Press Releases
Information Sheet on New Generation Primary School Facilities
To support the delivery of holistic education, the Primary Education Review and Implementation (PERI) Committee has recommended that primary schools provide more spaces that facilitate engaged learning in both academic and non-academic areas.
A number of schools are already experimenting with various classroom designs that encourage greater interaction and self-discovery, outdoor learning facilities that facilitate experiential and hands-on learning as well as special rooms and facilities to support the teaching of Science, Mathematics, Performing & Visual Arts, or Outdoor & Physical Education. Based on their experience, the Ministry of Education is studying the possibility of providing some of these facilities system-wide to all our primary schools:
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Redesigned Classrooms. The classroom is a key area for learning. We are exploring how best to redesign classrooms and furniture to flexibly support various teaching methods and create an environment conducive for the learning of both knowledge and skills. In addition to the usual frontal mode of teaching, the layout will be designed so that furniture can be re-configured to support both central sharing, e.g. through presentations, as well as learning in small groups. “Learning centres” will also be incorporated to facilitate various modes of learning, e.g. the use of ICT, and display space provided to showcase interesting learning materials and students’ work.
There will be different types of learning centres to support a range of activities. Examples include a reading corner and an ICT centre to support different modes of learning and enquiry. A performance station will support the development of communication skills through speech and drama.
Outdoor Experiential Learning. Experiential learning can evoke in students a spirit of inquiry and curiosity about the world around them. It can stimulate an interest in Science and facilitate a better understanding and application of concepts in Science and Mathematics.
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We are studying how to better use outdoor facilities to provide students with richer opportunities for experiential learning and to have fun learning through discovery. Examples of such facilities include outdoor science labs, eco-gardens, insectariums and ponds.
Programme for Active Learning (PAL). With PAL, all pupils will be given the opportunity to participate in Sports and Outdoor Education. Most primary schools already have a range of indoor and outdoor sport facilities e.g. the Multi-purpose Hall, the school field, games courts and the new Indoor Sports Hall. The plan to equip all primary schools with an Indoor Sports Hall could be accelerated to be in tandem with the transition to single-session.
To further support the delivery of PAL, we are looking into the provision of facilities such as a Performing Arts Studio or a Band Room to support the visual and performing arts. We are also studying provision of a Media Hub, which is already available in some schools. Students can build confidence in their communication skills by recording their role playing as reporters or deejays. Through exposure to such activities from a young age, students can develop useful life skills and nurture leadership qualities.
