[Bukit Merah] Primary Schools

Reply to [Bukit Merah] Primary Schools on Fri, 28 Feb 2025 03:32:11 GMT

s88ss — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 03:32:11 GMT

Hi! We are currently PR and need to move in 2 months. Within 1 km are Alexandra (I think no chance), Gan Eng Seng and Zhangde. Any thoughts on Gan Eng Seng and Zhangde? My neighbor said Gan Eng Seng is gangster school XD and my toddler son is quite rebellious and stubborn lol. And also, thoughts about moving to somewhere else like Queenstown?

FYI 2km from here are Queenstown, Radin Mas, River Valley.

Reply to [Bukit Merah] Primary Schools on Wed, 21 Sep 2022 02:53:52 GMT

CM8668 — Wed, 21 Sep 2022 02:53:52 GMT

if your concern is mainly academic, there are many good enrichment centres that you can send your child to. some centres are very \"advance\" in the coverage of curriculum. The main thing i believe is for our child to be happy learning and has confidence in his/her learning ability and not feel discouraged.

Gratefulmumof3boys\" post_id=\"2080744\" time=\"1662080675\" user_id=\"191699:
Hi!
Is there any parents who successfully changed their child's school for P3?
What's the comparison between ALPS and ZPS? I'm thinking of changing his school (if we have a chance) as his current school is just teaching the basics and not much drilling and practice is given to him. He's doing very well now but I'm worried whether this wouldn't be enough for his future exams. He's usually soft spoken and is also complaining of many children being rougher. He has a good rapport with his teachers too. I'm at a loss as to what to do.
Make him stay at the same school (but later if it affects his PSLE, then?) his siblings will be following him too and will be subject to the same environment or should I try changing and give him a chance of a better learning environment? Provided we have a chance that is.
How's the waiting list for ALPS like? Would we stand a chance? Also, what must I put for \"reason for transfer\"?
I'm confused and would grateful for any replies. Thank you.

Reply to [Bukit Merah] Primary Schools on Tue, 20 Sep 2022 14:21:44 GMT

Ninepizza — Tue, 20 Sep 2022 14:21:44 GMT

Gratefulmumof3boys\" post_id=\"2080744\" time=\"1662080675\" user_id=\"191699:

Hi!
Is there any parents who successfully changed their child's school for P3?
What's the comparison between ALPS and ZPS? I'm thinking of changing his school (if we have a chance) as his current school is just teaching the basics and not much drilling and practice is given to him. He's doing very well now but I'm worried whether this wouldn't be enough for his future exams. He's usually soft spoken and is also complaining of many children being rougher. He has a good rapport with his teachers too. I'm at a loss as to what to do.
Make him stay at the same school (but later if it affects his PSLE, then?) his siblings will be following him too and will be subject to the same environment or should I try changing and give him a chance of a better learning environment? Provided we have a chance that is.
How's the waiting list for ALPS like? Would we stand a chance? Also, what must I put for \"reason for transfer\"?
I'm confused and would grateful for any replies. Thank you.

Do you mind letting know which school is he in? Pls pm if not convenient. :thankyou:

Reply to [Bukit Merah] Primary Schools on Fri, 02 Sep 2022 06:23:03 GMT

ChiefKiasu — Fri, 02 Sep 2022 06:23:03 GMT

Gratefulmumof3boys\" post_id=\"2080744\" time=\"1662080675\" user_id=\"191699:

Hi!
Is there any parents who successfully changed their child's school for P3?
What's the comparison between ALPS and ZPS? I'm thinking of changing his school (if we have a chance) as his current school is just teaching the basics and not much drilling and practice is given to him. He's doing very well now but I'm worried whether this wouldn't be enough for his future exams. He's usually soft spoken and is also complaining of many children being rougher. He has a good rapport with his teachers too. I'm at a loss as to what to do.
Make him stay at the same school (but later if it affects his PSLE, then?) his siblings will be following him too and will be subject to the same environment or should I try changing and give him a chance of a better learning environment? Provided we have a chance that is.
How's the waiting list for ALPS like? Would we stand a chance? Also, what must I put for \"reason for transfer\"?
I'm confused and would grateful for any replies. Thank you.

