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Gan Eng Seng School: A Comprehensive Guide for Parents

Choosing the right secondary school after the PSLE is a pivotal moment for parents and students alike. You?re looking for a place that balances academic rigor with opportunities for personal growth, preparing your child for both exams and life beyond. Gan Eng Seng School, a respected name among Singapore?s top secondary schools in 2025, stands out for its commitment to holistic education, fostering both intellectual and character development. In this guide, we?ll walk you through everything you need to know about Gan Eng Seng School, from admissions to curriculum, extracurriculars, and why mathematics is a cornerstone of its academic offerings. Whether you?re researching Gan Eng Seng School PSLE cut-off 2025 or seeking a secondary school admission guide, this article offers practical insights to ease your decision-making.

School Overview

Founded in 1885, Gan Eng Seng School is one of Singapore?s oldest and most established government co-educational schools. Named after its founder, a prominent philanthropist, the school embodies its motto, ?Onward,? emphasizing resilience and progress. Located in Bukit Merah, this single-session school is known for its inclusive and supportive environment, catering to a diverse student body.

Gan Eng Seng School distinguishes itself with its Applied Learning Programme (ALP), GESS Probes, which focuses on STEM and sustainability, encouraging students to tackle real-world challenges through innovation. Its Learning for Life Programme (LLP), GESS LIFE, emphasizes community youth leadership, nurturing students into compassionate and proactive leaders. These niche programs set the school apart, aligning with Singapore?s push for 21st-century skills and making it a compelling choice for parents seeking a forward-thinking education.

Admission Process

Admission to Gan Eng Seng School is competitive, with PSLE cut-off points for 2025 ranging from 9 to 14 for Posting Group 3, 21 to 23 for Posting Group 2, and 25 to 28 for Posting Group 1, based on the latest MOE data. The school does not have affiliations with primary schools, so entry is based solely on PSLE scores or Direct School Admission (DSA).

Key Admission Details

• PSLE Cut-Off Points (2025):

  • Posting Group 3: 9?14

  • Posting Group 2: 21?23

  • Posting Group 1: 25?28

• DSA Categories: Gan Eng Seng offers DSA in areas like basketball, table tennis, leadership, and STEM, ideal for students with talents in sports, academics, or community service.

• Application Tips:

  • Attend the school?s open house, typically held in May or June, to explore facilities and meet teachers.

  • Connect with current students or parents through online forums or school events to gain firsthand insights.

  • Understand the Full Subject-Based Banding (SBB) system, which allows students to take subjects at different levels (e.g., G1, G2, G3) based on their strengths, offering flexibility in their academic journey.

Gan Eng Seng follows the O-Level track, preparing students for the GCE O-Level examinations, with no Integrated Programme (IP) offered. Parents should review the school?s academic pathways to ensure alignment with their child?s goals.

Curriculum and Academic Excellence

Gan Eng Seng School offers a robust secondary curriculum designed to prepare students for O-Level success while fostering critical thinking and creativity. Core subjects include English Language, Mathematics (Elementary and Additional), Sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Biology), and Humanities (Social Studies, Geography, History). Elective options like Principles of Accounts, Literature in English, Art, and Music provide diverse pathways for students to explore their interests.

Academic Highlights

• O-Level Performance: The school consistently achieves strong pass rates in key subjects, particularly in Mathematics and Sciences, with many students securing distinctions.

• Specialized Programs: The GESS Probes ALP integrates STEM with sustainability, offering hands-on projects like mobile robotics to spark innovation.

• Bilingual Education: Options for Higher Chinese, Higher Malay, and Tamil Language cater to students pursuing linguistic excellence.

• Notable Achievements: Gan Eng Seng has earned recognition for its academic and CCA achievements, with alumni excelling in fields like business, technology, and public service.

The school?s emphasis on secondary school math tuition and structured academic support ensures students excel in O-Level math, a critical subject for future academic and career success.

Facilities and Extracurricular Activities

Gan Eng Seng School boasts modern facilities to support both academic and extracurricular pursuits:

• Smart Classrooms: Equipped with interactive technology for engaging lessons.

• Science and Computer Labs: Well-equipped for hands-on STEM learning.

