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Last Updated: 18 October 2021

Overview of primary school curriculum

The primary school curriculum aims to provide all children with learning opportunities that recognise their strengths and develop their full potential.

The primary school curriculum focuses on:
  • Subject-based learning such as languages, mathematics, science, art, music and social studies.
  • Knowledge skills through subject-based learning and project work.
  • Character development through daily interaction, Character and Citizenship Education and co-curricular activities.

Course length

6 years (Primary 1 to 6)

Subjects

  • English Language
  • Mother Tongue Language (MTL)
  • Mathematics
  • Science
  • Art
  • Music
  • Physical Education
  • Social Studies
  • Character and Citizenship Education
Higher MTL may be offered to your child depending on their MTL results.

Subject-based banding

Based on your child's Primary 4 school examination results, they will be offered English Language, MTL, Mathematics and Science at the foundation or standard levels in Primary 5 and 6. Possible subject combinations are:
  • 4 standard subjects.
  • 4 foundation subjects.
  • A combination of standard and foundation subjects.
Learn more about subject-based banding and subject combinations.

Programmes for all students

  • Project Work
  • Co-curricular Activities
  • Programme for Active Learning

Programmes for selected students

Primary 1
Primary 2
Primary 3
  • Identification exercise for the Gifted Education Programme (GEP).
  • Selected students will be invited to join the MTSP.
Primary 4
  • Selected students will be invited to join the GEP.
  • Selected students will be invited to join the MTSP.
  • Nominated students will take part in the Junior Sports Academy (JSA) selection trial. If selected, they will join the programme from Primary 4 to 6.

Certification offered

Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE) at end of Primary 6

Next educational level

Secondary school