calendar
|
Academic calendar | Academic calendar |
| Wellbeing & support | Wellbeing & support | |
|
Social & emotional learning
|
Social & emotional learning Stamford American International School (Singapore) integrates Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) into daily school life through a comprehensive Student Support Department, structured SEL curriculum, and school-wide initiatives. The award-winning Second Step program is embedded in the curriculum (including the Early Years), fostering cooperation, communication and decision-making skills and emphasizing bullying prevention. The Student Support Department provides individual and group counseling, restorative practices are promoted, and teachers are trained to incorporate SEL into their teaching while working in partnership with parents to create a supportive and affirming learning environment. | Social & emotional learning Tanglin Trust School places a strong emphasis on Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) to support student well-being and development. The school implements a comprehensive Lifeskills curriculum across all year groups, addressing topics such as positive relationships, health, and well-being. To further support SEL, Tanglin has established safe spaces within each school division, providing students with designated areas to manage stress and emotions. Additionally, the school's Coordinated Wellbeing Services team, comprising nurses, counsellors, an educational psychologist, and a school social worker, collaborates to offer both proactive and reactive support, contributing to a nurturing environment. |
|
Special educational needs (SEN)
|
Special educational needs (SEN) The Student Support Department provides a comprehensive range of services for students with academic, emotional, physical and developmental needs. The team includes counselors, therapists and specialised educators and (at the Early Years campus) utilises a Multi-tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) approach. Services include early intervention, academic support, counselling, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, and intensive support programmes. Speech and language therapists offer direct therapy, in-class support and strategies for stakeholders; occupational therapists work on fine and gross motor skills, self-management and emotional regulation through individual and group sessions as well as in-class support. At the Stamford American International School campus, special education teachers design individualized programmes for students requiring continuous support, with specialised staff assistance ranging from 25% to 100% of the school day; this intensive support is available for an additional fee and placement decisions are made quarterly. | Special educational needs (SEN) At Tanglin, we are an inclusive learning environment and believe that each child is entitled to a curriculum that facilitates their individual development and support which allows them to achieve their full academic potential. Most of the time, the learning needs of our students can be met by class teachers. However, at certain stages along their learning journey some students may need curriculum modification or specific intervention. |
|
English as an additional language
|
English as an additional language English as an Additional Language (EAL) specialists collaborate with classroom teachers to provide instruction tailored to students' proficiency. Beginner students (Level A) receive 80 minutes of daily English instruction, intermediate learners (Level B) receive in-class language support, and progress is regularly assessed using internal and external tools such as the iTEP SLATE Plus. A Mandarin-to-English Transition Program supports native Mandarin speakers in developing English fluency. At the Early Years campus there is no formal EAL programme for that age group; young learners acquire English through interaction with teachers and peers in a supportive setting, and daily Mandarin or Spanish options are offered. | English as an additional language Tanglin does not provide any special programmes to teach students for whom English is an additional language and who are at an early stage of acquiring English. Students wishing to enrol in the school must have an age appropriate fluency in English, and one parent is required to be fluent in English to ensure effective communication between school and home. |
|
Mental wellbeing
|
Mental wellbeing The Student Support Department offers both preventative and responsive counselling through individual and group sessions, collaborating with teachers and staff to address social and emotional challenges. The school actively promotes mental health awareness through campaigns such as "R U OK? Day" to encourage open conversations about wellbeing. The Early Years campus places particular emphasis on fostering a nurturing, supportive environment where teachers and staff attend closely to young children's social and emotional needs, promoting positive interactions and a sense of belonging as part of the school's holistic development focus. | Mental wellbeing The school has a dedicated team of counselors who work alongside teachers to provide individualized support and guidance. Specific programs are designed to equip students with essential life skills and resilience. The school also promotes a supportive environment through initiatives like peer mentoring and mindfulness activities. Regular workshops and sessions are available for both students and parents, fostering open communication and awareness of mental health. |
