Teacher's View on Singapore's Education After 41 Years

[@leenathayil2039]

Hi Max, I'm a baby boomer who went to Spore schools and only did Uni in the USA. Even back in the 70s and 80s, there wasn't really a 100% rote learning systems in schools. Throughout my secondary neighbourhood school, on top of all the core subjects syllabus, like math, science, etc, we must attend the home economics classes, basic electricity workshops, metalwork workshops, woodwork workshops and technical drawing classes, physical education - ALL of these were built into the school curriculum for the school year. They were not extra curriculum, they were mandatory for all students. For me it was an environment filled with creativity, innovation and thinking processes. In my primary school, all of us had civic, moral education classes and on top of that we must learn our national language which was Malay and the name of the Malay curriculum was "3rd Language". Again harnessing and developing our linguistic skills from young age. We also had lots of other extra curriculum activities, organised events, etc., that were optional. Lots of craft, play and learn activities were build into our primary school curriculum besides english, math, science and other core subjects. Both my primary and secondary educations were in the 70s to 80s. I'm super grateful for my Spore education as I'm now working in Canada for 2 decades in technology industry and nearing my retirement. Majority of my classmates and schoolmates did well in life.

[@solvenet]

Ok boomer I'm from dat era too😂 we learned a bit of everything besides classroom lessons, the hands-on stuff like cutting dovetail joint , pouring molten metal into sand mold, knurling, brazing, tempering, milling.. can't say for sure good or no good. Alot is more to appreciate stuff, imo, most of it not applied in working life.

[@beezlebub9]

@@leenathayil2039 exactly

[@loyckfiona]

Wat u mentioned are gone….wat a pity.

[@Slla-th5vt]

U are lucky to get a 3rd language curriculum. I don't think that is common in all primary schools in Singapore.

[@uchicago7851]

Asians = Rote learn, memorize, memorize, memorize, morning till night Whites = Creative thinkers, win most of the science Nobel Prizes, why do you think ALL the scientists in the Manhattan Project were Americans, Brits, Germans, and a lone Italian? No Chinese or Malay or Indian or Japanese or Thai involved. Who gave birth to computer science? Babbage and Turing (both Brits). Internet? A Brit called Berners-Lee. Why couldn't someone called Lim or Tan or Chong have invented the Internet? Cause the idea didn't even cross their minds. That is just the way Nature created different races. Europeans have bigger frontal lobes and therefore more creative. Asians may be intelligent, but not creative. Look at Singapore. Their secondary school students regularly top PISA global tests, but how many Nobel laureates has Singapore produced? *Z E R O*

[@boonavite3200]

Memorising the multiplication table enabled me and my kids to solve Math questions faster. Nothing wrong with being efficient. The international kids of the same age were still using their hands and fingers for 9 times table when my kids could just say the answer in a heart beat.

[@Hermit-Crab]

It's a gross misconception that a child can learn to be innovative and creative without first being well grounded in the fundamentals and essentials of the particular field of learning in which he seeks to excel in innovativeness and creativity. Has there ever been any great, innovative scientist who is not thoroughly well grounded in science? As the Chinese loves to say, before you learn to run, please first learn to walk.

[@YumchaGirl]

I have to agree with you here. In Australia there’s been a swing back towards more thorough learning which the whole student led approach ignores. It’ll be interesting to see how it all pans out. I am a big believer in balance.

[@s.7980]

I also agree with you here. In the US, there’s this idea, the child can fly without learning to walk or run. This approach has been dismal and ruining students’ chances of a good education.

[@uchicago7851]

@@s.7980 And yet, the US has produced many hundreds of Nobel Prize winners in the sciences, and also the only man to have won two Nobel Prizes in Physics. How many Nobel Prizes in the sciences has Singapore produced? Z E R O. Oh, let me guess....Singapore is a YOUNG country, give it time, it will produce its share of Nobel laureates, blah blah blah. Sorry, but creativity is hereditary. You can rote-learn for a thousand years and still not produce anything original. You CAN fly with minimal training in walking. All you need is the right DNA. Only a certain tribe has the right mix of IQ and creativity, and Easterners are not it.

[@aniraz90s]

During my time (in the 90s), my teacher would hit my hand with rulers, pull my ears, shoved me and make me stand infront or outside of the class as punishment. Mind you, I only forgot to bring my English textbook and forgot to do some homework. I was only primary 1. It was the same in primary 2. By primary 3 I got so scared of my teachers, I tried my very best to be the "perfect" student by doing my homework and making sure that I don't forget my books. Apparently that's not enough, I have to also be able to answer the questions asked. If not, I will get humiliated infront of my classmates. It really affected me until I got a very caring teacher in primary 5. She noticed I was always looking down on my table refusing to look up at the whiteboard and refusing to make eye contact with her. She was concerned for me and notified my mother. I did told my mother what my teachers did to me since primary 1 but she just brushed it off. Parents last time will blame their children instead so no point. Anyways, fast forward now that I have my own kids and already in primary school. I made sure no teachers ever lay a finger on my kids. Now it's much better since they don't believe in hitting children as part of learning or punishment. I see a more positive environment in primary school and the teachers are way nicer. My son started primary school having behavioral issues where he doesn't like anyone getting into his personal space so he would swat his classmates away physically. They taught him how to respond without using physical gestures instead talk nicely to tell them 'please don't stand too near to me.' It's when I realized how different it is now as compared to my time. I don't know for international schools cos I don't have any friends from there. All i know is, my son enjoy going to school even more since starting primary school. He like making friends and having conversations with his teachers. I see so much improvement because he's diagnosed with mild autism. He's forgetful but his teachers doesn't punish him. They are not as strict as during my time. I also don't send my kids to tuition or enrichment classes. I let them relax and play games. I just told them to make sure they have finished their homework and done learning all the spelling. I don't want to stress them out because I've heard of too many cases where kids are worn out by so much activities and they will bottle their emotions. Some will end up in tragedies. I only told my son to try his best even if there's mistakes, it's fine. Just learn from the mistakes and try again. I'm glad he did very well in school despite playing game almost everyday at home. He knows that school is when he need to study and try his best. Then he can come home and relax if he doesn't have any homework. I will bring them out to indoor playgrounds, arcades, short vacations, shopping, etc. to spend time together as family. Sometimes living a simple life with no expectations, appreciate what you already have is all that is needed to feel content and blessed. 😊

