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The Stamford American International School Early Learning Village is located at 3 Chuan Lane near Lorong Chuan MRT station on the Circle Line. The campus is conveniently positioned close to grocery stores, cafés, and community facilities.
The school accommodates children aged 18 months to 6, organized into nursery and kindergarten levels.
Stamford American International School in Singapore is a co-educational day school. It offers boarding facilities for students in Grade 6 and above who are outsiders to Singapore, through a partnership with ACS Oldham Hall, a nearby boarding hostel.
Over 70+ nationalities
Stamford American International School offers support for students with Additional Learning Needs through its Student Support Team. The school provides tailored assistance such as individual education plans and access to specialized professionals like speech and language therapists.
The Stamford American International School Early Learning Village is affiliated with the United States of America.
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.
The Elementary School (Grades 1-5) day typically starts at 8:25 AM and ends at 3:05 PM. Students have scheduled breaks, including a morning recess and a lunch period.
For Middle and High School students (Grade 6-12), the school day typically starts at 8:25 AM and ends at 3:50 PM. Students have time between classes and a lunch period.
Stamford American International School offer island-wide, door-to-door transport to both Woodleigh Campus and the Early Learning Village (ELV).
This system provides live updates on pick-up and drop-off times, enabling the school to efficiently manage the transportation process. Additionally, WTS offers a CCA afternoon bus service, providing point-to-point transportation for students participating in Co-Curricular Activities (CCA) as a paid service.
Please note students must be a minimum of 2 years old to ride the ELV School Transport.
We are pleased to offer a boarding program at ACS Oldham Hall Premier Boarding for our students who have immediate families that reside in another country. Stamford Boarding @ ACS Oldham Hall is centrally located in Singapore.
Our boarding program is open to all SAIS Secondary Students from Grades 6 to 12 (aged 12 and above). Boarding is mandatory for all SAIS students whose parents are not residing in Singapore.
Our program has focus on 3 key areas: Safety and Guardianship; Academics and Wellbeing; Community and Social Bonding.
When residing at Stamford Boarding House, students/families will have access to:
• 111 clean, safe and cozy rooms comprising of 2, 3 and 4-bedded rooms with airconditioning, WIFI, as well as personal study desk and wardrobe.
• Two nutritious meals a day (breakfast and dinner) are served at the Dining Hall.
Lunch options are available at Stamford American School Cafeteria on campus.
During weekends, 3 meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) will be provided
• Comprehensive services for boarding students including laundry facilities, WIFI, study rooms, music practice rooms, leisure areas, gardens, and gym.
Uniforms are required for all students from Nursery to Secondary School. The complete uniform set can be purchased through Lim Meng Keng Department Store, with online ordering and home delivery. Lim Meng Keng Department Store is located at
Lunch is provided for all full-day Early Learning Village students, delivered to classrooms, with vegetarian options. At Woodleigh Campus, there are two on-site cafes where Grades 1-12 can buy meals or bring meals from home; Sodexo provides on-site food services and an Aspretto cafe operates at the Early Learning Village. Payments are cashless via the Stamford Student card, with MyStamford top-ups online or at campus cash kiosks; Semester Meal Plans are available for Grades 1-5 and pre-order meals are offered for Grades 1-5 (pre-ordering is not available for Grades 6-12).
The school has a house system; a House T-shirt is part of the Secondary uniform.
Stamford American is part of Cognita. Cognita governs the school 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 operates 85+ schools in 13 countries and is headquartered in London.
Stamford American International School provides an International Baccalaureate (IB) program across different education stages, including the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) for younger students, followed by a choice between the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) or the American Education Reaches Out (AERO) standards in middle school. For high school students, the school offers the option of pursuing an IB Diploma, Advanced Placement (AP) courses, or an American High School Diploma, allowing students flexibility based on their future university plans.