|
Safeguarding
|
Safeguarding Stamford American International School (Singapore) prioritises safeguarding and child protection through comprehensive policies, regular staff training (including first aid qualifications), clear procedures, and open communication that encourages students and parents to raise concerns. Counsellors and workshops provide guidance on issues such as cyber safety, and the school collaborates with external professionals when additional support is required. Security measures include 24-hour surveillance, over 60 cameras, a strict visitor sign-in process and colour-coded lanyards for identification. The Early Years campus specifically adheres to international safeguarding policies to ensure a safe learning and working environment for students, staff, parents and visitors. | Safeguarding The school maintains a dedicated safeguarding team trained to handle concerns and implement protective measures. All staff undergo regular training in child protection and are committed to maintaining a secure environment. The school has a clear reporting system for any issues, ensuring swift and appropriate responses. Additionally, Tanglin Trust School involves parents in creating a safe community through workshops and open communication. |
|
Safeguarding policy
|
Safeguarding policy | Safeguarding policy |
| Facilities | Facilities | |
|
Facilities overview
|
Facilities overview Stamford American International School (Singapore) comprises two bespoke campuses: Woodleigh Campus for grades 1–12 and the Early Years Campus (the Early Learning Village) serving ages 18 months to 6 years. The school has an Innovation Center and Makerspace to support project‑based learning, and a Reagan Theater with 500 seats, an LED backdrop, and professional sound and lighting. Woodleigh hosts multiple specialized sports and performing‑arts spaces including three swimming pools, two indoor sports arenas, rooftop tennis courts, dance studios, rock‑climbing walls, and a multipurpose sports field. The Early Years Campus offers purpose‑built learning environments designed to optimise early childhood learning; the American curriculum there integrates with the IB Primary Years Programme from Pre‑Nursery to Kindergarten 2 in a safe, stimulating setting. | Facilities overview The Tanglin Trust School serves students from age 3 to 18, organized into four main divisions: Infant School (age 3–7), Junior School (age 7–11), Middle School (age 11–14) leading into Upper School (age 14–16) and Sixth Form (age 16–18). The main address is 95 Portsdown Road, Singapore 139299. The school is not-for-profit and has a long tradition of British-based learning with an international perspective. The Infant School is accredited for Curiosity Approach pedagogy. The school also operates a Highlands Programme, a residential learning initiative for Year 9 students based at the Gippsland campus in Australia. |
|
Sports facilities
|
Sports facilities Woodleigh Campus features extensive facilities: three swimming pools, two indoor sports arenas, rooftop tennis courts, dance studios, rock‑climbing walls, and a multipurpose sports field. The school's CCA Sports program provides age‑appropriate pathways across badminton, basketball, cross country, football, golf, gymnastics, rugby, softball, swimming, tennis, touch rugby, track, and volleyball, and the school participates in SEASAC and ACSIS regional competitions. The Early Years Campus delivers specialist physical education from 18 months via the SMART Steps programme (enhancing key movement patterns) and a perceptual motor programme for Kindergarten 1 students; its Early Learning Village includes The Hive, an air‑conditioned multipurpose gymnasium for sports and performances, plus a 20‑metre space designed for pre‑school aged children. Sports are also offered as part of the Early Years extracurricular options. | Sports facilities The Tanglin site supports a broad co-curricular life, including sport and arts offerings across the Infant, Junior, Middle, and Upper/Sixth Form sections, with dedicated sport and arts facilities integrated into the campus. |
|
Academic facilities
|
Academic facilities The school’s Innovation Center and Makerspace provide professional‑grade facilities and equipment — including latest‑generation 3D printers, robotics, laser cutting technology, green‑screen and video production studios, cameras, multimedia equipment, and mobile‑making carts — supporting 3D printing, modeling, robotics, sewing, clay work and project‑based learning (particularly across middle and high school). At the Early Years Campus, teaching follows American educational standards using The Creative Curriculum and Teaching Strategies GOLD, and employs the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme framework from Pre‑Nursery to Kindergarten 2. | Academic facilities Upper School provides a broad academic experience with a wide array of (I)GCSE subjects from multiple exam boards. The Sixth Form offers a dual pathway: students can pursue either A-levels or the International Baccalaureate Diploma. |
|
Extra curricular facilities
|
