National Education

Changing Contexts of NE

Existing and emerging social, political and economic trends in our national and global contexts over the last decade have necessitated a review of our approach to NE. These trends have the potential to influence how our students perceive and understand issues that impact Singapore:

Changing Demographics: Rising number of elderly citizens, more diverse resident and
student population profile;
Evolving socio-political climate: A more informed population wanting greater say in
political and social matters, greater exchange of ideas through social media, and
emergence of civic advocacy groups;
Disruptions are occurring more quickly: Shifting attitudes towards globalisation and
foreign relations; technological shifts impacting our economy, society and ways of life.

NE provides opportunities for our students to explore and examine their identity as Singaporeans and arrive at a common set of ideals and values. In view of the changing local and global
contexts, NE has to be empowering, aspirational and inspire all of us to take collective ownership of our future as a nation.

Design of Students' NE Experiences

Through CCE Lessons which provide the time for teachers to engage and build relationship with their students through explicit values-teaching and contemporary issues discussions.
Through Key Student Development Experiences which contribute towards the holistic development of our students. These include:
- NE Commemorative Days
- Values in Action
- Cohort Learning Journeys
- NRIC Presentation Ceremony (for Secondary)
Across various subjects such as Social Studies, History, Science, Music and Art - where learning of content knowledge also provides opportunities for exploration into national identity, contemporary issues as well as Singapore's constraints and vulnerabilities.
Daily Routines such as Everyday Responsibilities and the Flag-raising Ceremony are also infused with NE. Through Everyday Responsibilities, student develop a sense of responsibility and care for their own and shared spaces through daily cleaning and adapting sustainability practices in school and at home. During the Flag-raising Ceremony, our students sing the National Anthem and take the National Pledge to reinforce the values we stand for as a nation.

About NE Commemorative Days

National Education (NE) Commemorative Days are linked to defining moments in Singapore's history. Besides classroom lessons, schools can customise learning activities to create holistic learning experiences for our students.

The four NE Commemorative Days are in the table below.