Elementary School to High School:
1:24
IB Diploma Programme:
- 97% passing rate in Stamford American (81% global passing rate)
- 34.4 Average DP Score (30.58 global average)
- 13% of students received 40+ points
- 80% earned two or more bonus points for their Extended Essay and TOK
AP Program:
- 3.5 Average Score (2.9 Global Average)
- 75% of exams taken received 3+ points
- 12 students earned a perfect 5 points in every AP subject taken
Stamford American International School graduates from 2022 to 2025 have been accepted into a diverse array of prestigious universities worldwide.
Here are some notable Universities:
University of Cambridge
Imperial College London
University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley)
New York University
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
University College London (UCL)
National University of Singapore (NUS)
University of Edinburgh
University of Toronto
University of British Columbia
University of Melbourne
University of Sydney
University of Michigan
Kings’s College London
University of Washington
Country Breakdown:
45% USA
31% UK
7% Canada
4% Australia
3% Singapore
2% Hong Kong
8% Rest of the world
In Stamford American, we believe each student have their unique and individual strengths
SAIS integrates Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) into daily school life through a comprehensive counseling program, structured SEL curriculum, and school-wide initiatives. The school’s Student Support Department provides individual and group counseling to help students navigate social and emotional challenges, while the award-winning Second Step program is embedded in the curriculum up to to Grade 5, fostering cooperation, communication, and decision-making skills. SAIS also promotes bullying prevention and restorative practices, ensuring that SEL principles are reinforced both in classrooms and through collaboration with parents. Teachers are trained to incorporate SEL into their teaching practices, creating a supportive and affirming learning environment.
SAIS provides a comprehensive support system for students with diverse learning needs through its Student Support Department. This department offers a range of services tailored to address academic, emotional, physical, and developmental challenges.
Speech and Language Therapy: A team of therapists assists students in developing effective communication skills, offering direct therapy, in-class support, and strategies for stakeholders.
Occupational Therapy: Therapists work on enhancing fine and gross motor skills, self-management, and emotional regulation through individual and group sessions, as well as in-class support, promoting independence in daily activities.
Intensive Support: Special education teachers design individualized programs for students requiring continuous support throughout the school day. Depending on their needs and goals, students may receive specialized staff assistance ranging from 25% to 100% of their day. This service is available for an additional fee, with placement decisions made quarterly.
English as an Additional Language (EAL) specialists collaborate with classroom teachers to provide tailored instruction based on students’ proficiency levels. Beginner students (Level A) receive 80 minutes of daily English instruction, while intermediate learners (Level B) receive in-class language support. Progress is regularly assessed using internal and external tools like the iTEP SLATE Plus. Additionally, a Mandarin to English Transition Program supports native Mandarin speakers in developing English fluency. These initiatives ensure that EAL students gain the skills needed to thrive academically and socially.
SAIS's 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. SAIS also actively promotes mental health awareness through campaigns such as "R U OK? Day," encouraging open conversations about well-being within the school community.
SAIS prioritizes safeguarding and child protection through comprehensive policies, regular staff training, open communication, and a secure campus environment. All staff undergo ongoing training in safeguarding responsibilities, including first aid qualifications. The school maintains an open-door policy, encouraging students and parents to voice concerns, while counselors and workshops provide guidance on issues like cyber safety. SAIS collaborates with external professionals when additional support is needed. Security measures include 24-hour surveillance, over 60 cameras, a strict visitor sign-in process, and color-coded lanyards for easy identification.
Stamford American International School was established in Singapore in 2009 and is part of the Cognita Group, a global network of over 85 schools in multiple countries.
Stamford American International School in Singapore offers a diverse and welcoming community, reflecting its wide-ranging international student body from over 70 nationalities. The school hosts various community events, such as International Fiesta and UN Day, celebrating cultural diversity and fostering a sense of global citizenship. Regular cultural events and festivals provide opportunities for students and families to connect and share their unique backgrounds.