Extra curricular facilities The Co‑Curricular Activities (CCA) programme offers over 550 activities year‑round for Pre‑K to Grade 12, including 3D printing, CAD, coding, fencing, golf, gymnastics, MUN, radio station podcasting, robotics, and rock climbing. Lions Academies provide high‑level coaching, while After‑School Activities (ASAs) are explorative, non‑progressive, creative and inclusive. Drama productions, music ensembles, sports teams and high school clubs give students opportunities to perform and compete; over 75% of students participate in one or more CCAs. In the Early Years programme, music is included (notably the Suzuki Violin programme) with group and private lessons available through the Stamford Music Academy. | Extra curricular facilities The school emphasizes a rich co-curricular programme across all sections, including sports, arts, outdoor education, service learning, and Duke of Edinburgh opportunities, aligned with Tanglin's holistic approach to education. |
| Parent experience | Parent experience | |
|
History
|
History Stamford American International School (Singapore) was established in 2009 and is part of the Cognita Group. The Early Years campus was set up as a dedicated campus within the school in 2017. | History Tanglin Trust School was established in 1925, initially serving the educational needs of the British expatriate community in Singapore. Throughout its history, the school has maintained its non-profit status, ensuring that investment is channelled back into student development and facilities. |
|
Community
|
Community Stamford American International School offers a diverse, welcoming community and celebrates cultural diversity through regular events and festivals that foster global citizenship and family connection. The school hosts activities such as International Fiesta (a week-long event organised by the Parent Teacher Association), UN Day, Lunar New Year, Deepavali and Christmas festivities. The student body is internationally broad—the school counts students from over 70 nationalities, with the Early Years campus reporting over 75 nationalities. | Community Tanglin Trust School in Singapore offers a vibrant, inclusive community with a rich mix of international families, fostering a supportive environment for newcomers. The school regularly hosts community and cultural events, such as International Day, which celebrates the diverse backgrounds of its students and staff through food, performances, and traditional attire. |
|
Parent teacher association
|
Parent teacher association Stamford American International School has an active Parent Teacher Association (PTA); all parents and guardians of current students are automatically members and are encouraged to participate. The volunteer-run PTA fosters a supportive community through social events, welcome gatherings, cultural festivals, staff appreciation efforts, Parent Connection Groups, volunteer opportunities and charitable activities. Parents can serve on committees, act as Room Parents, engage in social activities or volunteer for events. The PTA also maintains three Parent Cafés on campus and offers Parent Connection Groups as spaces for parents to meet with teachers and one another, strengthening the school community. | Parent teacher association Tanglin Trust School's Friends of Tanglin plays an integral role in fostering a strong sense of community among families, staff, and the wider school network. The group organizes various events throughout the academic year, such as the International Evening, which celebrates the school's diverse cultural makeup, and the highly anticipated Summer Fair. Additionally, they support a range of interest groups and workshops that focus on topics like parenting and cultural awareness. |
| Extra-curricular | Extra-curricular | |
|
Academic & intellectual
|
Academic & intellectual Stamford American International School (Singapore) offers a broad Co‑Curricular Activities program with over 500 activities year‑round for Pre‑K to Grade 12, including 3D printing, CAD, coding, robotics, fencing, golf, gymnastics, MUN, a radio station podcast, and rock climbing. Sports Academies provide progressive, high‑intensity coaching while After‑School Activities (ASAs) remain exploratory, non‑progressive, creative and inclusive. The program also includes Field Studies and student‑led High School Clubs to broaden experiential and leadership‑oriented learning beyond the classroom. At the Early Years campus (the Early Learning Village) learning is Reggio‑inspired: children learn through play, inquiry and hands‑on exploration in classrooms designed to invite collaboration and discovery. Early Years students may choose Mandarin or Spanish (taught daily by native‑speaking teachers), with an optional bilingual English‑Mandarin pathway from Pre‑K; the IB Primary Years Programme begins at Pre‑Kindergarten (age 3), alongside American educational standards and The Creative Curriculum to develop inquiry skills and international perspectives from the start. | Academic & intellectual Tanglin Trust School follows a British-based curriculum and offers three senior pathways: IGCSE, A Levels, and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. In the Upper School, IGCSE subjects are offered across multiple exam boards. The Sixth Form provides a choice between A-levels and the IB Diploma. The school is a not-for-profit institution established in 1925; 2025 marks its centenary. |
|
Arts & creative
|
