The PSLE is a significant milestone in every child’s learning journey in Singapore, and with the new Achievement Levels (AL) system fully in place, many parents are seeking ways to support their children through it. As a mother of four boys fast approaching their teenage years and an educator, I understand the challenges families face during this critical time.
Balancing my business and family life has taught me the importance of a positive, nurturing approach to learning. As we gear up for the 2025 PSLE, I believe it’s crucial to tailor strategies to each child’s unique strengths and weaknesses. By focusing on steady practice and targeting areas of improvement, we can help them approach the exams with confidence.
In this article, we’ll dive into the strategies suitable for three types of students. Each profile presents its own set of challenges, but with the right support and mindset, every child can thrive during the PSLE.
Understanding the New PSLE Grading System
First, let’s quickly review the Achievement Levels (AL) system that has been in place since 2021. The PSLE grading system has undergone significant changes with the introduction of the AL system, replacing the old T-score model. Instead of comparing students’ performances against their peers, the AL system focuses on individual achievement, with bands ranging from 1 to 8. The total PSLE score is now the sum of the four subject scores, ranging from 4 to 32. This shift aims to reduce competition and stress, encouraging students to focus on their own progress.
In addition, the introduction of three Posting Groups (1, 2, and 3) replaces the traditional Secondary school streams. Students will now be aligned with subjects at three levels – G1, G2, and G3, mapped to the former N(T), N(A), and Express streams. Flexibility is a key feature of this system: students who score AL5 or above in specific subjects will have the option to take them at a more challenging level. This flexibility extends throughout secondary school, allowing students to adjust their subject levels based on their evolving strengths, interests, and learning needs.
| PSLE Score (AL Scoring System) | Posting Group | Indicative level of most subjects at S1 |
| 4 – 20 | 3 | G3 |
| 21 – 22 | 2 or 3 | G2/3 |
| 23 – 24 | 2 | G2 |
| 25 | 1 or 2 | G1/2 |
| 26 – 30 *Students must also score AL7 or better in both English and Mathematics | 1 | G1 |
Student Profile 1: For students who need extra support in a particular subject (AL 5-6)
For students who are underperforming in one subject but performing better in others, the focus should be on maintaining consistent practice across all subjects. Improvement in the stronger subjects can result in significant jumps in grade levels, given that the AL bands become narrower at higher achievement levels. For example, moving from AL 4 to AL 3 may only require a five-mark improvement, which could significantly impact the overall PSLE score.
When it comes to the underperformed subject, targeted support is crucial. Begin by identifying topics where the student already has some level of competency, ensuring that marks on these questions are secured during exams. If the student struggles with foundational concepts, focus on building these essential skills first, as they will likely appear across multiple question types.
Parents can play a supportive role by helping their child identify recurring question types in past papers or by engaging additional tutoring resources if necessary. The goal is to steadily build confidence in the areas of improvement without neglecting the stronger ones.
Student Profile 2: Strong in One Subject, Underperforming in Three
For students who excel in one subject but struggle in three others, leveraging their strengths becomes an important part of the strategy. For instance, if a child has achieved AL 5 in one subject but is at AL 6 in the others, the focus should be on boosting the AL 5 subject first. This is because there’s a stronger foundation to build on, making it quicker to see improvements. A small improvement in this subject will also give the child a confidence boost, which can be carried over into their weaker subjects.
When addressing the underperforming subjects, use the same approach as with the first student profile – targeted support and consistent practice. However, it’s important to set small, achievable goals to keep the student motivated. Celebrate incremental progress, such as moving from a low AL 6 to a higher AL 6, as these victories can keep the child engaged and motivated to continue improving.
Encourage the student to apply the study habits that have worked for them in their stronger subject to the weaker ones. By doing so, they can develop a systematic approach to tackling areas of difficulty, and with time, bring their overall PSLE score to a more balanced level.
Student Profile 3: Average in All Four Subjects (AL 4-5)
For students who are average across all four subjects, the focus should be on achieving consistency in their study habits and maximising their overall score through a balanced approach. Begin with a comprehensive review of each subject to identify any common problem areas or gaps in understanding. This review will help target improvement efforts more effectively.
Prioritise subjects where small improvements could yield the most significant impact. For example, if the child is closer to AL 4 in one subject, direct extra attention to that subject to secure a higher score. Simultaneously, maintain a steady review of the other subjects to ensure that no ground is lost.
Quality over quantity is key during this stage. It’s more beneficial for the student to deeply understand and correct their mistakes than to complete endless practice papers without reflection. A focused, mindful approach to learning can help these students elevate their scores across the board.
By setting achievable goals and fostering a supportive environment, we can help students achieve their best outcomes. Let’s guide our children to approach the PSLE with confidence, prioritising their progress over the final score and our relationship with them over a chapter in our children’s education journey.
Contributor: Lily Chew, Founder of Lil’ but Mighty
Lily Chew, founder of Lil’ but Mighty, has built a thriving English tuition business from the ground up. Starting in 2015 with just 10 students in her home, Lil’ but Mighty now serves over 1200 students across six centres, including their latest, Lil’ but Mighty Tampines, which opened in 2023. With a background in education from the National Institute of Education (NIE) and five years of teaching at an MOE primary school, Lily’s passion for creating a flexible, nurturing learning environment has earned her a loyal following among families seeking quality English education. As a mother of four, Lily continues to balance her growing business with family life while also sharing her expertise through her blog and company website.