[@nityas999]

Couldnt agree more..I had a classmate (girl) who happened to commit suicide in P3 because teachers would scold/hit her with rulers everyday when she wouldnt do her homwork or fail in her tests..She was found hanging by her parents at only 8 years of age!! I still remember her beautiful face ..This incident shook me and i realised how the teachers and her own parents had failed her..:( I too never let any teacher scold or punish my kid just because he forgets to bring his book or do some homework, at the samw time I do counsel him the right way to ensure he doesnt repeat the msitakws again.. We need to be aware of ghe fact that we are souls in human form and that life is the preparation and Death is the real exam..No matter how much recognition or fame or money or how many degrees you accumulate , you will leave everything behind after your death..And if you have accumulated too much karma and if you are born again you will have to go through everything you did in yoyr last birth, which means study again , look for a job, get martied , have kids and die again.. So wjat you do in life doesnt matter , its how beautifully you live and how content you are in life that does..Namaste..

[@52hz52hz]

For me, corporation primary school 1990-1996 getting slapped/ ear pulled.

[@sgdestiny]

As an educator, and one that worked in the lower rung of the system for 10years… i think as long as your kid is healthy… and can get any jobs when he or she is about age.. its enough

[@JenniferKim-kv8rx]

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard expat friends of mine say they pulled their kids out of international schools bc they weren’t learning anything. 8 hours of free play doesn’t = critical thinking. Given a chance, most expat parents would put their kids into “lower tier” local schools for the mere fact that they would actually learn something rather then forking over $20,000+ for schools filled with a transient student body and sometimes teachers as well. I’m a foreigner who managed to get their kid into a local school. And I can’t tell you what an amazing education my daughter is getting. This characterisation of the local school system by Ms Mills is outdated and just plain wrong.

[@azizsafudin]

Would you pay the same $20,000+ for the local school?

[@anchored555]

8 hours of free play does not equal to “critical thinking”. How true. I’ve also heard of the term “self-directed learning” which sounds great, but all it means is that there are no classes, and you go educate yourself on the subject while your teacher/lecturer takes a break haha.

[@elliotoliver8679]

100% local schools are best

[@JenniferKim-kv8rx]

@@azizsafudinYES! And more!

[@JenniferKim-kv8rx]

@@azizsafudin YES! And more!

[@s.7980]

I’m sorry, Max, but I cannot continue watching. There’s clearly a conflict of interest. She’s looking as education as a business but Singapore’s public education is not a business. As someone who has experienced both the US’s and Singapore’s k-12 public systems, there are pros and cons to both but the latter is doing something right because it caters to the masses, and not the elites only.

[@elsieyong2139]

What?? Our children don't memorise chapters and chapters and chapters of passages!! Dont exaggerrate! She is ridiculous! Stop listening to her nonsense.

[@anchored555]

Rote learning, memorization and lack of critical/creative thinking skills might well have been fair criticisms of the old SG education system more than 15-20 years ago. However, our education system is constantly being improved and I believe such criticism is no longer justified. Singapore started taking part in PISA (Programme for International Student Assessment) in 2009. Since 2012, Singapore students have outperformed their peers worldwide in Creative Thinking. 60% of our students scored the two highest proficiency levels (5 or 6) in Creative Thinking, which was more than twice the OECD average proportion (27%). The students who took part were drawn from a representative sampling of 6,600 15 year olds from all 149 secondary schools and 15 private schools in SG, and not just a narrow, hothoused sample. (Even our students from lower socio-economic status homes did better than their OECD peers and even outperformed the average OECD student.) Of course, there is always room for improvement, but the old criticisms of our education system as being based on rote learning, memorisation and lack of critical/creative thinking are no longer valid, and our stellar PISA performance in the last 10 years or so proves it beyond all doubt. Time to stop the silly self-flagellation, or suck it up when it’s thrown at us, because such criticism is outdated and no longer valid.

[@Rohit-qk8jy]

Singapore has a way of cheating in the PISA assessment tests. The Ministry of Education (MOE) simply gets students from premier schools like ACS (Independent) to take them. How do I know this? I'm from ACS (Independent) myself. While I'm very fond of my alma mater, I don't understand how taking a sample from the most elite and academically competitive schools in a country can accurately reflect the proficiency of the *average* student in the country. Of course, students from ACS (Independent), RI and Hwa Chong will beat the average student in other OECD countries. Try giving the test to River Valley students or those from vocational institutes and you'll see our competitive "advantage" will be weaker. Also, we're very good at churning out people with paper qualifications but who are unable to translate these skills to real-world success. Why are so many executive and managerial roles in MNCs filled by non-Singaporeans? Critical thinking cannot be neatly reflected by some PISA assessment alone. I have come to realise Singaporeans are (unfortunately) among the least inquisitive/most uncurious people I know. They are also highly introverted (by and large) and lack people skills. They might get by in Singapore where the average person is more introverted. But they flounder when encountering competition from abroad.

[@anchored555]

⁠​⁠@@Rohit-qk8jyI don’t think you read my post correctly. MOE in their press release dated 18 June 2024, stated that the students who took part in PISA in 2022, were a representative sampling of 6,600 15 year olds from ALL 149 secondary schools and 15 private schools. So they were not just from ACS(I), RI or Hwa Chong as you would like us to believe. Yes, paper qualifications don’t necessarily translate into real world success. But a good education definitely stands you in good stead. I’m sorry to hear you’ve met only uninspiring and unimpressive Singaporeans. My experience is quite different, and I know of many Singaporeans working for top MNCs/law firms overseas, and these are not doing charity, but only recruit from the best around the world.

[@Rohit-qk8jy]

@@anchored555 How many from the sample were from ITE? And how many were from ACS (Independent) and RI? What is the exact breakown? And why don't I see stellar academic results being translated into real-world success? (i.e. more Singaporeans in PMET positions rather than foreigners)

[@fongjosephine]

I think the Singaporean education system has progressed beyond the old rote-learning and memorisation - many schools are very advanced in the pedagogy. It is unfair to make such sweeping statements. I also wonder why she thinks that Caucasians are respected globally ...