Arts & creative Creativity and performing arts are available across the school. Music Ensembles and Performing Arts run year‑round, supported by the Lions Music Academy which provides private lessons and group performance opportunities across choral, strings, wind, orchestral and modern/rock ensembles. Drama productions provide regular performance platforms on campus, including the Reagan Theater and other venues. At the Early Years campus creativity is fostered through a Reggio‑inspired, play‑based approach and music education is built into the ELV experience, including a Suzuki violin program with group and private lessons. | Arts & creative Tanglin supports a substantial arts program, including a central music department. The Junior Arts Centre opened in 2025, providing dedicated space for creative learning. The co-curricular programme includes arts and music opportunities with ensembles and performances throughout the year. |
|
Cultural & language
|
Cultural & language The school’s World Language program provides daily Mandarin or Spanish lessons in Early Years and Elementary, with more intensive language study in Middle and High School. A Bilingual Mandarin‑English program is offered from Pre‑Kindergarten to Grade 5. English as an Additional Language (EAL) supports learners from Kindergarten to Grade 10, and a Preparatory Course for Secondary School (PCS) supports advanced language development. Model United Nations (MUN) is part of the co‑curricular program, and parents and students highlight Mandarin immersion as a feature of the Early Years bilingual pathway. | Cultural & language Mother Tongue language provision is offered for languages such as Chinese, French, Spanish, Japanese, Dutch and Hindi. Some students pursue these languages within IGCSE, A-level, or IB Diploma programs, including the IB Bilingual Diploma. English is the working language; an age-appropriate English fluency is required for entry, and there is no provision to teach children for whom English is an additional language. |
|
Social & hobbies
|
Social & hobbies Year‑round co‑curricular options include ASAs, Music Ensembles, Drama Productions, Sports Teams, a Radio Station Podcast and student‑led High School Clubs that provide leadership opportunities. Many of these co‑curricular activities are available for Grades 1–12. The school’s Social Program supports social‑emotional learning for younger learners through Second Step modules for Pre‑K to Grade 5, focusing on cooperation, communication and anti‑bullying. | Social & hobbies The school runs a broad co-curricular programme (CCA) spanning arts, sport and service. The CCA programme supports student interests through a wide range of activities coordinated by a dedicated Co-Curriculum department. Tanglin also fosters community engagement through events and charitable activities such as Ch@t (Charity @ Tanglin). |
|
Community & service
|
Community & service Service Learning at Stamford American is aligned with IB frameworks (PYP Taking Action, MYP Service as Action, and DP Creativity, Activity, Service) and exposes students to community service locally and abroad. Signature initiatives include the Cambodia Hope School project in partnership with World Assistance for Cambodia and schoolwide drives such as the Month of Giving, which have supported Community Chest, It’s Raining Raincoats and other partners. SDGs are integrated into learning. Service learning opportunities are offered across Grades 1–12. | Community & service Community engagement is a feature of school life, including events like International Day and charitable initiatives. The Ch@t (Charity @ Tanglin) program supports students' involvement in service projects and community activities. |
|
Leadership & professional
|
Leadership & professional Leadership and professional development are delivered through student‑led High School Clubs, the Field Studies Program (which includes a two‑day leadership training and student leaders who run pre‑ and post‑trip advisory curricula to extend learning beyond trips) and the Lions Academies, which deliver progressive coaching with a focus on developing leadership and professional skills. Many of these leadership opportunities are offered for Grades 1–12. | Leadership & professional Senior School offers Careers & University Counselling to support student pathways. The school's co-curricular programme provides leadership and collaboration opportunities across departments and activities. |
|
Lifestyle & wellbeing
|
Lifestyle & wellbeing The school promotes wellness and active lifestyles across age groups. The Athletics Program provides age‑appropriate pathways in badminton, basketball, cross country, football, golf, gymnastics, rugby, softball, swimming, tennis, touch rugby, track and volleyball, with SEASAC and ACSIS membership enabling regional competition. The program supports the school’s ROAR values—Resilience, Outstanding character, Ambition and Respect. At the Early Learning Village the focus is on social‑emotional, physical, cognitive and language development in a purpose‑built environment designed to optimise early childhood learning. | Lifestyle & wellbeing British Schools Overseas inspection in 2025 rated Tanglin Outstanding, including welfare and leadership aspects. Pastoral care and safeguarding arrangements are in place to support student wellbeing. Co-curricular life emphasizes sport and physical activity, contributing to students' wellbeing and community spirit. |