• Sports Complex: Includes fields and courts for basketball, football, and table tennis.

• Arts Studios: Spaces for music, drama, and dance to nurture creativity.

Co-Curricular Activities (CCAs)

The school offers a wide range of CCAs, fostering teamwork, leadership, and character development:

• Sports: Basketball (Boys), Canoeing, Cross Country, Football (Boys), Table Tennis (Girls).

• Uniformed Groups: Boys? Brigade, Girls? Brigade, National Cadet Corps (NCC), National Police Cadet Corps (NPCC), Scouts, St John Brigade.

• Performing Arts: Choir, Marching Band, Modern Dance, English Drama.

• Clubs and Societies: Entrepreneurship, Infocomm Technology (Media Production), STEM Club.

These CCAs align with DSA opportunities, allowing students to leverage their talents for admission or personal growth. Participation in CCAs like the STEM Club reinforces skills learned in programs like GESS Probes, enhancing O-Level preparation through practical application.

Student Life and School Culture

Gan Eng Seng School fosters a nurturing and inclusive culture, guided by its values of resilience, respect, and responsibility. With a focus on pastoral care, the school provides Special Educational Needs Officers to support diverse learners. Class sizes are kept manageable, ensuring personalized attention, while anti-bullying policies and counseling services promote student well-being.

Tips for Transitioning to Secondary School

• Build Study Habits: Encourage consistent revision, especially for core subjects like Mathematics and English, to manage the increased workload.

• Get Involved: Joining a CCA helps students build friendships and develop time-management skills.

• Communicate: Regular check-ins with teachers or counselors can ease the transition to secondary school life.

The GESS LIFE Programme emphasizes leadership and community service, preparing students for real-world challenges while fostering a sense of belonging.

Location and Contact

• Address: Gan Eng Seng School, 1 Henderson Road, Singapore 159561

• Contact: Phone: 6474 5594 | Email: [email protected] | Website: www.ganengsengsch.moe.edu.sg

• Accessibility: Located near Redhill MRT and accessible via bus routes along Henderson Road, the school is convenient for families in central Singapore. Nearby amenities include Tiong Bahru Plaza and local eateries, making it a practical choice for busy parents.

The Importance of Mathematics in Secondary Education

Mathematics is a cornerstone of secondary education at Gan Eng Seng School, equipping students with problem-solving skills essential for O-Level exams and beyond. Elementary Mathematics (E-Math) and Additional Mathematics (A-Math) build a strong foundation for logical thinking, critical for STEM careers in fields like engineering, data science, and finance. The school?s focus on secondary school math tuition and programs like GESS Probes ensures students excel in O-Level math, fostering confidence and cognitive growth.

For parents seeking A-Math tuition or a math tutor, Gan Eng Seng?s structured support and dedicated teachers provide a nurturing environment for academic success. Choosing this school means investing in a balanced education that prepares your child for both academic challenges and personal growth, making it one of the best secondary schools in Singapore.

FAQ?s about Gan Eng Seng

Is Gan Eng Seng a good school?
Gan Eng Seng School is one of Singapore?s oldest secondary schools, founded in 1885, and is recognized for its strong emphasis on STEM sustainability and community youth leadership through its Applied Learning and Learning for Life Programmes. It provides a holistic education with diverse CCAs and subjects, preparing students for O-Levels and beyond. Parents often appreciate its historical significance and government support.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=gan-eng-seng-school

 

Is Gan Eng Seng a co-ed school?  
Yes, Gan Eng Seng School is a co-educational government secondary school, having transitioned to co-ed in 1987 after being a boys? school for over a century. It welcomes both male and female students in a single-session format.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=gan-eng-seng-school

 

What is the ranking of Gan Eng Seng Sec School?  
Singapore?s Ministry of Education does not publish official rankings for secondary schools, focusing instead on holistic development and individual school strengths. Gan Eng Seng School is noted for its long history and programmes like STEM sustainability.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=gan-eng-seng-school

 