[@anchored555]

@@Rohit-qk8jyI’m sure you can get the breakdown from MOE yourself if you’re really interested in proving that MOE “cheated”.😂

[@kathiravanbhupathy6196]

As a Singaporean Educator, I think there has been a rather alarming number of assumptions and sweeping statements by the school leader about the sg system. Singapore has well moved on from rote learning many eons ago and strongly encourage critical thinking. Admittedly, the school leader wasn’t aware of the differences between her curriculum and the national one which is very worrying for someone running a school. Our local schools produce good students who are collaborative and can think critically. Obviously not every child (as with all countries) is going to be a perfect product of the education system but I am confident ours works pretty well. For context I had stints teaching in Australia and I am well aware of the challenges faced by teachers there. I won’t get into much details here.

[@aragorn256]

No, please do go into details. We all want to know.

[@beezlebub9]

@@kathiravanbhupathy6196 exactly

[@YumchaGirl]

But she’s not catering to the local community.

[@anchored555]

@@YumchaGirl She isn’t, because she’s running an international school. But she made unfounded comparisons between our local schools and international schools, which should be corrected.

[@FT-od4xv]

The issue is she made incorrect and bias statement of our system , our children and our parent. It does not matter who she caters to. ​@@YumchaGirl

[@helenteoct]

I was a teacher with the MOE about 12 years ago and at that time the emphasis was already on collaboration, teamwork, critical thinking. The MOE even sets aside funds for students to travel overseas to broaden their perspective. I think Ms Mills has a pretty out-dated, totally wrong idea of the education system here. Has she actually taught in the Singapore school system?

[@user-po6ze9ev5e]

Woah! So many general sweeping statements about how our students are learning or how teachers are teaching in the classroom?

[@audreygiamlayhoon]

Agree, it's an Amazing display of ignorance

[@Rohit-qk8jy]

I'm sorry but as I watched the video I found myself agreeing with so many things she said. She was spot on about the propensity of the SG education system to promote rote memorisation without critical thinking or application. Just ask yourself this: if Asian education systems are so good, why are the bulk of Nobel Prize winners, R&D innovations and technological breakthroughs still occurring in the West? The only Asian country I can think of which has somehow been an exception to this and produced a respectable number of Nobel laureates (and facilitated innovation) is Japan. The four "Asian Tiger" economies which took off later (including Singapore) achieved rapid growth not through productivity rises but by marshalling inputs like labour and capital in a "Stalinist" manner. There is a good paper written about this by Paul Krugman from the early 1990s. Innovation does not simply happen because the government wants it to happen. You have to loosen control and let ideas be exchanged freely. But this is antithetical to what the PAP government would allow. We rank a few places above North Korea in terms of freedom of press for good reason. Control over the media through SPH's monopoly has impeded critical thinking among Singaporeans.

[@Invic_Silver]

It's true tho, if you ignore economic factors. All things equal, both systems have created outstanding students and those with great potential can excel in both systems. Mediocre students can probably excel in either one but not both. Weak students are going to be shit anywhere they go. Harsh truth

[@anchored555]

@Rohit-qk8jy I wouldn’t use the number of Nobel Prize winners as a key gauge of how good/bad Asian education systems are. Here’s some applied critical thinking for you. Instead of automatically assuming that the relatively small number of Asian recipients of Nobel Prizes thereby proves that Asian education systems are inherently lacking, ask yourself WHO decides on who wins a Nobel prize, and WHAT are their criteria. The parties who decide on Nobel prize winners are mostly western institutions eg the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, the Karolinska Institute, and westerners. How well do they understand non-western systems? Not surprisingly, there may also be a western bias. Yes, the West has dominated R&D innovations and technological advances in the past, but currently, China (not Japan!) leads the world in many high tech fields like EVs, AI, electric batteries, drones, 5G/6G, semiconductor chips, etc to the extent that the West feels threatened. Did any Chinese scientists get Nobel Prizes for their breakthroughs? Apparently, many Chinese scientific papers are not even translated into English, and thus unknown to the English speaking world. In short, the small number of Asian Nobel Prize winners may be due to many possible reasons that have nothing to do with Asian education systems being allegedly inferior. Another point you make is that SG ranks just a few points ahead of N Korea in press freedom. Instead of blindly accepting that at face value, ask yourself WHO did the ranking, WHAT criteria did they use, and what is their agenda. (Another exercise in critical thinking!) The ranking is done by Reporters without Borders (RSF), a French international NGO committed to advocating freedom of expression and information. Unlike RSF, SG believes in responsible reporting and the right to reply to unfair/inaccurate press statements about SG, as well as clamping down on fake news. Understandably therefore, SG ranks low on press freedom in their book. But we are not losing any sleep over that, because we set policies to meet our own unique needs and circumstances, and don’t need external endorsement. SG isn’t perfect, but blind acceptance of any and all western criticism of SG smacks of the old subservient colonial mentality (that presumed, wrongly, that everything western is superior and correct), and impedes our ability to think critically and challenge faulty assumptions. LKY himself is perhaps the best example of a deep critical thinker who fearlessly thought out of the box. If he had succumbed to pressure to go with the flow and adopt the western model of liberal democracy for SG like many ex-British colonies did, we probably wouldn’t be what or where we are today.

[@jcchong8238]

@@Rohit-qk8jy The concept of "more" freedom is a double edge sword. Are you very certain that most Singaporeans are sharp in their thinking to know what is "right' or "not" ? You just look at our Singapore kids, well rounded education but not street smart. Having high scores in International competition etc.. only prove that Singaporean students have an aptitude to learn - that's all. Statistics and not much else really.