| Language provision | Language provision | |
|
Language provision
|
Language provision The World Language Program provides daily instruction in Mandarin, Spanish, Korean, Japanese and English. Early Years and Elementary students receive daily Mandarin or Spanish lessons as part of the language curriculum. In Middle School and High School, Mandarin and Spanish are taught in 80‑minute sessions every other day, with 9 levels for Spanish and 7 levels for Mandarin. A Language Program for Grades 6–12 offers Korean, Japanese, Mandarin and Spanish. English as an Additional Language supports Kindergarten to Grade 10, and the Preparatory Course for Secondary School provides a 20‑week English‑proficiency program. The Early Learning Village specifically provides bilingual education in English and Mandarin for Pre‑Kindergarten to Grade 5; entry requirements specify readiness in both languages, with an English assessment beginning in KG2 and additional language assessments in Grades 1–5. Mandarin progress is tracked through placement tests, internal assessments and STAMP starting in Grade 3; English progress is tracked through Heggerty (PreK–KG1), UFLI (KG2) phonics programs and standard classroom measures. The Early Learning Village uses IB‑PYP principles to support language development and inquiry‑based learning. | Language provision The working language is English and students must have age-appropriate fluency in English. There is no provision to teach children for whom English is an additional language or who are at an early stage of acquiring English language skills. The school supports heritage language development through a Mother Tongue program offering Chinese, French, Spanish, Japanese, Dutch and Hindi. Some students take examinations in these languages and some obtain the IB Bilingual Diploma. |
|
Bilingual teaching
|
Bilingual teaching The school offers a Bilingual Program blending Mandarin and English for Pre‑Kindergarten through Grade 5. The Early Learning Village implements this bilingual program using an immersive, translanguaging approach with a one‑teacher model led by bilingual educators, integrating English and Mandarin across the curriculum and aligning with the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme framework; it emphasizes Mandarin literacy and English language development through inquiry‑based learning. | Bilingual teaching The school provides a Mother Tongue language program supported by dedicated teachers. Languages offered include Chinese, French, Spanish, Japanese, Dutch and Hindi. Some students take public examinations in these languages and some obtain the IB Bilingual Diploma. |
|
Immersion programs
|
Immersion programs The Bilingual Program includes 400 minutes of immersive Mandarin learning each week. At the Early Learning Village this immersion emphasizes authentic communication, translanguaging and cross‑subject Mandarin usage within an IB‑PYP‑aligned framework. | Immersion programs — |
| Reputation | Reputation | |
|
Awards
|
Awards Singapore International School of the Year (Editor's Choice) – 2025: Stamford American was honoured with this title at the HoneyKids Asia Singapore Education Awards; the school has been recognised by these awards for five consecutive years, and the 2025 Editor’s Choice win was accompanied by four other awards that year, making Stamford American one of the top winners. 2025 Singapore Education Awards: Stamford American received five awards in 2025, including Gold in The Curriculum Awards (American) and Silver in Singapore Preschool of the Year, recognising excellence in blending the American curriculum with the IB framework. Gold winners (selected): The Curriculum Awards (American); Best Outdoor Learning Programme. Silver winners (selected): Singapore Preschool of the Year; The Curriculum Awards (International Baccalaureate). 2023 Singapore International School Awards: Stamford American received the Silver Award for Singapore International School of the Year in 2023. Best Model United Nations (MUN) Award – 2021: The school’s MUN team received the Best MUN award in the Refugees & Technology category as part of the MUN Refugees Challenge 2021, organised by UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency. Distinction Award for Excellence in Community Service – 2023: The American Chamber of Commerce in Singapore presented Stamford American with a Distinction Award for outstanding corporate social responsibility initiatives. National Business Award for Education – 2020: Stamford American secured the Singapore Business Review’s National Business Award for Education in 2020, recognising the school’s efforts in developing ecological sustainability initiatives. | Awards 2026 Spear's School Index -Top 100 World's Leading Private School 2025 Tes Awards for International Schools Curriculum Initiative of the Year - Highlands Programme 2024 Talk Education Awards: The school received the "Thinking Beyond the Curriculum" award, recognizing the impact of The Institute at Tanglin in supporting student scholarship and learning. Singapore Education Awards 2024: Tanglin Trust School secured three Gold awards, including "Singapore International School of the Year," "International School with the Most Future-Ready Students," and "Best New Campus" for its state-of-the-art Centenary Building. WhichSchoolAdvisor (Singapore) Best Schools Awards 2024: The school was honored with the "Best Post-16 Education" award, highlighting its dual-pathway offering of A Levels and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). The school also won "Best UK Pathway" and "Best Early Years Programme in an International School" International School of the Year 2023: Tanglin Trust School was named "International School of the Year 2023" by ISC Research, also winning the "Ethical Values Education Award" and being shortlisted for the "Strategic Leadership Award." |
