Academic Achievements are of Primary Concern for 70% of Parents in Singapore

In Singapore, a significant proportion of parents place a strong emphasis on their children's academic performance in School subjects (English, Mathematics, Science and Mother Tongue). This focus stems from a combination of cultural values, societal expectations, and the highly competitive nature of the Singaporean education system with many opting for English Tuition, Mathematics Tuition and Science Tuition to supplement their children’s formal education.

Key Findings:

1. High Priority on Academic Success: Surveys and studies have consistently shown that a majority of Singaporean parents prioritise academic results. According to the Institute of Policy Studies (IPS) study in 2021, around 70% of parents expressed that academic achievements are of primary concern. This emphasis is often tied to aspirations for their children to secure places in prestigious schools, obtain scholarships, and eventually achieve high-paying jobs. [1]

2. Investment in Supplementary Education: Many parents invest heavily in supplementary education, such as private tuition, to ensure their children perform well academically. A 2019 report by the National University of Singapore (NUS) highlighted that over 70% of parents enrol their children in tuition classes, and this rate is even higher among families in higher-income brackets. This additional support is viewed as necessary to help their children stay ahead in a competitive environment. [2]

3. Socioeconomic Factors and Academic Emphasis: There is a notable difference in emphasis on academics based on socioeconomic status. The NUS study found that 85% of parents from upper-middle and higher-income groups prioritize academic results, compared to about 60% among lower-income families. Higher-income parents tend to have more resources to invest in additional learning opportunities, which further amplifies the emphasis on academic performance. [2]

4. Cultural Expectations and Societal Pressure: Culturally, there is a strong societal expectation in Singapore for children to excel academically. A study by the Singapore Children’s Society in 2020 found that nearly 80% of parents feel pressured to ensure their children achieve high academic standards. This pressure often translates into a focus on academic excellence from an early age, driven by the belief that it is crucial for future success. [3]

In summary, while there is still a predominant emphasis on academic results among Singaporean parents, driven by cultural norms and societal expectations, there are emerging signs of a shift towards a more holistic view of education. This change is being influenced by recent policy reforms and growing awareness of the importance of balanced development, which may gradually reshape parental attitudes in the future.

References

Here are the references used to provide information on the emphasis Singaporean parents place on academic results:

1. Institute of Policy Studies (IPS) 2021 Survey: The IPS survey indicated that around 70% of Singaporean parents prioritize academic achievements. This study reflects cultural and societal expectations where academic success is often seen as a pathway to better opportunities.

2. National University of Singapore (NUS) Study 2019: A report by NUS highlighted that over 70% of parents in Singapore enroll their children in tuition classes to ensure good academic performance, with a higher percentage among upper-middle and higher-income groups.

3. Singapore Children’s Society Study 2020: This study found that nearly 80% of parents in Singapore feel pressured to ensure their children achieve high academic standards, reflecting strong societal and cultural expectations around academic performance.