What is the cut-off point for Gan Eng Seng Sec School?  
The cut-off points for non-affiliated students are Posting Group 3: 9-14, Posting Group 2: 21-23, and Posting Group 1: 25-28, based on the previous year?s PSLE results. These points represent the score of the last admitted student and may vary annually. Check the MOE SchoolFinder for the latest updates after PSLE.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=gan-eng-seng-school

 

What subjects are offered at Gan Eng Seng School?
The school offers a range of subjects including English Language, Mathematics, Science, Additional Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Humanities (Social Studies with Geography or History), Principles of Accounts, Art, Design & Technology, Food & Consumer Education, and languages like Chinese, Malay, and Tamil. Subject combinations support O-Level preparation in Express and Normal streams.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=gan-eng-seng-school

 

What CCAs are offered at Gan Eng Seng School for character development? 
CCAs include sports such as Basketball (Boys), Canoeing, Cross Country, Football (Boys), and Table Tennis (Girls); uniformed groups like Boys? Brigade, Girls? Brigade, NPCC, St John Brigade, Scouts, and NCC (Land); performing arts like Choir, Marching Band, Modern Dance, and English Drama; and clubs including Entrepreneurship, Infocomm Technology (Media Production), Student Leadership, and STEM. These activities foster leadership and values.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=gan-eng-seng-school

 

Is Gan Eng Seng School affiliated with any primary school?  
No, Gan Eng Seng School has no affiliated primary schools, as admission cut-off points are provided only for non-affiliated students. Students from any primary school can apply based on PSLE scores or DSA.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=gan-eng-seng-school

 

What is the Applied Learning Programme at Gan Eng Seng School?  
The Applied Learning Programme (ALP) is STEM ? Sustainability (GESS Probes), which integrates science, technology, engineering, and math to address sustainability issues, helping students develop practical skills for real-world applications.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=gan-eng-seng-school

 

What is the Learning for Life Programme at Gan Eng Seng School?
The Learning for Life Programme (LLP) is Community Youth Leadership (GESS LIFE Programme), focusing on building confident leaders through community service, self-discovery, habit development, and world-design initiatives for character growth.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=gan-eng-seng-school

 

How to apply via DSA to Gan Eng Seng School?  
Students with talents in areas like leadership, sports, or performing arts can apply through the Direct School Admission-Secondary (DSA-Sec) exercise via the MOE portal. Applications typically open in May, with selection based on trials or portfolios. Contact the school for specific talent areas and timelines.
Source: https://www.ganengsengsch.moe.edu.sg

 

What are the school hours at Gan Eng Seng School?
School operates from Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 5:30 pm, in a single-session format to support curriculum and CCAs. This schedule aligns with standard MOE guidelines for secondary schools.
Source: https://www.ganengsengsch.moe.edu.sg/contact-us/

 

What is the address of Gan Eng Seng School? 
The school is located at 1 Henderson Road, Singapore 159561, in the Bukit Merah area. It is accessible by public transport for easy commuting.
Source: https://www.ganengsengsch.moe.edu.sg/contact-us/

 

What are the contact details for Gan Eng Seng School?  
For general enquiries, call +65 6474 5594 or email [email protected]. The official website provides further details on reaching out.
Source: https://www.ganengsengsch.moe.edu.sg/contact-us/

 

What O-Level subjects are available at Gan Eng Seng School? 
O-Level subjects include Additional Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Geography, History, Literature in English, Principles of Accounts, Science (Chem/Bio or Phy/Chem), Art, Music, and languages. Students can choose combinations based on streams and interests. Check the curriculum page for latest O-Level updates.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=gan-eng-seng-school

 

Does Gan Eng Seng School offer subject-based banding? 
Yes, as a government secondary school, it implements full subject-based banding (FSBB) allowing students to take subjects at varying levels (G1, G2, G3) based on strengths, replacing traditional streams for more flexible learning.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=gan-eng-seng-school

 

What are the facilities at Gan Eng Seng School?  
Information not available on the official websites. Please contact the school directly for details on labs, sports fields, and other amenities.
Source: Information not available on the official websites

 

Is Gan Eng Seng School part of an integrated programme? 
No, Gan Eng Seng School does not offer an integrated programme; it focuses on preparing students for O-Levels through its curriculum, with pathways to post-secondary options like junior colleges or polytechnics.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=gan-eng-seng-school