Stamford American International School (SAIS) has an active Parent Teacher Association (PTA). The PTA aims to foster a supportive and inclusive community by organizing social events, Parent Connection Groups, volunteer opportunities, and charitable activities. All parents and guardians of current students are automatically members and are encouraged to participate in various roles, such as serving on committees, acting as Room Parents, engaging in social activities, or volunteering for numerous charitable events. The PTA also offers Parent Connection Groups and maintains three Parent Cafés on campus, providing spaces for parents to engage in meaningful discussions with teachers and fellow parents, strengthening the sense of community
The school has two bespoke campuses: Woodleigh Campus for grades 1–12 and the Early Learning Village for younger learners. The school has an Innovation Center and Makerspace with 3D printers, robotics, and advanced electronics to support project-based learning. The school has a Reagan Theater with 500 seats, an LED backdrop, and professional sound and lighting. The school has multiple specialized spaces on Woodleigh including three swimming pools, two indoor sports arenas, rooftop tennis courts, dance studios, rock-climbing walls, and a multipurpose sports field. The school has The Hive indoors at the Early Learning Village, a 20‑meter pool, and expansive outdoor learning areas.
The Woodleigh Campus features 3 swimming pools, 2 indoor sports arenas, rooftop tennis courts, dance studios, rock-climbing walls, and a multipurpose sports field. The Early Learning Village features The Hive, an air‑conditioned multipurpose gymnasium for sports and performances, plus a 20‑meter pool. The athletics program provides age‑appropriate pathways across badminton, basketball, cross country, football, golf, gymnastics, rugby, softball, swimming, tennis, touch rugby, track, and volleyball. The school participates in SEASAC and ACSIS leagues to support regional competition.
The school has an Innovation Center and Makerspace with 3D printers, robots, and advanced electronics. The Makerspace supports 3D printing, modeling, robotics, sewing, clay, and mobile-making carts for classroom use. The Innovation Center includes professional-grade video production facilities, green screen studios, laser cutting technology, latest-generation 3D printers, cameras, and multimedia equipment. These spaces support project-based learning across middle and high school.
The Co-Curricular Activities program offers over 550 activities year-round for Pre-K to Grade 12. Activities include 3D Printing, CAD, Coding, Fencing, Golf, Gymnastics, MUN, Radio Station Podcast, Robotics, and Rock Climbing, among others. 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 offer opportunities to perform and compete. Over 75% of students participate in one or more CCAs.
The Co-Curricular Activities program offers over 550 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. Lions Academies provide progressive, high‑intensity coaching in selected activities, while After‑School Activities (ASAs) are exploratory, non‑progressive, creative, and inclusive. The program also includes Field Studies and student‑led High School Clubs that broaden experiential and leadership‑oriented learning beyond the classroom.
Music Ensembles and Performing Arts are offered year‑round, with the Lions Music Academy providing private lessons in multiple Western, Eastern, and modern instruments and group performances across choral, strings, wind, orchestral, and rock ensembles. Drama productions and other performing arts opportunities provide performance platforms on campus, including performances in the Reagan Theater and other venues.
Model United Nations (MUN) is part of the co‑curricular program. The 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 Pre‑Kindergarten to Grade 5, and English as an Additional Language (EAL) supports learners from Kindergarten to Grade 10, with a Preparatory Course for Secondary School (PCS) for advanced language development.
ASAs, Music Ensembles, Drama Productions, and Sports Teams are available year‑round as co‑curricular activities. A Radio Station Podcast forms part of the activities program, and High School Clubs are student‑led, providing leadership opportunities. The Social Program supports social‑emotional learning through Second Step modules for Pre‑K to Grade 5, focusing on cooperation, communication, and anti‑bullying.