[@Rainbow_1981]

I'm glad the Singapore education seems to helping kids be independent/collaborate

[@joyoftessa]

Singapore local schools dont teach rote learning anymore. However whatever critical thinking or high level thinking infused into the system, singaporeans will find a way to create a formula on how to do well for that test. Then everyone follows suit and memorises the new formula

[@wtprwswtp7972]

rote memorisation is also a very important part of learning - but this is at the basic level. E.g if you are going to derive a formula from first principle for every problem you encounter or be distracted to take time to look it up at every instance, how are you going to solve the main problem? one cannot operate at an efficient level without a body of known facts & figures to easily recalled these info, so that one can build on them, be creative and think out of the box....the box is not there if you dont have any memory of it to work from.

[@jinshensoon2240]

I don’t think Singapore’s education system is the problem. More of a culture of being risk adverse and socially reserved stopping us in our adult lives from being entrepreneurs and in the creative line. I have met so many Singaporeans that are talented in arts, music, comedy and full of opinions, but they kept to themselves as it is culturally appropriate to do so here. Singaporeans are being sandwiched between eastern culture of humility, and western culture of confidence.

[@jinshensoon2240]

@@MAJOYDACIA I worked with so many westerners that like to talk straight out of their ass, very little facts and sometimes just straight lies. This is towards client and senior management who knew lesser. It is practically immoral and unethical. Most Singaporeans I know will never do this, even though they know it will help their growth in career. This is the humility I think people should have. Not this arrogant and ignorant western bs. I am generalising, as is my experience, majority of expats are like this. But there are minority that are great 👍🏼.

[@bluefly1]

It's true for all of asia

[@salahuddinhaque3589]

100 percent agree with this

[@kwwong1148]

I think Mills is not very knowledgeable about the current Singapore's education system. She seems to hold perceptions about Singapore's education system that are very outdated. The rote learning and memorisation approach to learning has been deemphasised many years or decades ago. While they are still pockets of rote learning in Singapore schools, the education system has largely shifted towards emphasising creativity and innovation. Granted Singapore has yet to groom a Steve Job or Mark Zuckerberg, we do have a fair share of startups and entrepreneurships that have reached the International arena. Our students have also performed way above the standards for creativity in the PISA tests. Some credit must go to the Singapore school system. Mills also mentioned that in International Educational Systems (and KBH in particular), the emphasis is on giving students the leeway to think and express their opinions, which is good, so that the crème de la crème can filter up to the top. That is easy for any country where there is a large number of students and basing on the critical mass theory, there will bound to have a handful of the smart ones who will carry the torch and lead the rest. But when you are like Singapore where the local population is only a handful of millions and even fewer students, every student count. And it is for the Singapore education system to prod and kneed every one of these young minds to build up their capabilities, rote learning and memorising notwithstanding, so that every Singapore student can maximise their fullest potential.

[@simroysten7963]

Those people you quoted are part of the globalist elite where everything has been well developed well before they are in the picture. These are people born with a silver spoon in their mouths. If you must know, face book was developed by D ARPA and Severin was "bought out" earlier in the game.

[@junbecks]

​@@MAJOYDACIA so now that youre offended, what will you do about it?

[@davdk7302]

I dont think Ms Mills know the local system well enough to make comments. Most of her comments comes from little contact, western impressions from a very long ago system in the 1960s...i encounter.quite a few intl sch colleagues who have been travelling all these years after graduating fr teacher training in UK, Aus since the 70s, 80s and their methods and approach are just that....here there is constant training, continual teacher education...but perhaps they travel to new places so.much there is no time or reason to upgrade..and they assume the education systems around the world are a throw back from the 60s or 70s...😂

[@KatJade269]

Sorry, Max ... I can’t really watch this video. She has 40 years of experience but has not taught in our local schools, so .... Our culture differs from the West. I’ll watch your next video on another topic.

[@FT-od4xv]

I didnt finish the interview either.

[@wtprwswtp7972]

yes, it was too painful to watch

[@user-co1ft5pk1p]

In our schools, discipline is strict but we do value collaboration among students working in groups and we certainly encourage students to express their opinions. It would be good to visit schools here to find out more.

[@contactkelvinsim]

This channel should flag this video as Infomercial.

[@4ngeIwing]

Lol yea she's trying to sell her school as being "better" by non-stop saying how KBH is so good at this, better at that, and how local schools are bad bad bad

[@beezlebub9]

OK, went to one of the top secondary schools in Singapore 30 years ago. We were taught mind-mapping and the different thinking through processes for problem solving. What she says is both wrong historically and not just now. My criticisms of the current system is that the curricula are too both broad and deep.

[@simroysten7963]

I guess "head teacher" haven't heard of Singapore Math textbooks being snapped up around the world and the US.

[@elizabethkuruvilla830]

Huge thank you to Ms. Jennifer Mills for all her hard work and dedication to making Knightsbridge International School an amazing place to be! Your efforts haven't gone unnoticed!

[@soksoksg325]

Hi Max, I respect you when you interview expats etc and allow them to speak from their POV etc. But this interview is extremely biased and unfair. 1) This lady is speaking about her school, the international school way of teaching etc, fine. But the way this interview is framed, + yr question on “memorizing things” implies the unsaid, that sg schools mainly focus on rote learning, and are uncreative etc. That is simply untrue. That could be true for local schools in the 80s and 90s, but in 2024, it’s simply not true. I am a local school teacher for 20 years and whatever I went through and however I am teaching now is totally different etc. This is not a channel that focus on education and pedagogy, so if you have an education expert here sharing from her POV, unwittingly implying not so nice views of local schools, you have to admit it is rather one sided, isn’t it?

[@anchored555]

Her views on the SG education system being based on rote learning, memorisation and lack of critical thinking might have been valid 20 years ago, but they are outdated, and no longer square with the reality today ie SG education system has topped the world in Creative Thinking for the last 10 years.

[@soksoksg325]

You know when you speak to some people outside Singapore, they ask if Singapore is part of China etc. that’s a very outdated and ignorant view. It’s the same when people say Sg education is mainly rote learning and uncreative etc. outdated view from the 80s 90s, easily solvable by googling MOE website to take a look at what’s happening now but people all prefer to hold onto old experiences + stereotypes. Like how a simple google search shows u Singapore isn’t in China.

