Singapore schools

[CeliaChettam]

I was bobbing about here in Dec when I first applied for a job in Singapore. Have now been asked to go visit next month for a possible July start, and we have dc of 3 and 8. The 8 yr old has Asperger's Syndrome but copes well in mainstream as long as everyone is sensitive to his needs and sensible about meeting them. I'm only going to have one day to check out schools. Does anyone have any advice and/or recommendations? Cost isn't an issue because the company pays, and if we can find the right school we're happy to work housing around it. I have read lots of the Singapore threads but this is rather specific and also time sensitive...

I would think an international school would suit him better than a local one (unfortunately local mainstream education still does not cope with special needs well). I've heard SAS (American School) has spaces. Tanglin Trust School has a great reputation (though not sure how sensitive they are, other Sg-based mums might have a better insight). SJI International could also have potential.

Another one which I've heard that is quite inclusive - Dover Court Preparatory

There is a group run by a Tanglin Mum who is called Lydia and the group is called SSNAP, the group is growing for many who have children with some sort of difficulties and it has become a really useful sounding board.

I would suggest that you contact Lydia, she has an amazing amount of knowledge and has been really helpful to many.

The group is called SSNAP here is their link
www.ssnap.info/

Don't hesitate to email them at [email protected]

I hope this is of some help. It's always best to talk to someone in the know.

Thank you very much! I have e-mailed Lydia and had a look at the site. Tanglin Trust and the American School both look possible (though scarily big, but I suppose people find their places). I just hope the best ones have space - I can see this all happening in a rush at the last minute...

They are very big but infant/junior and senior schools are somehow separate.

I can only speak of what I know and that is Tanglin. my son is in infant and it is certainly a very nurturing environment, not intimidating at all.

There is a separate SN class in our year group and a few children in our class also regularly join that class 2 to 3 times a week for support whilst staying mainstream.
Of course each situation is different and its best to seek the schools advice on what's best for you.

Good luck!