Service Learning at Stamford American is aligned with IB frameworks (PYP Taking Action, MYP Service as Action, and DP Creativity, Action Service), exposing students to community service locally and abroad. The Cambodia Hope School project, created in partnership with World Assistance for Cambodia, provides education resources to disadvantaged children in Kampong Chhnang. Initiatives such as the Month of Giving (2021) support Community Chest, It's Raining Raincoats, and other partners, with SDGs integrated into learning.
Student‑led High School Clubs empower leadership and initiative. The Field Studies Program includes a two‑day leadership training and student leaders who run pre‑ and post‑trip advisory curricula to extend learning beyond trips. Lions Academies deliver progressive coaching with a focus on developing leadership and professional skills through co‑curricular activities.
The Athletics Program provides age‑appropriate pathways across 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 Stamford American's ROAR values—Resilience, Outstanding character, Ambition, and Respect—while promoting wellness and active lifestyles.
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 school offers a Bilingual Program blending Mandarin and English for Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 5.
The Bilingual Program includes 400 minutes of immersive Mandarin learning each week.
Singapore International School of the Year (Editor's Choice) – 2025:
SAIS was honored with the award for 'Singapore International School of the Year' at the for 5 consecutive years at HoneyKids Asia Singapore Education Awards, recognizing the school's innovative approach to learning and commitment to student excellence.
This is on top of another 4 awards, making Stamford American 1 of the top winners of this prestigious education award,
Gold
-The Curriculum Awards (American)
-Best Outdoor Learning Programme
Silver
-Singapore Preschool of the Year
-The Curriculum Awards (International Baccalaureate)
Best Model United Nations (MUN) Award – 2021:
SAIS's Model United Nations team received the 'Best MUN' award in the Refugees & Technology category as part of the MUN Refugees Challenge 2021, organized by UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency.
Distinction Award for Excellence in Community Service – 2023:
The American Chamber of Commerce in Singapore presented SAIS with a Distinction Award for its outstanding corporate social responsibility initiatives, highlighting the school's commitment to community service and engagement.
National Business Award for Education – 2020:
SAIS secured the Singapore Business Review's National Business Award for Education in 2020, recognizing the school's efforts in developing ecological sustainability initiatives.
Council of International Schools (CIS) Accreditation:
- The CIS accreditation is a mark of quality in international education. It ensures that the school meets rigorous standards in student learning, faculty quality, and governance.
Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Accreditation:
- WASC accreditation provides assurance that the school maintains high educational standards based on continual improvement processes.
International Baccalaureate (IB) World School:
- As an IB World School, Stamford American is authorized to offer the IB programs, emphasizing critical thinking, intercultural understanding, and holistic education.
Edutrust Certification:
- This is a quality assurance scheme established by the Singaporean government to ensure private schools meet high standards in student protection, academic processes, and administration.
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 Schedule a Campus Tour: Prospective families are encouraged to visit the 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.
Submit an Online Application: Complete the online application form, which typically takes around 15 minutes. You'll 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:
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'll 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.
Academic Scholarships:
These are awarded to students who exhibit high academic potential and performance. The selection process for academic scholarships typically involves an evaluation of past academic records, teacher recommendations, and sometimes an interview or test.
Arts Scholarship:
Students with outstanding talent in visual arts, music, drama, or other areas of creative expression may apply for an arts scholarship. Applicants typically provide a portfolio or perform an audition to demonstrate their skills.
Sports Scholarship:
Athletically gifted students who demonstrate excellence in one or more sports can apply for a sports scholarship. The selection involves assessing their sports achievements, potential contributions to the school's sports program, and personal interviews.
Application Submission: Families interested in enrolling their children at SAIS first need to submit an application form along with the necessary documentation (such as previous school records and teacher recommendations).
Assessment and Evaluation: Once an application is submitted, the Admissions Team evaluates it based on the submitted documents. Applicants might also undergo age-appropriate assessments to align with the school's curriculum standards.
Assignment to Waitlist: If the desired grade level is full, the applicant is placed on a waitlist. Families will be notified about their position and any available updates periodically.