[@bigfisher4354]

@@soksoksg325 I wouldn't say she is implying "not so nice views of local schools", I would say she is offering an alternative to those parents in Singapore that may have disagreements with local schools. She's offering an alternative but I didn't get the impression that she was being disrespectful to local schools.

[@krollpeter]

My son is at a local school, I agree completely with Ms. Mills. At least for the 2 schools we know it exactly what she said.

[@lecherhao86]

@@soksoksg325 I absolutely agree with you sir. I feel that if the intention of the video is for Max to get some sponsorship, then he could have framed the questions in such manner that the lady could express the advantages that her school offers rather than making a comparison with the local school system. I am a parent of two. My daughter in primary school has gone beyond rote memorization. I have seen the activities created by her teachers for them to do critical thinking. I feel that the video is heavily biased and do not give credit to the wonderful effort that the local teachers have put in school. Unfortunately, Max could have done better with his questions.

[@kingbolo4579]

In my opinion, following Ms Mills' sincere recommendation to think outside the perceived elite of educational establishments with stock footage of a Cambridge college was not the most thought-through editorial choice.

[@ChauMingTan]

Wake up and grow up. How can a person in international school business will praise Singapore public school education system. You know it is good, good enough. She does not know and even she knows, she will not recognise. It will hurt her core interest.

[@immsspacecowboy]

Children flourish in different ways and while some work well creative ways of learning some just need that traditional method to get by. And honestly, i feel that most of the stress of the education system that the parents feel are self induced

[@nickinsin1]

She's speaking from a LaoWai perspective but Singapore students are one of the top in the world. So what we are doing is not wrong/

[@s2024_1]

I hope you would address the daylight robbery done by international schools in SG. Its a big profit making business. People pay upto $50k SGD annually for primary school education. This is totally insane.

[@YumchaGirl]

But it’s not costing the government. I am a big believer in school choice and if parents consider spending upwards of $50k, then that’s their prerogative.

[@s2024_1]

@@YumchaGirl That is true but you didn't get the real issue what I mentioned. Foreigners can only attend International schools (getting admission to local schools is very tough). We cannot choose a school which is on the other end of the island. Have to be close to where we live at least for the Primary years. Int Schools keep increasing fees every year and we cannot switch schools every year. We all have the right to education and education doesn't have to be so expensive. Again, are schools really providing the best education in spite of this fee - go to expats schools forum and you will understand better. An international school teacher once told me that they cant give enough attention to all kids as there are 25 kids in the class and they are over worked. Just imagine this after paying ~50k. If you have too much money, then nothing is a problem. It is a problem for those who work hard to send their kids to the so-called best school with their hard earned money. Many international schools here charge around 10k minimum just for getting an admission. Top tier charges double. What if the child is not happy at the school (or vice-versa), we have to switch again paying the same amount. Some schools are rejecting kids as they think they might not bring outstanding results to the school - is it fair? There are many more issues and I strongly believe CPE has to monitor such activities. That being said, I recently heard good reviews about KBH school house and stories of parents who moved kids from 50k schools to 14k school because the school is much better in terms of holistic education. First step would be to STOP application fee or make it one application fee for all Int schools. None of the schools guarantee a space and you can imagine the plight of parents waiting to hear from a school.

[@walteroggioni675]

​@@YumchaGirl most foreign parents don't have a choice as it's difficult for foreigners to be admitted into public schools

[@YumchaGirl]

@@walteroggioni675 But this school is not $50k.

[@4ngeIwing]

Why else would you think she's trying so hard to bash the local education system and promote her school? She sounds just like a salesperson. Local education system is definitely not perfect but it's among most successful around the world.

[@kingbolo4579]

She has a wonderful smile!

[@arieladelinechoo9845]

The differences between local school and international school are the mandatory syllabus by ministry of education and examination system. Local schools are more impactful and international school are more relax. They are available in the MOE website. Regarding whether the school is strict or not, it is every school principals that drives it. The best or top students are ALL from local school. Fact check.

[@wtprwswtp7972]

international schools also follow a set syllabus from accredited external curriculum like the CIE Checkpoint/iGCSE/GCE A levels or the IB PYP/MYP/IBDP programs besides their own country specific exams.

[@arieladelinechoo9845]

@@wtprwswtp7972 not all of them are of same standards... I manage international school and also familiar with local public school.

[@intrinsical]

I'm afraid she's misunderstood the Singaporean education system if she thinks its focused on rote memorization. Rather, the Singaporean system puts equal emphasis on memorization, understanding, adaptivity and creativity. We don't put memorization and creativity on different ends of the spectrum and simply value one over the other. Rather, each has its place in education.

[@intrinsical]

@@Idkidkdikdikdikdikdikw sounds like you're still salty about this after how many years?

[@paulr1125]

creativity is the future for any country , and Singapore is not renowned for that

[@matthew1333]

Great perspective, i guess there are pros and cons to every set of education system. But i am quite sure our education system is also evolving through out the years to improve on the innovation and creative part. So lets all embrace and learn from each other to make a more refine education system with fun and purpose

[@jcchong8238]

Agree. It is amazing to witness so much passive-aggressive reactions in this video though. There is a huge difference in getting an opinion across in a civil manner and doing it under the guise of "passion" that borders on being aggressive and in a restricted sense "abusive" at the same time.

[@anchored555]

Everyone is entitled to their own opinion, but there is a big difference between opinion and fact. What Mills said about our education system being based on rote learning, memorisation and lack of critical thinking is simply her own (baseless) OPINION. However, SG topping 64 other education systems in Creative Thinking in PISA, is a FACT. Which is more persuasive/credible? End of argument.😂

[@anchored555]

Frankly, many KZbinrs intentionally create controversial content just to increase clicks, views and comments, which will generate more revenue. That’s a fact too. 😂 And for some folks, some publicity (even if controversial) is better than no publicity haha. Another fact!😂

[@klaaym3n]

As a Singaporean living in the UK, I sent my daughter into the UK system. We are packing our bags when our newborn son is going into primary school. Western education system is shambles.

[@krollpeter]

Besides UK, do you know any other Western education system?

[@bigfisher4354]

The UK still has world class private schools but most UK state run schools are falling apart.