Changing schools midway through the school is never a good idea, and it seems you are doing it mainly because you feel that the current school is not doing enough. But different people have different ways of measuring \"enough\". If you change to a brand name school like Nanyang Primary, you may complain that the school is doing too much and it is very difficult for your son to keep up with the rest of the class.

Personally, I would prefer a school that goes light on the student (he is in Primary 3 after all). It will give me the opportunity to try out various other things he might be interested in, eg. sports like fencing, taekwondo, swimming, etc. Or more academic like math olympiads, debating, or computing. These are things will serve to cultivate a more worldly awareness in your child that studying is not only based on the 4 subjects and 2 languages he is used to, that there is much more things out there in the world than he has experienced so far.

Reply to [Bukit Merah] Primary Schools on Fri, 02 Sep 2022 01:04:35 GMT

Gratefulmumof3boys — Fri, 02 Sep 2022 01:04:35 GMT

Hi!

Is there any parents who successfully changed their child’s school for P3?
What’s the comparison between ALPS and ZPS? I’m thinking of changing his school (if we have a chance) as his current school is just teaching the basics and not much drilling and practice is given to him. He’s doing very well now but I’m worried whether this wouldn’t be enough for his future exams. He’s usually soft spoken and is also complaining of many children being rougher. He has a good rapport with his teachers too. I’m at a loss as to what to do.
Make him stay at the same school (but later if it affects his PSLE, then?) his siblings will be following him too and will be subject to the same environment or should I try changing and give him a chance of a better learning environment? Provided we have a chance that is.
How’s the waiting list for ALPS like? Would we stand a chance? Also, what must I put for "reason for transfer"?
I’m confused and would grateful for any replies. Thank you.

Reply to [Bukit Merah] Primary Schools on Wed, 19 Jan 2022 08:39:30 GMT

qms — Wed, 19 Jan 2022 08:39:30 GMT

erencie\" post_id=\"2056236\" time=\"1642561650\" user_id=\"173505:

In terms of public transportation, CHIJ is harder for us to reach as compared to RMPS. If I go for CHIJ, I may end up having to drive my daughter to school every morning or need school bus (not sure if the school bus's route is winding or not). For RMPS, there is a almost-door-to-door direct bus route for us and is much more convenient if I were to let my daughters take bus themselves.

Actually, CHIJ Kellock is just a short walk away from RMPS. So, you can effectively take the \"almost-door-to-door direct bus route\" to RMPS and then walk across to Kellock.

Reply to [Bukit Merah] Primary Schools on Wed, 19 Jan 2022 07:03:41 GMT

zac's mum — Wed, 19 Jan 2022 07:03:41 GMT

Jumping in with my opinion (I have no insight on CHIJ Kellock but I do have friends with kids in RMPS):

Your girls being soft-spoken and quiet type of kids, better to put in all-girls school. In co-ed primary they would have to deal with rowdy and cheeky boys. The teachers can only scold & warn but some kids may not change their behaviour.

Consider the power of affiliation. The new AL system for PSLE is harsh, especially if students are lopsided in the 4 subjects. MTL is a common weakness that pulls down the whole score.

The affiliation cut off point to CHIJ St Theresa’s Convent is around 20 for Express stream (formerly 200 under T score system). The school also has NA stream (COP 25) and NT stream (COP 28). No matter what academic ability your girls end up having (probably too early to tell now), they will very likely have a seat waiting for them at the affiliated secondary.

Contrast that with if u enrol them to RMPS, for them to enter a good all-girls secondary school in the West, they’d have to score much better (~13 points) in order to qualify. If score ~20 there’s only neighborhood co-ed schools with rowdy boys as schoolmates. Not ideal for your precious girls.

