Managing Socioeconomic Diversity, Resource Adequacy and Risks of Stigmatisation in Schools under Phase 2C Two-Track Scheme

Name and Constituency of Member of Parliament

Assoc Prof Kenneth Goh, Nominated Member of Parliament

Question

To ask the Minister for Education for schools under the Phase 2C Two-Track Scheme (a) whether the Ministry will review the adequacy and allocation of financial and manpower resources in anticipation of changes in their socio-economic and geographical intake profiles; and (b) what indicators would trigger additional school-level support.

Name and Constituency of Member of Parliament

Mr David Hoe, Jurong East-Bukit Batok GRC

Question

To ask the Minister for Education in light of the Phase 2C Two-Track Scheme and beyond financial assistance, whether and how the Ministry will (i) prepare school leaders and teachers to manage socio-economic differences in diverse student cohorts (ii) engage parents and pupils in fostering inclusive peer relationships and (iii) guide schools to avoid inadvertently stigmatising disadvantaged pupils through financial assistance procedures and activities.

Combined Response

1. Our schools provide common spaces for students of different backgrounds to interact with one another, learn together, and forge shared formative experiences. All schools have established approaches to build a culture of care and mutual respect, anchored upon positive peer relationships. For example, through Character and Citizenship Education lessons, students are encouraged to appreciate different lived experiences and practise empathy for others. They are also taught to look out for and care for one another. Such learning is reinforced beyond the classroom through common experiences and activities.

2. MOE has a system to provide financial and manpower resources to schools based on needs. Schools that need more funding for school-based financial assistance can approach MOE directly for top-ups.

3. MOE and schools are mindful to administer financial assistance sensitively and discreetly. The current application and subsidy disbursement processes are designed to avoid drawing unnecessary attention to students receiving assistance. For example, applications are made online while the subsidies are disbursed to students on MOE FAS via modes that are commonly used by other students, such as school smartcards for public transport expenses or POSB Smart Buddy cards for purchase of meals in school canteens.

4. Our schools will continue to create a conducive and inclusive school environment for all students, regardless of background.