Offer of Placement: As spaces become available (due to withdrawals or other changes), the school extends enrollment offers to students on the waitlist. Priority is generally given based on several factors, such as date of application, sibling priority, and corporate debentures.
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 relevant fees.
GESS is situated on Dairy Farm Lane in the northwest of Singapore, near the Hillview and Bukit Panjang neighbourhoods. The campus is a short walk from Hillview MRT station, is served by bus stops directly in front of the school, and offers easy access to the Bukit Timah Expressway. Bus services 973, 966 and 972M stop in proximity to the campus, providing convenient public transport connections. GESS is also located near the scenic Dairy Farm Nature Reserve.
German European School Singapore (GESS) is divided into Preschool, Primary, Middle and High School sections.
German European School Singapore (GESS) is a co-educational day school serving students from pre-school (18 months) through Grade 12. Boarding facilities are not offered.
65 nationalities, 80% of these with European Backgrounds
GESS offers a comprehensive Learning Support department to assist students with learning difficulties or differences. Qualified teachers provide specialized interventions in areas such as literacy, numeracy, and general learning strategies. Support is tailored to individual needs, ensuring all students have the opportunity to reach their full potential.
GESS is recognized by the German government as an official German school abroad.
German European School Singapore is not affiliated with any religion. It welcomes families from all backgrounds.
Primary and secondary classes typically start at 8:05 am and end at 3:00 pm from Monday to Fridays. Students have a short morning break and a lunch break.
GESS provides a door-to-door school bus service to most areas in west and central Singapore as well as the East Coast. For Sentosa island, there is a centralised pick-up point.
All buses are equipped with safety belts and have attendants on board to ensure student safety.
The school does not have boarding facilities on campus. The school operates as a day school and provides transport options through the School Bus service for enrolled students.
The uniform is in GESS colours and embroidered with the GESS logo. The full uniform is available at the school shop. Students wear the uniform for the entire school day, on campus after school, and during school trips; exceptions are made when taking part in a Co-Curricular Activity that requires a specific alternative attire.
The canteen is operated by Howe Catering. Freshly prepared hot and cold meals, snacks and drinks are available daily, including a Grab-and-Go Sandwich Bar and a salad bar. The menu features dishes from local and international cuisines, with primary lunch sets around 5.50 SGD and secondary sets around 5.50–6.50 SGD; meals are served with rice or potatoes.
GESS is currently trying out a house system.
GESS is governed by the GESS Association, a private not-for-profit charity registered in Singapore. The Association is managed by a Board of Governors that provides strategic direction and holds overall financial responsibility; day-to-day operations are managed by the school administration. Association membership is open to parents, employees, corporates and individuals aged 18+, and the Board comprises ten members (eight elected by the Association at the AGM and two appointed by the Board).
German European School Singapore (GESS) runs two main curricula from Preschool to Grade 12: the International Baccalaureate (IB) and the German National Curriculum (delivered in German language).
The IB path includes the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and Diploma Programme (DP), culminating in examinations at the end of Grade 12.
The German pathway adheres to the educational standards of the German state of Thuringia. Primary years focus on building foundations in languages, mathematics, social studies, and science, along with artistic and physical education. As they progress through secondary, students work towards the Realschulabschluss in Grade 10 and conclude with either the IB Diploma or the German Abitur qualifications.
Typical class size: 12–18 students
Ratio: 1:12 to 1:18 (with assistants, so effectively lower)
Primary School (Grades 1–5)
Typical class size: around 24 students
Implied ratio: about 1:20–1:24
Middle School (Grades 6–8)
Similar class size structure: ~24 students
Ratio: about 1:20–1:24
High School (Grades 9–12 / IB Diploma) ~24 students per class
In IB years, some subjects are smaller → often closer to 1:15–1:20 in practice
IB DP in 2025
100% pass rate
1 Perfect score of 45 points
18% scored more than 40 points
We identify exceptional abilities in our students and nurture them through dedicated and structured programmes. Our goal is to make our students' learning truly limitless. Learning paths extend beyond the curriculum and classrooms, and there is no limit to how much your child can progress.