Reply to [Bukit Merah] Primary Schools on Wed, 19 Jan 2022 06:29:08 GMT

erencie — Wed, 19 Jan 2022 06:29:08 GMT

ChiefKiasu\" post_id=\"2056253\" time=\"1642564161\" user_id=\"3:

It sounds like you have already made up your mind that RMPS is the school for your kids
It's a good school. Go for it.

Hmmm, nope I have not made up my mind. Still wishing to hear more about both CHIJ and RMPS from parents here

To be frank, if CHIJ is a more suitable choice for my daughters I don't mind the slight transportation inconvenience, as compared to that of RMPS. I've currently already been driving to my work everyday so possibly just shift my work schedule to primary school schedule will also work.

Reply to [Bukit Merah] Primary Schools on Wed, 19 Jan 2022 03:49:21 GMT

ChiefKiasu — Wed, 19 Jan 2022 03:49:21 GMT

erencie\" post_id=\"2056236\" time=\"1642561650\" user_id=\"173505:

CHIJ (Kellock) VS. Radin Mas

Hello parents, I'm looking for some advice here comparing these two schools in Bukit Merah. Academic stress level and achievements, CCA offerings, opportunities, school culture and atmosphere etc...

I have a very good chance of balloting in 2B phase and am 1km SC to both schools. So I'm not worried about balloting chance to either of the schools.

I have two daughters and no sons. One of my daughter has a love for Chinese, arts and dance; my another daughter has an interest in Maths and fixing (or breaking ) technical gears. Both are soft-spoken and quiet type kids.

In terms of public transportation, CHIJ is harder for us to reach as compared to RMPS. If I go for CHIJ, I may end up having to drive my daughter to school every morning or need school bus (not sure if the school bus's route is winding or not). For RMPS, there is a almost-door-to-door direct bus route for us and is much more convenient if I were to let my daughters take bus themselves.

It sounds like you have already made up your mind that RMPS is the school for your kids
It's a good school. Go for it.

Reply to [Bukit Merah] Primary Schools on Wed, 19 Jan 2022 03:07:30 GMT

erencie — Wed, 19 Jan 2022 03:07:30 GMT

CHIJ (Kellock) VS. Radin Mas

Hello parents, I'm looking for some advice here comparing these two schools in Bukit Merah. Academic stress level and achievements, CCA offerings, opportunities, school culture and atmosphere etc...

I have a very good chance of balloting in 2B phase and am 1km SC to both schools. So I'm not worried about balloting chance to either of the schools.

I have two daughters and no sons. One of my daughter has a love for Chinese, arts and dance; my another daughter has an interest in Maths and fixing (or breaking ) technical gears. Both are soft-spoken and quiet type kids.

In terms of public transportation, CHIJ is harder for us to reach as compared to RMPS. If I go for CHIJ, I may end up having to drive my daughter to school every morning or need school bus (not sure if the school bus's route is winding or not). For RMPS, there is a almost-door-to-door direct bus route for us and is much more convenient if I were to let my daughters take bus themselves.

Reply to [Bukit Merah] Primary Schools on Mon, 23 Nov 2020 04:51:43 GMT

hanhui — Mon, 23 Nov 2020 04:51:43 GMT

As my kids have graduated from Cantonment Primary, let me just share my sentiments & personal experienced about this school. CPS is a low profile school , but it is indeed a good neighbourhood school in the Cantonment vicinity, has a good Principal with great leadership, and caring teachers. My boy graduated in Yr 2014 & gal will be receiving her PSLE result this Wed:). I have to admit that the curriculum lessons are well planned, not too much stress for both parents & kids - having both academic and holistic education.

Mrs Manoka & her team of teachers are commendable in their dedication for pupils’ welfare too. E.g, Both Mrs Manoka & the teachers will usher the children with umbrellas at the waiting area during rainy days, and never fails to encouraged or give good morale support and kind advice to their pupils when in low mood (happened to my gal). They are professional and show great dedication and passion in their job. I’ve always been able to reached out to the teachers when I need to talk about my kids or when I’ve any queries pertaining to the school info, the Vice Principal will revert to me almost immediately . Both Mrs Manoka & the teachers have certainly impressed me with their professionalism and their love for their kids under their charge. Thank you Cantonment Primary:)

Reply to [Bukit Merah] Primary Schools on Sun, 22 Nov 2020 17:08:04 GMT

msrajey — Sun, 22 Nov 2020 17:08:04 GMT

Hi any idea on ALPS with the new change in principal?