[@klaaym3n]

@@bigfisher4354 Agreed. Its a shame. We average Singaporeans always had a good impression of the British. It was a shock to the system when I first moved 4 years ago

[@bigfisher4354]

@@klaaym3n well the UK has always been a deeply divided country between the rich and poor , the working class and the upper class, the aristocracy and peasants. UK is home to some of the best schools in the world but is equally home to some of the worst. From an outside prospective, foreigners are only exposed to the best of British education (as this is what is sold throughout the world). It’s a very similar story in the US. Singapore thankfully doesn’t struggle with this problem.

[@klaaym3n]

@@bigfisher4354 100%. luckily my daughter goes to good reputation neighbourh school. even then there are scraps every now and then. if the current riots are getting worst, then we are coming back home.

[@edgyguy8240]

9:43 Remembering facts and dates and etc, doesn't necessarily translate to helping you later in life. It's not the things you remember, but the ability to remember, that helps you later in life. It's like lifting weights. Learning how to lift weights properly and safely, as compared to actually lifting the weights, will not help you form your muscles. Now, apply that to mental muscles. I would say a good balance of rote learning and creative learning would be the ultimate way of learning. This sounds like a beat-down of the local education system, and a promotion of what she has to offer in her school. Oh well...

[@jannahhahn9549]

For that kind of fee per year, I do expect a science lab and music room...or even a hall LOL

[@anchored555]

Infomercial

[@electricdreams1967]

Nice packaging, sweeping statements, idealistic plots - would suggest one get in touch with the current system; not one which sounded like 15 years ago.

[@RaisJohariMohamed]

I’ve experienced both the Spore educational system and the Australian system having served managing schools in Spore and for a short stint of time in Australia. During the time I served in a private school in Australia a former Singaporean during a conversation expressed his happiness that his child scored 70% in Maths of which the child had never attained 30% when in Spore. It’s the choice you want in shaping the future of your child really.

[@wtprwswtp7972]

either the test was just too simple or that he found his way finally.....🤣

[@OudPlayerHBY]

Singapore overall has done a tremendous job to elevate the education level of its population, it still has some work to do to create an Elite. That is it I believe. I also think that any third world country should take the Singaporean education system and copy the shit out of it with no questions asked.

[@Lurker1984]

Agree with her criticism on strictness, over zealous tuition and parents. However, I disagree with her mention on the emphasis on rote learning. As an example, Singapore Style Math places more emphasis on conceptual understanding than just procedures. In fact if you compare the Singapore math curriculum to other western math curriculum, there is less emphasis on memorization and rote learning, more on problem solving.

[@anneeli3089]

Perhaps we should first agree on what are some measurable outcome of a country's good education system over a period of say 20 to 25 years? Ratio of GDP against education budget? Average wage, credit score, suicide rates, mortality rate, happiness index, crime rate? I mean afterall, the product of the education system of each country is the students who eventually become adults, right? Does a less stressful educational environment that allows self-discovery and exploration lead to better well-adjusted adults, a more cohesive society, lower crime rates, more peaceful country?

[@oldtabrough1026]

Our education system is slowly moving away from rote learning and memorisation method of study. By the way, our students came out top in the PIsa Creative thinking ranking.

[@kayflip2233]

Congrats on 200k Max. 5x more for the gold youtuber plaque, let's go.

[@kumlai7467]

But Australia education fails so badly

[@s.7980]

Indeed!

[@janetliang908]

Keep it up for both of you . ❤❤❤🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@markshen3280]

In any country in Asia, students don’t question teachers. Teachers are to be respected as authorities. Despite the rote learning system in most Asian schools, this is the education culture. That is how Asians excel, particularly and partly due to parental expectations.

[@obscurifyed]

In Singapore not really

[@leenathayil2039]

not true in Singapore, maybe for other Asian countries.

[@gavinlew8273]

Her: I feel sorry for the kids. 😩 Parents: We feel sorry for the teachers 😗

[@user-fb7rf4kr5k]

Singspore has moved on from rote learning a long time ago. Mills is ill-informed about the local education system, but to be fair, she needs to make money for her school.

[@deliayang5217]

It’s because the moe system examinations test practical and creative questions so much and set it at a level that it’s unattainable for the average students that it’s so stressful and difficult to get a good mark for them. It’s really an unfair statement to said that we rely on route learning

[@joedaw3003]

She has valuable insights! An empathetic educator who values freedom of inquiry in all areas. Observant of biases through her personal experiences. She acknowledges the respected Singapore system as well. Thank you for this.

[@YumchaGirl]

Agree entirely.

[@FT-od4xv]

Far from it

[@Smart_Tamaha]

Singaporean education system is similar to Sri Lankan education system and both are based on British education system. Singaporean parents think like Sri Lankan parents. British council grant scholarships to students who obtain good grades in Sri Lankan GCE(A/L) to study at Oxford and Cambridge and other London Universities such as London Imperial College of Science and Technology. Talking of English language requirement, grade C in English language in GCE(O/L) is only needed. Sri Lankan GCE(O/L) and GCE(A/L) are well recognized in the UK because they are equal to London GCE(O/L) and (A/L). I went to University College London with Sri Lankan GCE(A/L) grades and did my Bachelor degree in Computer Science in the 90s.

[@krappola1]

I think she does not have enough conversation with most parents from the secondary schools. While yes, many parents wants their kids to go to tuition center etc, a lot of parents actually do not do that either. She only hears conversation from probably "atas" or scared to lose parents. A lot of my cousins and friends do not have their kids for tuition. The way she says, after schools they have clubs etc. My critical thinking and many of my soft skills are "learned" from being in cadet and boy scouts and later student councillors. People who view our education system looks only when the students go to school during school hours, but really i see so many students have the freedom to grow after classroom. This interview is so different compared to the scientist that Max interview that send their kids to public school.

[@jcchong8238]

@@MAJOYDACIA You are equally guilty with all the assumptions made. Anyway if you are so unhappy, don't watch in the future. There are many ways to skin a cat, you just happen to use the most cruel of methods.

