Singapore – Singapore’s education landscape is entering a new phase as the Ministry of Education (MOE) gradually phases out the long-standing Gifted Education Programme (GEP) in its current primary school format. The transition, which will unfold between 2026 and 2028, introduces a refreshed model designed to support high-ability learners more broadly across the school system.
In response to these changes, Singapore Asia Publishers (SAP) has highlighted a curated range of educational resources designed to support students as they develop critical thinking, inquiry-based learning, and strong academic foundations under the new model.
Education experts note that the shift represents one of the most significant changes to Singapore’s gifted education framework since the GEP was introduced in 1984. The updated approach aims to provide more inclusive opportunities for academically strong learners while maintaining pathways for advanced intellectual development.
Singapore’s Transition from GEP to a Broader High-Ability Learning Framework
Under the current system, the Gifted Education Programme (GEP) identifies roughly 1% of each cohort and places selected students in specialised classes at designated primary schools starting from Primary 4. Students undergo a two-stage identification exercise during Primary 3, after which successful candidates join the programme.
Beginning in 2027, this model will change significantly.
MOE will discontinue new Primary 4 admissions into the GEP. Instead, a two-tier support system will be introduced to ensure that more students with strong academic potential can benefit from enriched learning opportunities.
The new structure includes:
- Expanded school-based provisions in every primary school
- Centre-based advanced modules hosted at selected schools across Singapore
Education analysts say the refreshed system is intended to reach a broader segment of students while maintaining depth in advanced learning.
Under the revised framework, approximately 10% of each student cohort will benefit from enhanced school-based programmes, compared to roughly 7% previously.
New Identification Process Starting in 2026
One of the most notable changes involves how students are identified for advanced learning opportunities.
Beginning in August 2026, Primary 3 students will participate in a one-stage standardised identification exercise, replacing the previous two-stage screening and selection process used for GEP.
The updated identification method also introduces a more flexible evaluation system. In addition to the Primary 3 assessment, schools will be able to nominate students based on teacher observations and student work.
Additional identification opportunities will also occur:
- At the end of each semester in Primary 4
- At the end of each semester in Primary 5
This approach allows students to enter advanced learning pathways at multiple stages rather than relying on a single high-stakes selection test.
Education observers note that the more flexible identification process may reduce stress among students while providing more opportunities for late bloomers to demonstrate their capabilities.
15 Centres Across Singapore to Host Advanced Modules
As part of the new initiative, 15 primary schools across Singapore will serve as centres for advanced learning modules. These centres are strategically located to ensure geographic accessibility and convenient public transport connections for students.
The designated centres include schools such as Ahmad Ibrahim Primary, Clementi Primary, Queenstown Primary, Tampines Primary, Yu Neng Primary, and others located across different parts of the island.
Students selected for the programme will remain enrolled in their home schools and attend advanced modules at these centres after school hours.
This approach differs significantly from the current GEP model, where students typically transfer to a designated GEP school upon selection.
Education planners say the new structure aims to preserve school community connections while still providing access to advanced learning opportunities.
Focus on Curiosity, Creativity, and Critical Thinking
Another key shift lies in the curriculum philosophy behind the advanced modules.
Unlike the traditional GEP structure, which extends mainstream curriculum topics in greater depth and breadth, the new modules are designed to cultivate:
- Curiosity and inquiry
- Creative problem-solving
- Critical thinking
- Interdisciplinary exploration
MOE has emphasised that the advanced modules are not intended as exam preparation programmes or as a pathway to gain an advantage in national examinations.
Instead, they will focus on real-world problem-solving and intellectual exploration.
Students may attend weekly subject-based modules in English, Mathematics, or Science during the school term. Each session will typically last around two hours per week.
In addition, interdisciplinary modules during school holidays will allow students to explore topics that connect multiple subject areas.
Education experts believe this approach aligns with global trends that prioritise analytical thinking and creativity alongside academic excellence.
Supporting Students Through the Transition
As Singapore’s education system adapts to the new model, educational resource providers are also adjusting to better support students and families navigating the transition.
Singapore Asia Publishers, a leading educational publisher known for producing academic and assessment materials used widely in Singapore and beyond, has highlighted several resources that complement the philosophy of inquiry-based learning promoted by the new framework.
The publisher notes that building strong reasoning skills, problem-solving abilities, and conceptual understanding is increasingly important as education shifts away from rote memorisation toward deeper intellectual engagement.
Among the resources highlighted are books designed to support learning across core subjects such as Mathematics, Science, and English.
For mathematics development, the Super IQ Maths series offers structured exercises that encourage analytical thinking and conceptual understanding. The series, authored by mathematics educator Loh Cheng Yee, provides progressive challenges suitable for students from preschool through primary school.
Students interested in more advanced mathematical reasoning can also explore the Maths Olympiad series developed by renowned mathematics educator Terry Chew. These materials are designed to introduce students to non-routine problem solving and competition-style questions.
For science learning, SAP highlights the Conquer Science series, which encourages inquiry-based thinking through daily practice questions and open-ended exercises. The materials aim to help students connect scientific concepts with real-world applications.
In the area of language development, the Let’s Advance in English series supports listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills through integrated exercises that promote practical communication and comprehension.
According to education specialists, resources that emphasise reasoning, curiosity, and interdisciplinary thinking align closely with the goals of Singapore’s new advanced learning model.
Looking Ahead to 2028
The transition from GEP to the new framework will occur gradually.
Key milestones include:
- August 2026: First cohort sits the new one-stage identification exercise
- 2027: Centre-based advanced modules begin and GEP stops admitting new Primary 4 students
- 2028: Final GEP cohort completes Primary 6, marking the end of the programme
Education observers believe the updated framework represents an important evolution in how Singapore supports academically strong students.
By expanding opportunities for enrichment while maintaining flexible entry points, the system aims to recognise diverse forms of academic potential and provide appropriate challenges for a broader group of learners.
About Singapore Asia Publishers
Singapore Asia Publishers (SAP) is one of Singapore’s established educational publishers, producing academic books and learning resources for students across various subjects and grade levels. The company focuses on creating materials that support conceptual understanding, critical thinking, and practical learning skills aligned with modern educational approaches.
As Singapore’s education system continues to evolve, publishers, educators, and families alike will play a key role in ensuring that students are equipped with the tools they need to thrive in increasingly dynamic learning environments.
For Media Inquiries, Interviews, or Client Consultations:
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Website: https://sapgrp.com/
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