The gifted education programme in Singapore is an enrichment programme designed to nurture intellectually gifted students to realize their fullest potential. It was first introduced in 1984 by the ministry of education. Later it was created as part of reforms to create education system that caters to diverse talents and learning aptitudes.
It was recognised that intelligent children thrived on high degree intellectual stimulation and may become mediocre. Gifted students would follow the regular curriculum and take the same examination as those in the mainstream. But additional subjects were added to expose them to more depth of coverages. But how much do you know about gifted education programmes in Singapore?
Well, a proposed programme based on the idea of enrichment was drawn up in the “gifted project” concept paper in 1983. The paper defined the objectives of the GEP, which were to cultivate higher level thinking skills and capabilities for self-directed learning. It also discussed the identification of teachers and selection of pupils for the programme.
A special project unit was formed soon, after in May 1983 to select teachers and pupils for the GEP, conduct teacher training sessions, prepare the new curriculum, and implement the programme. Later, the project members underwent a week-long training course expert on education for gifted children.
The progress of the GEP is monitored through a regular feedback and informal meetings involving pupils, their parent’s principals and teachers in consultation with MOE. This programme has garnered positive feedback and praise for effectively providing all- round development for high-ability students. A 2005/ 2006 survey of former GEP students found that majority gained admission into prestigious overseas universities.
But there have been cases of students who struggle to cope with the workload and expectations of the programme as well as suffer ridicule and discrimination from their own classmates. moreover, the GEP has also been criticised for breeding elitism, as GEP students were fond of interacting only among themselves and had difficulty relating to their non-GEP peers.
As we conclude, it is important to note that this programme has gradually expanded in the primary and secondary levels. At the post-college level, the introduction of the integrated programme has led to changes in the gifted education programme.
While the curriculum and approach are similar, the GEP has the advantage allowing students to proceed to junior college. Either way, you should never skimp on adequate GEP preparation as it goes a long way in making sure your child excels.