[@lecherhao86]

Max, I don't quite understand the intention behind your video. I respect the lady's opinion for her school's teaching philosophy and whatnot. But I feel that she shouldn't comment too much on the local school as she has rightfully admitted that she doesn't know much at all. Max, you aren't even an educator and you have no knowledge of our local system. And here you are trying to force the lady who doesn't teach in local schools to come up with differences between local and international schools. I feel this video is heavily biased.

[@clementihammock7572]

Nowadays, one can't tell whether a true educator from a reap profit business figure. Market will somehow adjust as some made it, some don't. Let's see whether they set foot here for so-called noble purposes. 😂

[@willytan9715]

Marketing again

[@write2mel]

Hello Max, thank you for sharing the video and Ms Jennifer Mills is very lovely. To both of you, thank you for your time and thoughts.

[@supersmart671]

She is so right in how there is a pressure in the Asian sub continent to perform and conform to the expectations of parents....watch 3 idiots 😢😢😢😢😢😢

[@ylzaf77]

0:40 What? She said celebrating festivals of different faith and religion is unique to Singapore and cannot be found in any other countries in the world? only 2 public holidays per year? Obviously she does not know anything about Singapore's neighbouring country up north.

[@chemfunman]

Thank you to Jennifer Mills for sharing your leadership lessons. This is bona fide - a genuine analysis from an experienced educator. Kudos to Max for always picking the interviewees who speak their minds. You are doing great for our community. As a Singaporean educator, I appreciate all the hard work that you are doing. Thank you.

[@huggybear441]

I like her outlook about being cultural sensitive till she says Singapore education systems is *outdated* in comparing to her apparently "only all funs" at school

[@etheltan170]

My friend's children went international schools in Indonesia n Australia. Funny thing is they did very well in Indonesia n Australia but badly in Singapore local school system. But today, my children that went thru the local system is doing well in life I would say, n his children, now grown up, couldn't hold down a job cos they do not want to work. I think it's wring to think that singapore system is all about memorizing. She obviously do not know our system well.

[@i_am_elle_gee6917]

Has she tried crossing over to Johor? Whatever Singapore celebrates is also celebrated in Malaysia.

[@hawthorn2227]

I am not a child anymore but I am very inspired by Jennifer! Well done on continuous evaluating on all aspects in the school. Singapore is fortunate to have you!

[@perfectvita]

REDUCE CLASS SIZES. Many people have feedback to Singapore MOE that teachers can't do that in a classroom of 31-40. The class size in international sch is half that, so of course students can talk. In class of 40, it is noisy if 30 to 40 *talk!*

[@leonleong9863]

I agree the CCA can be way overbearing at times, and that aside, our academic education is intact and evolving well over the years, encouraging good critical thinking skill development.

[@Ccb88888]

I completely agree with what Ms. Mills says here. Having gone through the local Singapore education system myself, and looking at how my cousin's kids are going through it right now- there is still a heavy element of rote-learning (perhaps less than 20-30 years ago but still far too much), far too much focus on exams and grades, and hardly any focus on innovation, questioning authority/established ideas, social skills, presenting ideas etc. What's more, despite the many hours learning English and Mandarin, Singaporean children's spoken English is worse than for e.g. Dutch or Scandinavian children (who spend less time learning English). Furthermore their command of Mandarin is atrocious, especially considering the amount of time spent studying it.

[@lemonrand1]

it's the world that has become less respectful of one another.. more divisive

[@luiluiluilui888]

Max please take this interview down. Don't interview anyone with no clue on anything.

[@royramroop7222]

Trinidad and Tobago also have religious holidays for all the major religion i.e. Hindu, Muslim, Catholic etc , incorrect to say Singapore is the only country to have such ..

[@FT-od4xv]

I am a supporter and I love most of your video however I have to give a thumbs down to this one. I was a student in the 90's and I have kids in Pri and Sec school now and its not all that she says anymore. Her perception are outdated, this is one interviewee that i felt her discrimination towards our local system, school, students and parent. Overall sounds like an advert for her school.

[@YumchaGirl]

Lovely interview and if I were not homeschooling, I’d be signing my daughter up! One quote that stood out is that cream always rises to the top. We can hothouse all we like but the good students, the ones naturally talented will succeed no matter the system. Interestingly, I once spoke with a former MOE teacher who moved to Australia. He said if your child is naturally gifted and is a self starter, then the Australian system is good. If your child needs more encouragement and/or you don’t want to leave it to the gods (I’m taking liberty with the paraphrasing here), then the Singaporean system is the best. Having been educated in the Australian system, I concur.

[@jenjo7839]

singapore has the top educational system.

[@felinelim3425]

We are Asians not Bsians😅

[@jenjo7839]

I was awarded honors in history at 17yrs old by ur british royals under the guidance/teachings by Rosyth schl teachers(gifted schl programe in english) n welfare taken good care by our grandmother.rosyth schl teachers r my aunties too.will show u my schl results.

[@thgwee]

That’s an outdated view of Sg education system. Sg system now puts a lot of emphasis on critical thinking. Our math curriculum is a good example.

[@jenjo7839]

also,no stress at all.playin al the time..😊

[@contactkelvinsim]

Some learning require a fair amount of discipline and practice AND rote learning. An artist will never be able to express his creativity if he doesnt sit down to hone his craft. Questioning teachers endlessly is a western teaching concept that is overrated. Students end up getting nothing done, let alone pick up a skill. Students should be taught to listen first. Hone the skill your teacher is imparting to you. Innovate a better way, if you can, AFTER you mastered what your teacher taught you. Not BEFORE. I certainly know from having attended Australian schools that the students in class like to question the teacher endlessly, "trying to innovate' a better way to solve Maths questions but somehow still don't do as well in the tests.

[@joelle4471]

glad she understand how other feel...

[@papi8659]

Good Friday isn’t a public holiday in lots of Christian countries , Ireland , Italy etc … the vast majority of the worlds Christian’s work on Good Friday without making an issue about it.

[@susigorges7035]

❤this Teacher

[@nattapongchatchai610]

Not only unique in Singapore. It's like that in Malaysia too.