GESS integrate Social and Emotional Learning into daily school life. Homeroom teachers in preschool and primary levels lead pastoral care, engaging in daily contact and in-class activities to foster emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills. In secondary school, a dedicated team of homeroom and specialist teachers provides continuous support, mentoring, and guidance. The school also employs restorative practices for conflict resolution and offers both proactive and reactive wellbeing programs, including parent and student workshops.
GESS is committed to inclusive education, supporting students with diverse learning requirements. The school employs qualified special education teachers who focus on the development of each student, recognizing individual strengths and talents. A collaborative team, including learning support specialists and counsellors, works closely with classroom teachers to provide tailored support, ensuring that all students can thrive academically and socially.
To support students for whom English is an additional language, GESS offers specialized EAL programs. These programs are designed to enhance English language acquisition and development, enabling students to access the broader curriculum effectively. The school seeks experienced EAL teachers, particularly for middle school grades, to deliver targeted instruction and support.
Recognizing the importance of mental health, GESS has established a comprehensive Student Wellbeing Department, comprising counselling, safeguarding, and SEL teams. The department has introduced initiatives such as a new counselling program and a child protection curriculum. The school has a dedicated Student Wellbeing Centre, featuring counsellors' offices and a wellbeing pod for relaxation and group support sessions, providing a soothing environment to support emotional regulation.
German European School Singapore (GESS) implements clear safeguarding and child protection policies aligned with local and international standards. Staff receive regular training to identify risks, handle disclosures, and follow established reporting procedures. A designated Child Protection Officer coordinates policy updates and ensures consistent application across the school. Procedures for raising and addressing concerns are well-defined, with open lines of communication for families. Confidential support is available, and all processes focus on maintaining a safe environment for every child.
The German European School Singapore (GESS) was founded in 1971. The school operates as a not-for-profit association, guided by a volunteer Board of Governors comprising parents.
GESS has an international community with students from Germany, Europe, and beyond. The school organizes events such as carnival celebrations and Christmas bazaars that showcase German and European traditions. They also recognize local customs, fostering a broader cultural understanding among families.
At GESS the Parents' Committee serves as a vital link between parents and the school, communicating the views and interests of the parent community to both the School Management and the Board of Governors. Each class at GESS elects a Parent Representative annually who act as liaisons between parents and the school, offering support and addressing any school-related concerns. In collaboration with the Parents' Committee, GESS launched the GESS Parent Academy (GPA) in 2023. This initiative offers workshops designed to provide parents with valuable learning opportunities to support their children's education.
GESS has over 170 learning facilities on campus, including 23 collaborative learning and maker spaces and 13 dedicated sports facilities such as an Olympic-size swimming pool, a football pitch, an athletics area and four indoor sports halls. The campus includes 14 technology and science labs and 18 specialised arts facilities. The green campus occupies 5,300 square metres of outdoor learning and play space adjacent to Dairy Farm Nature Park, and a dedicated preschool campus serves children aged 2–5. Three libraries hold more than 27,000 books in 14 languages, supported by digital resources.
GESS offers 13 dedicated sports facilities, including an Olympic-size swimming pool, a football pitch, a climbing wall, an athletics area and four indoor sports halls, integrated into the curriculum and after-school activities.
GESS operates 14 technology and science labs and 18 specialised arts facilities. It runs three libraries with more than 27,000 books in 14 languages plus digital resources. The school is the only Asia-based school offering the Junior Engineering Programme.
GESS offers over 200 programmes beyond class through BeyondClassrooms. It provides 140 private music lessons, co-curricular activities, STEM, mother tongue languages, theatre, art and sports, with more than 40 after-school arts and music activities. It is the only Asia-based school offering the Junior Engineering Programme.