 

How does Gan Eng Seng School support transitions from primary to secondary education?  
The school follows MOE guidelines with orientation programmes, buddy systems, and adjustment support for Secondary 1 students. It emphasizes character development through its LLP to ease the shift. Specific details can be obtained by contacting the school.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=gan-eng-seng-school

 

What is the history of Gan Eng Seng School? 
Founded in 1885 by philanthropist Gan Eng Seng as the Anglo-Chinese Free School for poor boys, it became a government school in 1938, turned co-ed in 1987, and has relocated multiple times, now at Henderson Road. It pioneered bilingual education and remains committed to excellence.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=gan-eng-seng-school

 

What are the school fees for Gan Eng Seng School?  
As a government secondary school, monthly fees for Singapore citizens are typically low (around $5), with higher amounts for permanent residents and international students. Fees include GST subsidies for citizens and PRs. Use the MOE fees checker for exact amounts.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/financial-matters/fees

 

You may want to check out other secondary schools in Singapore below:

1. Raffles Girls? School
2. Hwa Chong Institution
3. Nanyang Girls? High School
4. Raffles Institution Secondary
5. Anglo-Chinese School Independent
6. Dunman High School Secondary
7. Methodist Girls? Secondary
8. National Junior College
9. Catholic High School Secondary
10. CHIJ St. Nicholas Girls? Secondary
11. River Valley High School
12. Singapore Chinese Girls? School
13. St. Joseph?s Institution Secondary
14. Temasek Junior College Secondary
15. Anglo-Chinese School Barker Road
16. Cedar Girls? Secondary School
17. CHIJ Secondary Toa Payoh
18. Chung Cheng High School Main
19. Kuo Chuan Presbyterian Secondary School
20. St. Andrew?s Secondary School
21. Victoria School
22. Anderson Secondary School
23. Crescent Girls? School
24. Fairfield Methodist School Secondary
25. Nan Chiau High
26. Nan Hua High School
27. Paya Lebar Methodist Girls? School Secondary
28. Swiss Cottage Secondary School
29. Anglican High School
30. Bukit Panjang Govt. High School
31. Chung Cheng High Yishun
32. Maris Stella High School
33. Ngee Ann Secondary School
34. St. Margaret?s Secondary
35. St. Patrick?s School
36. Temasek Secondary School
37. CHIJ St. Theresa?s Convent
38. Commonwealth Secondary School
39. Fuhua Secondary School
40. Presbyterian High
41. Tanjong Katong Girls? School
42. Tanjong Katong Secondary School
43. Yishun Town Secondary School
44. Zhonghua Secondary School
45. CHIJ Katong Convent
46. CHIJ St. Joseph?s Convent
47. Clementi Town Secondary School
48. Dunman Secondary School
49. Edgefield Secondary School
50. Geylang Methodist School Secondary
51. Holy Innocents? High School
52. Kranji Secondary School
53. Riverside Secondary School
54. St. Hilda?s Secondary School
55. Xinmin Secondary School
56. Bukit Batok Secondary School
57. Evergreen Secondary School
58. Gan Eng Seng
59. Hua Yi Secondary School
60. Pei Hwa Secondary School
61. St. Anthony?s Canossian Secondary School
62. Yusof Ishak Secondary School
63. Ang Mo Kio Secondary School
64. Bowen Secondary School
65. Hai Sing Catholic School
66. Jurong Secondary School
67. St. Gabriel?s Secondary School
68. Bedok View Secondary School
69. Deyi Secondary School
70. Greendale Secondary School
71. Jurong West Secondary School
72. Queensway Secondary School
73. West Spring Secondary School
74. Ahmad Ibrahim Secondary School
75. Beatty Secondary School
76. Christ Church Secondary School
77. Hillgrove Secondary School
78. Mayflower Secondary School
79. North Vista Secondary School
80. Pasir Ris Crest Secondary School
81. Pasir Ris Secondary School
82. Bedok South Secondary School
83. Compassvale Secondary School
84. Kent Ridge Secondary School
85. Naval Base Secondary School
86. Orchid Park Secondary School
87. Tampines Secondary School
88. Unity Secondary School
89. Yuan Ching Secondary School
90. Bukit View Secondary School
91. Peirce Secondary School
92. Punggol Secondary School
93. Seng Kang Secondary School
94. Woodgrove Secondary School
95. Yishun Secondary School
96. Zhenghua Secondary School
97. Admiralty Secondary School
98. Bedok Green Secondary School
99. Chua Chu Kang Secondary School
100. Hougang Secondary School
101. Jurongville Secondary School
102. New Town Secondary School
103. Peicai Secondary School
104. Yuhua Secondary School
105. Assumption English School
106. Bartley Secondary School
107. Bendemeer Secondary School
108. Boon Lay Secondary School
109. Broadrick Secondary School
110. Bukit Merah Secondary School
111. Canberra Secondary School
112. Changkat Changi Secondary School
113. Damai Secondary School
114. Dunearn Secondary School
115. East Spring Secondary School
116. Greenridge Secondary School
117. Guangyang Secondary School
118. Junyuan Secondary School
119. Juying Secondary School
120. Loyang View Secondary School
121. Manjusri Secondary School
122. Marsiling Secondary School
123. Meridian Secondary School
124. Montfort Secondary School
125. Northbrooks Secondary School
126. Northland Secondary School
127. Outram Secondary School
128. Queenstown Secondary School
129. Regent Secondary School
130. Sembawang Secondary School
131. Serangoon Garden Secondary School
132. Serangoon Secondary School
133. Springfield Secondary School
134. Westwood Secondary School
135. Whitley Secondary School
136. Woodlands Ring Secondary School
137. Woodlands Secondary School
138. Yio Chu Kang Secondary School
139. Yuying Secondary School
140. Assumption Pathway School
141. Crest Secondary School
142. Fuchun Secondary School
143. Northlight School
144. NUS High School of Mathematics and Science
145. School of Science and Technology, Singapore
146. School of the Arts, Singapore
147. Singapore Sports School
148. Spectra Secondary School