[@Mari_Selalu_Berbuat_Kebaikan]

Let's always do alot of good ❤ Nam myoho renge kyo

[@sueteh4759]

Do you know Malaysia has public holidays for Muslim Hari Raya and other religious date, Indians has holiday for Thaipusam, Deepavali, Chinese has Chinese New Year holiday, Buddhists has holiday Vesak Day, Christmas Day and New Year also holidays here. What you mean only Singapore eh???

[@YumchaGirl]

That’s marvellous and if the very nice principal is reading these comments, I’m sure she’ll be most grateful you’ve pointed it out so graciously.

[@gh8066]

Mills has some incredible insights into the education system

[@KarinaAngelika]

Hi Max, i resonate a lot with what Jennifer said about singapore children and feel sorry for them. Its tough to be children here in Singapore. I really wish to meet Jennifer and discuss more about Singapore education, since i am a teacher and im new here! Would love if you can connect us! Tried to check her linkedin but cant send her message! Thank you!

[@tikiewel]

Why only Cambridge university issue O level A level certificate?

[@Diderot68]

Her view and understanding of local schools is so outdated. There is no way my daughter can memorise all the stuff that she has been taught in her school. Australia can continue with the way she teaches her kids. My good friend Education Minister Chan will crack his head, innovate and continue to seek better ways to teach our own kids.

[@coolrb4506]

A lot of parents want to be happy rather than have their children be happy, and it has been like this since 30 years ago.😢

[@JosephDAVIS-u8o]

Fact Check: She's not correct. I work at an International School in Malaysia and here we celebrate 3 types of holidays: Muslims, Chinese, and Indian (plus major Christian holidays).

[@cocosilkworm]

Listen to Katharine Birbalsingh, described by many as ‘Britain’s’ strictest teacher’. Birbalsingh’s passion for high-quality education provides for insightful and challenging perspectives on the state of our current school system and what can be done to improve it. Katharine Birbalsingh is the Chair of the Social Mobility Commission and Headmistress and co-founder of Michaela Community School in Wembley, London. Michaela is known for its tough-love behaviour systems, knowledge curriculum and teaching of kindness and gratitude. kzbin.info/www/bejne/qH6ogIuufN6jgc0 "The Virtue of Traditional Education | Katharine Birbalsingh"

[@biot_travel]

we need her back in the Australian education system - now run by egos, excel spreadsheets and woke. they charge less per child then what international students have to pay in a government P-12 school.

[@lemontree9787]

I guess she must have lived in China quite a few years ago. With apps and technology, passengers don’t need to communicate with drivers about destinations. Everything is digital now. Same as in Singapore.

[@choonhockong8215]

If Singapore education system were to follow the Western liberal system Singapore would be in trouble, adopt chaotic Western democracy and not producing enough STEM professionals. China is an example, producing millions of STEM professionals and are now leading the world in AI, and producing technopreneurs to grow a new rising economy.

[@krollpeter]

So why are Chinese only really thriving when outside China? For example, how many Chinese living in China won Science prices such as Nobel?

[@jcliswong]

It is cruel to put any child in the Chinese education system. Worse than Singapore, because much more rote-learning. It is dangerous to encourage any student to think critically because of the totalitarian political system. Agree with krollpeter that Chinese students thrive better outside of China than in China.

[@anchored555]

I’m not too sure about that. Talk to Chinese people and many say that in recent years, it’s the smartest students who remain in China for university and the less able ones who go overseas (if they can afford it). China produces the most STEM graduates and that probably explains why they currently lead the world in cutting edge technology like EVs, AI, electric batteries, drones, 5G/6G, semiconductor chips, etc, to the extent that the West feels threatened. Yes, their education system is high pressured, but in fairness, surely such cutting edge innovation and breakthroughs in high tech fields indicate they are getting something right in their education system.

[@janetliang908]

Good interview!

[@ongtayjoojames-ow1bs]

It's abt time, someone realise it...!!!🙄😬😐

[@tonysworld1312]

Malaysia is a great country with multicultural as well

[@jonathanstupidcheesespaghetti]

Teacher's view of Singapore's *International* education

[@anchored555]

No, she was comparing education in our local schools (rote learning, memorisation and lack of critical thinking) with that in international schools (where they encourage critical and creative thinking). Except that her criticism of SG education system on those grounds is outdated and no longer valid.

[@griffinina]

They are smart. Utilising already available external facilities. As long as all everything is delivered as promised, parents & students wpuld not mind even if it is were using external facilities. Actually, going outside could be fun for the children than being cooped up in the school all the time.

[@Idkidkdikdikdikdikdikw]

I went there trust me it’s horrible not having any facilities

[@avanishmishra4768]

Despite the investment, Singapore does not have a major scientific achievement in tech, science or art? It is as if creativity is extinguished somewhere along the way.

[@Callsign-Blade_RunnerSG]

Because nobody dares to experience and experiment with different things in life. The moment one is different, the authorities under this government will step in with RESTRICTIONS and punishments to so called “correct” them…

[@jer2911.L]

@@Callsign-Blade_RunnerSG Its not true that nobody dares to experiment. Its just that the neccessity to earn a living and take care of the family (if you have one) takes precedent. You can see many young people start a buisness, fail and start again. The Govt will not step in when you are different, unless it is against the law. Restrictions like consuming drugs are usually put in place because it is unlawful.

[@TiredBush]

Argument from authority, ironically proving the opposition's point. Hilarious. The premise is not whether it is lawful or not with the current regulations, but whether it is the way things should be to encourage creativity. Reading comprehension people

[@quietsundaymorning]

Learned so much from this beautiful lady.. thanks for the content😊

[@AVGN-w2s]

many major foreign investments keep flowing into it. which means many wealthy people with high expectations abound. which in turn makes local wealthy people want to keep up with them. but at the cost of their young. is that ok ?

[@irenekoh7806]

She is not accurate about the local educational system at all.

[@Ennnn.jenn.]

But tbh without the education system, i actually wont learn shit in sch man 😂like i actually won't learn much without strict education system 😂 the only thing i dun understand is dressing n attire

[@OudPlayerHBY]

Friday is actually a weekend in the middle east I doubt she had to teach on good friday there

[@impopquiz]

Not all. Some are half days. 😅