|
Accreditations
|
Accreditations Council of International Schools (CIS) Accreditation: CIS accreditation is a mark of quality in international education, signifying adherence to international best practices and a commitment to continuous improvement. Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Accreditation: WASC accreditation provides assurance that the school meets rigorous educational standards recognized globally, supporting student transfers and university admissions through continual improvement processes. International Baccalaureate (IB) World School: As an IB World School, Stamford American is authorized to offer the IB programmes, reflecting a commitment to high-quality, challenging international education that emphasizes critical thinking, intercultural understanding and holistic learning. EduTrust Certification: This Singaporean quality-assurance scheme (EduTrust) assures that the school maintains high standards in student protection, management, academic processes and administration. | Accreditations Council of International Schools (CIS) - The CIS accredits schools that are committed to continuous improvement and the development of global citizens. It assesses international schools for quality and rigor in all aspects of education and operations. Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) - WASC is an American-based accrediting agency. Accreditation by WASC signifies that the school meets international standards, making it easier for students to transition to other education systems globally, particularly in the United States. Independent Association of Preparatory Schools (IAPS) - IAPS accredits preparatory schools with a commitment to high standards in education and pastoral care, ensuring that young students receive a quality foundation for future learning. Federation of British International Schools in Asia (FOBISIA) - FOBISIA membership indicates that the school follows the British curriculum framework, ensuring consistency and familiarity for students transitioning from or to schools with similar curricula. British Schools Overseas (BSO) - This accreditation ensures that the school meets the standards expected of British education abroad. BSO accreditation is recognized by the UK government and facilitates a smooth transition for students entering the UK education system. Tanglin is the only international school in Singapore to undergo this UK government inspection and was graded 'Outstanding', the highest possible rating in its 2025 inspection. The quality of education, pupils’ development, welfare, and school leadership were all rated outstanding. Inspectors highlighted exceptional attainment and progress in English, Mathematics, Science, and across creative and practical subjects, with results at IGCSE, A level and IB Diploma significantly above UK and global averages. They also praised Tanglin’s highly cohesive community, where pupils, staff and parents celebrate achievement, prioritise wellbeing and provide outstanding care, enabling pupils to thrive and display exemplary behaviour. |
| Admissions | Admissions | |
|
Admissions
|
Admissions Attend an Open House or Schedule a Campus Tour: Prospective families are encouraged to visit either campus to experience the school's environment firsthand. You can book a tour or attend an open house event to meet faculty, observe classrooms, and understand the school's culture. The Stamford American International School campus also offers online virtual tours for families currently living overseas. Submit an Online Application: Complete the online application form, which typically takes around 15 minutes. You will need to create an account to access the form, allowing you to save and return to your application as needed. Provide Required Documentation: Along with the application, submit necessary documents, including a copy of your child's passport, a passport-sized photograph, a copy of the birth certificate, and current and previous year school reports (officially translated into English if necessary). For high school applicants, additional documents such as transcripts and teacher recommendations may be required. Pay the Application Fee: A non-refundable application fee is required to process your application. Stamford offers various payment options, including bank transfers and credit card payments. If your employer is assisting with fee payments, have a company representative complete the necessary forms and submit them with your application. Application Review and Assessment: Once all documents and the application fee are received, the admissions team will review your application. Depending on your child's age and educational background, assessments or interviews may be scheduled to ensure appropriate placement. Receive Admission Decision: After the review and any necessary assessments, the admissions team will inform you of the outcome. If offered a place, you will