Reply to [Bukit Merah] Primary Schools on Sat, 22 Aug 2020 16:34:46 GMT

Lexy — Sat, 22 Aug 2020 16:34:46 GMT

SolarPower\" post_id=\"1992305\" time=\"1598107980\" user_id=\"188039:

oh I hope is not Cantonment. I applied Cantonment SC <2km. I was also quite doubtful with his statement about GES , not sure of the source, probably 道听途说。but he probably also resourseful as he knew Cantonment has no Halal food stall but GES has. So just posting here to get opinion how likely this can happen. I did my analysis that Cantonment should be safe for 2km as estate 1km nearby Cantonment would not have appplied the other 3 popular schools (RM, RV, AL) in 2C as they likely > 2km, no reason for them to risk to ballot with those <1km and already got in 2C. so the 2CS should have very little SC< 1km from Cantonment. Hope for the best.

Most probably both school will not be over subscribed at 2C.
If MOE had not increased 60 intake this year for cantonment, they should be heading for balloting, it look very secured for you esp that you are within 2km.
GES increased 30 intake this year, unlikely the hearsay will turn out a reality.

Reply to [Bukit Merah] Primary Schools on Sat, 22 Aug 2020 14:53:00 GMT

SolarPower — Sat, 22 Aug 2020 14:53:00 GMT

oh I hope is not Cantonment. I applied Cantonment SC <2km. I was also quite doubtful with his statement about GES , not sure of the source, probably 道听途说。but he probably also resourseful as he knew Cantonment has no Halal food stall but GES has. So just posting here to get opinion how likely this can happen. I did my analysis that Cantonment should be safe for 2km as estate 1km nearby Cantonment would not have appplied the other 3 popular schools (RM, RV, AL) in 2C as they likely > 2km, no reason for them to risk to ballot with those <1km and already got in 2C. so the 2CS should have very little SC< 1km from Cantonment. Hope for the best.

Reply to [Bukit Merah] Primary Schools on Sat, 22 Aug 2020 13:38:35 GMT

lot286 — Sat, 22 Aug 2020 13:38:35 GMT

If GES has zero places for 2Cs, then that will be truly surprising. Unless applicants from outside bukit Merah started to target the school (which i think is highly unlikely), i see no reason of this happening. GES also increased its vacancies by +30 versus last year i think.

Perhaps OP is referring to Cantonment instead of GES?
…which i believe is viewed as a rising star within the Bkt Merah region…

Reply to [Bukit Merah] Primary Schools on Sat, 22 Aug 2020 13:26:03 GMT

Davischew — Sat, 22 Aug 2020 13:26:03 GMT

SolarPower\" post_id=\"1992295\" time=\"1598101266\" user_id=\"188039:

Heard from a friend today that Gan Eng Seng have 3 applicants more than 2Cs vacancies this year. Probably first time in the past 10 years GES history to enter ballot if the news is true.
GES used to have at least 30 seats even for Phase 3. Wonder where are the excess applicants from because the total rejects in Bukit Merah from 2C from the 3 popular schools are not more than 130.

MOE updated on 20-Aug is 41 applicants vs 107 vacancies. I don’t see there will be a surge on the last day. Let’s see the next update on 26-Aug

Reply to [Bukit Merah] Primary Schools on Sat, 22 Aug 2020 13:01:06 GMT

SolarPower — Sat, 22 Aug 2020 13:01:06 GMT

Heard from a friend today that Gan Eng Seng have 3 applicants more than 2Cs vacancies this year. Probably first time in the past 10 years GES history to enter ballot if the news is true.