The school offers more than 15 languages from beginner to mother tongue levels. Dutch, Danish and German are offered in the curriculum, with Dutch and Danish having dedicated Mother Tongue Programmes from Preschool to Highschool. The Mother Tongue Programme also supports German, Mandarin, French and Spanish as additional mother tongue options; after-school Language Enrichment Programme offers Mandarin, Korean, Japanese, French, Spanish, Swedish and other languages. The Language Acquisition Programme starts in grade 6 with Mandarin, French, Spanish or German as options; beginner German is available if needed. In the IB Diploma Programme, students can choose from over 10 language options, and two languages studied at Language and Literature level can lead to a bilingual IB Diploma; mother tongue tutoring is available for languages not regularly offered.
The DIAP high school includes subjects taught in English or bilingually.
Preschool offers two language options: English or German. In the English stream parents can choose from either daily 30 min Mandarin or German. In the German stream, teaching is in German with specialist lessons conducted in English. Language support is available for both streams.
Singapore Education Gold Award - Preschool of the Year
GESS Preschool was awarded the prestigious Preschool Gold Award and named Singapore Preschool of the Year at the 2024 Singapore Education Awards. This honour reflects our team’s dedication to a positive, holistic education and our commitment to innovative, high-quality, personalised teaching that nurtures confident lifelong learners.
CASE Circle of Excellence Silver Award
The school’s BeyondClassrooms programme has been awarded a CASE Circle of Excellence Silver Award in 2023 for creating limitless learning experiences for students. In partnership with world-renowned corporations, business chambers, embassies, and sports institutions, the programme delivers more than 50 student engagement opportunities every year.
Educate Plus Excellence Award
GESS received this international excellence award in 2024 in recognition of outstanding alumni and community initiatives delivered on a shoestring budget through our BeyondClassrooms programme. The award demonstrates both the value of the programme and the school’s commitment to optimising available resources strategically to create opportunities for students.
German School Award – Deutsche Schulpreis
In 2022, GESS became the only school outside of Germany to be nominated for and receive this esteemed award - notably for our teaching quality, academic achievements, school culture and more.
The PIEoneer Awards 2025- Highly Commended Finalists
The PIEoneer Awards, hosted by The PIE News celebrate innovation and excellence in international education, recognising initiatives that drive meaningful change for students worldwide. The PIE (Professionals in International Education) network connects and empowers global education leaders to collaborate, share best practices, and shape the future of learning and we are humbled to stand alongside such inspiring initiatives from around the world.
fobizz School Award 2025–2026
GESS has been awarded the title of fobizz School 2025–2026, highlighting our commitment to using AI responsibly and creatively in learning. As one of the first schools in Asia to introduce fobizz, our students benefit from modern digital tools, interactive lessons, and opportunities to develop important skills like critical thinking, creativity, and digital literacy—preparing them for the future.
Eco-Schools Green Flag (2019)
– This international accreditation recognizes schools that have made notable efforts to foster environmental awareness and sustainability among students and staff.
Certificate of Appreciation from the Singapore Red Cross (2020)
– This acknowledgment highlights the school community’s meaningful contribution to fundraising and volunteer initiatives supporting the Singapore Red Cross.
“Exzellente Deutsche Auslandsschule” (Excellent German School Abroad): A distinction granted by the German government, confirming GESS meets strict German education standards for overseas schools.
Council of International Schools (CIS): An international accreditation body that ensures schools uphold globally recognized benchmarks of teaching, learning, and administration.
International Baccalaureate (IB) World School: Authorization to offer the Primary Years, Middle Years, and Diploma programmes, confirming compliance with IB’s curriculum and quality criteria.
Cambridge International Examinations Authorized Centre: Recognition to administer Cambridge examinations, indicating alignment with internationally respected academic and assessment practices.
Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
GESS is fully accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Schools, Western Association of Schools and Colleges (ACS WASC). This internationally recognised accreditation means our students receive a high-quality education that is valued by universities around the world, especially in North America, giving them a strong foundation and clear pathways for further studies. It also reflects our commitment to excellence and continuous improvement.
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. 1. If you would like to see GESS in person, book an open house or schedule a campus tour. This gives you an opportunity to get a feel for the learning environment and ask questions about curriculum or student life. The admissions team can show you around the facilities while explaining the school’s bilingual offerings and extracurricular activities.
2. Prepare and submit the official application alongside required documents. Typically, GESS will ask for your child’s passport copy, birth certificate, academic reports, and vaccination records. These records help the admissions team verify eligibility and place your child correctly, especially if you’re transitioning from a different schooling system.
3. Wait for a confirmation from the admissions team regarding any placement assessments or interviews. In some cases, GESS may require a language screening or additional academic checks, especially if English or German is not your child’s first language. This step allows the school to understand your child’s academic readiness and language proficiency. It also helps them tailor support services for a smooth transition into the school.
4. Discuss curriculum pathway options to ensure a suitable academic fit. GESS offers a German curriculum track and an International Baccalaureate (IB) track, so the admissions team will help you determine which one aligns best with your child’s background and future plans. They can address any questions about class sizes, course content, and progression through the school years.
5. Review the fee structure, payment schedule, and any deposits required for securing your child’s spot. At this stage, GESS will guide you through the tuition, building, and application fees, highlighting any sibling discounts or payment options. Ensure you understand any deadlines to confirm enrollment. Having clarity on these financial details helps you plan your family’s relocation budget more accurately.
6. Finalize your child’s admission by arranging any necessary relocation documents or student pass requirements. The school will confirm your child’s enrollment and share orientation details, along with the start date. You’ll also receive information about uniforms, transportation, and other practical matters.
Eligibility and Purpose
• The program is open to students (of any nationality) from around 14 years old and above who meet the entry requirements for GESS’ secondary curricula.
• It is designed to recognize and support students with solid academic records and a proactive attitude toward school life.
• The scholarship can apply to both the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma pathway and the German curriculum leading to the Abitur.
Coverage and Duration
• Depending on various factors such as the student’s academic history and overall profile, the scholarship may cover a percentage of tuition fees, up to a possible full subsidy.
• It typically remains in effect for the duration of the student’s program (e.g., through to the IB Diploma or Abitur), provided the student continues to meet the required academic and conduct standards.
• Other costs, such as exam fees or co-curricular expenses, are usually not covered and remain the responsibility of the family.
Application and Selection
• Applicants generally need to submit a completed scholarship application form along with academic transcripts, teacher references, and any other supporting documents that reflect their interests and achievements outside the classroom.
• The school may invite shortlisted candidates for interviews. During this process, students have a chance to discuss their academic goals and how they plan to contribute to the GESS community.
Maintaining Scholarship Status
• Once awarded, scholarship recipients are expected to maintain consistent academic results, show positive engagement in school activities, and uphold the school’s values.
• Periodic reviews help ensure that students continue to meet the scholarship conditions. If performance or conduct requirements are not met, the scholarship may be adjusted or withdrawn.
Application Submission:
• Families begin by submitting an online application and the required supporting documents.
• An application fee is paid at this stage.
Waitlist Placement:
• If the year group you have applied for has reached capacity, your child’s name will be placed on the waitlist.
• The waitlist is generally managed on a first-come, first-served basis, but siblings of enrolled students may receive priority.
Notification Process:
• When a spot becomes available, the Admissions team contacts the next family on the waitlist.
• Families are usually given a specified window of time to accept or decline the offered place.
Moving from Overseas:
• If you are planning a move to Singapore, it can be helpful to submit your application early to secure a spot or a favorable position on the waitlist.
• The Admissions team can guide you through any questions about estimated wait times and help you navigate your child’s possible start date.