receive an acceptance package outlining the next steps. Complete Enrollment Formalities: To secure your child's spot, sign the student contract within seven days of receiving the offer. This step finalizes enrollment and ensures your child is ready to join the Stamford community. | Admissions Attend an Open House or Schedule a School Tour. Once the admissions team has responded, consider attending an open house or arranging a personal school tour. This is an excellent opportunity for you to experience the school environment, explore the facilities, and ask any specific questions about the curriculum, extracurricular activities, and the school community. Submit the Application Form and Required Documents. After gathering all necessary information, proceed to complete and submit the application form available on the school’s website. Ensure that you prepare all required documents, such as your child’s birth certificate, school reports from the previous two years, and any relevant examination results. Assessment and Interview Process. Depending on the grade level of entry, your child may need to undergo an assessment or interview. The admissions team will provide details about this process, including the format and content of the assessment. This step is designed to understand your child’s academic abilities and ensure that the school can meet their educational needs. Offer of a Place and Acceptance. If your child meets the school’s entry criteria, you will receive an offer of a place. Review the offer carefully, including any conditions and the enrollment terms. To secure the spot, respond by the specified deadline and provide any necessary confirmation, such as the enrollment deposit or additional documentation. Prepare for Enrollment and School Start. Once you have accepted the offer, the school will guide you through the enrollment process. This includes finalizing administrative details, such as uniform purchase, bus arrangements, and orientation schedules. |
|
Scholarships
|
Scholarships General: Stamford American International School offers scholarships at its discretion, aiming to recognize and support students who embody the school's core values and demonstrate exceptional talents. Types and Selection: Academic scholarships are awarded to students who exhibit high academic potential and performance; selection typically involves evaluation of past academic records, teacher recommendations, and sometimes an interview or test. Arts scholarships are for students with outstanding talent in visual arts, music, drama, or other creative areas and usually require a portfolio or an audition. Sports scholarships are offered to athletically gifted students and involve assessing sports achievements, potential contributions to the school’s sports program, and personal interviews. Scholarship Application Process: Prospective students generally need to complete a scholarship-specific application form and submit supporting documentation, which may include academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and where applicable, a portfolio or demonstration of talent. | Scholarships Tanglin Centenary Music Scholarships: These scholarships are open to current and prospective Senior School students who demonstrate outstanding musical proficiency, a genuine passion for music, and a commitment to perform regularly. |
|
Waitlist
|
Waitlist Application Submission and Evaluation: Families interested in enrolling must submit an application form along with the necessary documentation (such as previous school records and teacher recommendations). The Admissions Team evaluates applications based on the submitted documents and may schedule age-appropriate assessments. Assignment to Waitlist and Notification: If the desired grade level is full, the applicant will be placed on a waitlist. Families will be notified about their position and any available updates; the school will inform you as soon as a vacancy is anticipated. Priority and Offer of Placement: Priority on the waitlist is generally given based on factors such as date of application, sibling priority, and corporate debentures. As spaces become available (due to withdrawals or other changes), the school extends enrollment offers to students on the waitlist. Acceptance of Offer: Families who receive an offer from the waitlist have a specified period to accept and secure their child's placement by completing the enrollment paperwork and paying the relevant fees. | Waitlist Tanglin Trust School employs an applicant pool system rather than a traditional waitlist. The process includes: Application Submission: Families can submit applications up to three years before the desired entry year. Annual Review: Each year, the relevant Head of School and Head of Admissions review and assess applicants in the pool. tts.edu.sg Possible Outcomes: After the annual review, applicants may receive: -An offer of a place at the school. -Placement into the waitpool for consideration if spots become available during the applied academic year. -Notification that the application was unsuccessful. This system allows the school to evaluate applicants annually, ensuring that each student is considered fairly based on the current availability and suitability for the school's programs. |
| View full profile → | View full profile → | |
Comparing more schools, or want notes and ratings of your own? Build your own compare board.