GES used to have at least 30 seats even for Phase 3. Wonder where are the excess applicants from because the total rejects in Bukit Merah from 2C from the 3 popular schools are not more than 130.

Reply to [Bukit Merah] Primary Schools on Wed, 05 Aug 2020 12:54:36 GMT

Stylomum — Wed, 05 Aug 2020 12:54:36 GMT

CHIJ Kellock is safe for SC within 2C but might not be 100% for PR.

Reply to [Bukit Merah] Primary Schools on Wed, 05 Aug 2020 01:08:36 GMT

glitterpen — Wed, 05 Aug 2020 01:08:36 GMT

That’s true, though we’re actually moving out of Bt Merah (I shouldn’t be posting in this thread, sorry!) and the new school is not affiliated. But it is a guaranteed seat. I agree that CHIJ Kellock is safe for everyone in 2C; if I didn’t have a girl and a boy I might be tempted to apply to it for the affiliation benefit, if there are still affiliation benefits after the AL system kicks in.

Reply to [Bukit Merah] Primary Schools on Wed, 05 Aug 2020 01:07:49 GMT

zac's mum — Wed, 05 Aug 2020 01:07:49 GMT

floppy\" post_id=\"1989330\" time=\"1596588693\" user_id=\"97579:

Err...
CHIJ Kellock you probably don’t even have to move to secure a place

Ok...but why not move? Walk to school...plus Great Southern Waterfront living beckons enticingly...

Reply to [Bukit Merah] Primary Schools on Wed, 05 Aug 2020 00:51:33 GMT

floppy — Wed, 05 Aug 2020 00:51:33 GMT

Err…

CHIJ Kellock you probably don’t even have to move to secure a place

Reply to [Bukit Merah] Primary Schools on Tue, 04 Aug 2020 22:14:50 GMT

zac's mum — Tue, 04 Aug 2020 22:14:50 GMT

glitterpen\" post_id=\"1989287\" time=\"1596552871\" user_id=\"187525:

Thanks! We've more or less made up our minds (based on school culture/environment, hearsay and optimism), but this involves moving next year in time for registration, which is going to be super troublesome, and I'm still not entirely sure the move is worth it.

If u are moving for a guaranteed seat, it will be worth it. If ure talking about CHIJ Kellock, since it has affiliation, it’s a good deal.

HOWEVER, u are blessed to be registering next year. U can wait till next year’s news as MOE is expected to announce the new affiliation changes under the AL system. Take a closer look after the announcement to see if the affiliation benefit (expected cut to the benefit) is worth the move.

Reply to [Bukit Merah] Primary Schools on Tue, 04 Aug 2020 14:54:31 GMT

glitterpen — Tue, 04 Aug 2020 14:54:31 GMT

Thanks! We’ve more or less made up our minds (based on school culture/environment, hearsay and optimism), but this involves moving next year in time for registration, which is going to be super troublesome, and I’m still not entirely sure the move is worth it.

Reply to [Bukit Merah] Primary Schools on Tue, 04 Aug 2020 14:00:01 GMT

Lexy — Tue, 04 Aug 2020 14:00:01 GMT

glitterpen\" post_id=\"1989271\" time=\"1596549413\" user_id=\"187525:

Tiongbahrumum\" post_id=\"1989266\" time=\"1596548308\" user_id=\"143725:
[quote=ngiumz post_id=1989185 time=1596518641 user_id=187466]Hi,
Seeking further feedback on the following schools:
CPS, CHIJ and ZDPS.

How's the experience like so far?
If you are choosing between CPS, CHIJ kellock and ZDPS, obvious choice is CHIJ Kellock for the affiliation. As parents, we tend to over estimate our kids. We don't know when the new AL banding comes in, what are the changes for affiliation, but for now, I will definitely go for it. I think the \"experience\" is secondary imho

Man this is a little too close to home for me (as I think and rethink my primary school choices for registration next year).[/quote]look at culture, the affiliation and how well your kid can blend with the environment. Start thinking and looking now rather than last min job.