As a parent in Singapore with a kid in secondary school soon, you know how crucial it is to prep for the O-Level and N-Level exams?they?re like big doors that lead to your child?s favorite junior college or polytechnic, shaping their future jobs and dreams. Math is a superstar in these exams, carrying a lot of weight in the total scores, sharpening smart thinking and problem-solving skills that help in other subjects like physics and economics, and directly affecting chances for top streams or courses after secondary school. That?s why getting good at math early and sticking with it is key?to dodge low grades, grow tough for tests, and grab those high marks for the best spots.

Odyssey Math Tuition, a helpful spot for secondary school math tuition made to support students through secondary years. It?s run by Principal Math Tutor Mr. Justin Tan, who started it in 2013 using his know-how from fixing common math problems for kids. Odyssey Math Tuition offers focused secondary 1 math tuition, secondary 2 math tuition, secondary 3 math tuition, and secondary 4 math tuition in easy-going face-to-face math tuition classes or 247 online math tuition. Mr. Tan built Odyssey Math Tuition?s custom math curriculum that complements Singapore?s Ministry of Education (MOE) math lessons, adding clever test tips, fun tools, and practice on main topics like algebra, geometry, and trigonometry to get students ready and winning at O-Levels and N-Levels with Odyssey Math Tuition?s unique approach to math tuition.

The Importance of Mathematics and OMT

Mathematics is a cornerstone of education, equipping students with critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills essential for success in a technology-driven world. GESS supports its students with a rigorous mathematics curriculum, but for those seeking extra guidance, Odyssey Math Tuition (OMT) is an excellent resource. OMT provides specialized primary school math tuition, secondary school math tuition, and junior college math tuition, tailored to each student?s needs. With experienced math tutors, OMT helps students master concepts from basic arithmetic to advanced calculus, ensuring academic success. Visit Odyssey Math Tuition to learn more about how OMT can support your child?s mathematical journey.

Disclaimer: All information provided here has been compiled from publicly available sources. While we have made every effort to ensure accuracy, we do not guarantee that the information is complete or error-free. We disclaim any liability for inaccuracies or omissions. If you find any errors or have concerns about the content, please let us know so we can address them promptly.

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