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Special Education (SPED)

Education tailored for children with special needs, provided by specialized schools and supported by the Ministry of Education.

Sections

1. National Regulations Governing SPED in Singapore

Special Education in Singapore is overseen by the Ministry of Education (MOE) in collaboration with the National Council of Social Service (NCSS). The government recognizes the importance of inclusive education and has implemented policies to ensure that children with special needs receive appropriate support.

Key Regulations:

  • Compulsory Education Act (Amendment for SPED):

    • Since 2019, children with moderate to severe special needs are exempted from compulsory education in mainstream schools but are required to attend SPED schools unless they are homeschooled or unable to attend due to medical reasons.
    • This ensures that children with special needs have access to education tailored to their abilities.

  • SPED Curriculum Framework:

    • SPED schools follow a curriculum framework developed by MOE, focusing on six core learning domains: academic skills, daily living skills, social-emotional development, vocational skills, physical education, and the arts.
    • The curriculum is customized to meet the diverse needs of students with disabilities.

  • Integration with Mainstream Schools:

    • The government promotes inclusive education where possible, encouraging integration of students with mild special needs into mainstream schools with additional support.

  • Support for Early Intervention:

    • The Early Intervention Programme for Infants and Children (EIPIC) provides therapy and educational support for children aged 0-6 years with developmental delays or disabilities.

2. General Costs Involved in SPED

The cost of SPED services in Singapore varies depending on the type of school, the level of support required, and the subsidies available. The government provides significant subsidies to make SPED affordable for families.

Key Cost Details:

  • SPED School Fees:

    • Monthly fees for SPED schools range from SGD 10 to SGD 350 after subsidies, depending on the household income and the school.
    • Fees are heavily subsidized for Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents (PRs). Non-citizens pay higher fees.

  • Early Intervention Programme (EIPIC):

    • Fees for EIPIC services range from SGD 5 to SGD 500 per month after subsidies, depending on household income and citizenship status.

  • Additional Costs:

    • Parents may need to pay for transport, assistive devices, or therapy services not covered by subsidies.
    • Financial assistance schemes, such as the MOE Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS) and the Assistive Technology Fund (ATF), are available to help families manage costs.

Subsidy Schemes:

  • Means-Testing for Subsidies:
    • Subsidies are determined based on the household’s Per Capita Income (PCI). Lower-income families receive higher subsidies.
  • Enhanced Pilot for Private Intervention Providers (PPIP):
    • Families can access subsidies for private early intervention services under this scheme.

3. Standard Procedures for Accessing SPED Services

Accessing SPED services in Singapore involves several steps, from assessment to placement in an appropriate program or school. Below is an outline of the process:

Step 1: Developmental Screening and Diagnosis

  • Parents who suspect developmental delays or special needs in their child should consult a pediatrician or a specialist.
  • Developmental screening is available at polyclinics, private clinics, or hospitals.
  • A formal diagnosis is required to access SPED services. This may involve assessments by psychologists, therapists, or medical professionals.

Step 2: Referral to Early Intervention or SPED Schools

  • For children aged 0-6 years:
    • They may be referred to EIPIC or private early intervention programs.
  • For children aged 7 years and above:
    • They may be referred to SPED schools or mainstream schools with additional support.

Step 3: Application to SPED Schools

  • Parents can apply to SPED schools through the Special Education Needs (SEN) Placement Panel, which is managed by MOE.
  • The panel assesses the child’s needs and recommends a suitable SPED school.

Step 4: Enrollment and Support

  • Once a placement is confirmed, the child is enrolled in the recommended SPED school.
  • Schools provide Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) tailored to the child’s needs.

Step 5: Ongoing Support and Review

  • Regular reviews are conducted to monitor the child’s progress and adjust the support provided.

4. Country-Specific Considerations and Cultural Aspects

Singapore’s approach to SPED is shaped by its multicultural society and emphasis on inclusivity. Here are some unique aspects to consider:

Cultural Sensitivity:

  • Singapore is a multicultural society, and SPED schools cater to students from diverse ethnic and linguistic backgrounds.
  • Schools often celebrate cultural festivals and encourage inclusivity among students.

Stigma and Awareness:

  • While awareness of special needs has improved significantly, some stigma may still exist in certain communities.
  • The government and non-profit organizations actively promote public education campaigns to reduce stigma and encourage acceptance of individuals with special needs.

Collaboration with Voluntary Welfare Organizations (VWOs):

  • Most SPED schools in Singapore are run by VWOs with funding and oversight from MOE and NCSS.
  • These organizations play a critical role in providing specialized services and fostering community support.

Transition to Adulthood:

  • SPED schools emphasize vocational training and life skills to prepare students for independent living and employment.
  • Programs like the School-to-Work Transition Programme help students with special needs transition to the workforce.

Accessibility and Infrastructure:

  • Singapore is committed to creating an inclusive environment, with SPED schools equipped with facilities to support students with physical, sensory, or intellectual disabilities.
  • Public spaces and transport systems are increasingly designed to accommodate individuals with special needs.

5. Key Resources and Contacts

Here are some important resources for parents and caregivers seeking SPED services in Singapore:

  • Ministry of Education (MOE):

  • National Council of Social Service (NCSS):

  • Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA):

  • SG Enable:

    • A government agency that supports persons with disabilities and their families.
    • Website: www.sgenable.sg
    • Contact: +65 1800 8585 885

  • SPED Schools Directory:

    • A list of SPED schools is available on the MOE website, detailing the specific needs each school caters to.

Conclusion

Special Education in Singapore is a robust system designed to meet the diverse needs of children with disabilities. With strong government support, subsidies, and a focus on inclusivity, families can access a range of services to support their child’s development. By understanding the regulations, costs, and procedures, parents can make informed decisions and ensure their child receives the best possible care and education.