Navigating Secondary School Choices: A Spotlight on Yishun Town Secondary School

As a parent, the post-PSLE period can feel like standing at a crossroads—exciting yet overwhelming. You’ve invested so much in your child’s primary education, and now it’s time to envision their next chapter in one of Singapore’s top secondary schools in Singapore 2025. If you’re seeking a nurturing environment that balances academic rigor with holistic growth, Yishun Town Secondary School (YTSS) stands out as a premier choice. Renowned for its commitment to excellence, this Yishun Town Secondary School review highlights why it’s a favorite among families looking for quality education in the north. With its strong track record and student-centered approach, YTSS is more than a school—it’s a launchpad for future leaders.

School Overview

Yishun Town Secondary School traces its roots back to January 1986, when it was established as a government school in the burgeoning Yishun neighbourhood. Officially opened on 29 July 1988 by then-Acting Minister for Education Dr Tony Tan, it began with nine classes and 13 dedicated pioneer teachers, sharing premises with nearby institutions before moving to its current site. In 2010, YTSS earned autonomous status from the Ministry of Education (MOE), a testament to its consistent performance and innovative spirit. Today, it celebrates over 38 years of shaping young minds, marking its 30th anniversary in 2016 with pride.

As a co-educational, single-session government autonomous school, YTSS welcomes students from diverse backgrounds, fostering an inclusive community of around 1,400. Its motto, “We Will Excel,” encapsulates a philosophy rooted in the belief that every child holds untapped potential to learn, achieve, and thrive. The school’s vision—”A Community of Leaders, A Fraternity of Professionals, A School of Distinction”—pairs with its mission: “Transforming Hearts and Minds, Empowering Lives.” This drives a holistic educational philosophy emphasizing values like resilience, integrity, and lifelong learning.

What sets YTSS apart? It’s the Language Elective Programme (LEP) in Tamil, one of few secondary schools offering this bilingual enrichment for deeper cultural immersion. Additionally, niche programs in science and technology, alongside special assistance for diverse learners, make it a standout among best secondary schools Singapore, blending tradition with forward-thinking initiatives.

Admission Process

Securing a spot at YTSS is competitive yet accessible, aligning with Singapore’s merit-based secondary school admission guide. As a non-affiliated school, entry hinges on PSLE Achievement Level (AL) scores, with cut-off points (COP) reflecting the last admitted student’s score. For 2025 intake based on 2024 PSLE results, the ranges are: Posting Group 1 (Express): 25-27, Posting Group 2 (Normal Academic): 21-22, and Posting Group 3 (Normal Technical): 6-12. These held steady from 2024, offering stability for planning.

Direct School Admission (DSA) provides another pathway, targeting talents in sports and arts. For 2025, YTSS offers DSA in Basketball (for both girls and boys), recognizing athletes who excel in teamwork and discipline. Applications typically open in May-June, with trials and interviews following.

To prepare, here’s a quick checklist for parents:

Tip	Details
Attend Open Houses	Held annually in May-June; tour facilities and chat with staff to gauge fit.
Gather Insights	Connect with current parents via school chats or forums for real-talk on Yishun Town Secondary School PSLE cut-off 2025.
Understand SBB	Explore Full Subject-Based Banding for flexible subject levels post-Secondary 2, easing transitions.
DSA Prep	Build portfolios early; focus on consistent training for categories like basketball.

YTSS follows standard O-Level tracks with Express, Normal (Academic), and Normal (Technical) streams, incorporating SBB for personalized learning. No Integrated Programme (IP) here, but the focus on foundational skills ensures smooth progression.

Curriculum and Academic Excellence

YTSS’s curriculum is a robust blend of MOE guidelines and school-specific enhancements, preparing students for O-Level success while nurturing curiosity. Core subjects include English Language, Mathematics (Elementary and Additional), Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics), and Humanities (Social Studies, Geography, History). Electives span Principles of Accounts, Higher Art, Literature in Tamil, and more, with bilingual options like Higher Chinese and Malay Language. The Full Subject-Based Banding system allows mixing proficiency levels, reducing streaming stress and promoting equity.

Academic prowess shines through: In 2024 O-Level results, 87.7% of students achieved at least five passes, with 97.3% passing at least three subjects—impressive metrics for holistic prep. YTSS has clinched the Sustained Achievement Award for Academics and earned value-added accolades in Normal streams. Nationally, it ranks solidly among autonomous schools, with alumni like Tan Hui Ting (2007 O-Level National Top Scorer) and recent honorees Julia Stoelwinder and Ng Ruo Xi (2024 MOE Special Awards) paving inspiring paths. The Lee Kuan Yew Award for Outstanding Normal Course Students further spotlights resilience-driven success.

Specialized programs amplify this: STEM initiatives spark innovation through robotics and environmental science modules, while leadership tracks build public speaking and project management skills. These align with O-Level preparation tips like consistent revision and peer tutoring, positioning YTSS as a beacon for aspiring professionals.

Facilities and Extracurricular Activities

Modern infrastructure at YTSS fuels both learning and leisure. Highlights include air-conditioned smart classrooms with interactive tech, state-of-the-art science and computer labs, a well-stocked library, and upgraded facilities like an indoor sports hall, multipurpose hall, and two lecture theatres—added in recent years for versatile use. Arts studios and a dedicated environmental science space encourage creativity and sustainability.

Extracurriculars, or Co-Curricular Activities (CCAs), are the heartbeat of student life, mandatory for holistic development. YTSS offers over 20 options, categorized below:

Sports & Games: Basketball, Bowling, Shooting, Table Tennis, Volleyball—honing discipline and DSA prospects.
Uniformed Groups: Boys’ Brigade, Girl Guides, National Police Cadet Corps (NPCC), National Cadet Corps (NCC)—building leadership and camaraderie.
Performing Arts: Chinese Dance, English Drama, Choir, Concert Band—fostering expression and cultural pride.
Clubs & Societies: Art & Crafts, International Chess, Photography, Infocomm Technology (Computing), Environmental Science—igniting passions in tech and eco-awareness.

CCAs aren’t just hobbies; they cultivate character, with awards recognizing contributions and linking to admissions edges like DSA.

Student Life and School Culture

At YTSS, school culture thrives on empathy and empowerment, creating a supportive haven amid secondary transitions. Daily routines blend structured lessons with flexible breaks, emphasizing work-life balance in a co-ed setting of manageable class sizes (around 40) and favorable teacher-student ratios. Pastoral care includes counseling, anti-bullying workshops, and inclusivity drives, drawing from MOE guidelines to champion mental well-being.

Values like perseverance and respect permeate “YTzen” life—students’ nickname—through resilience-building assemblies and peer mentoring. Reviews praise the warm community, where teachers act as guides, not just instructors. For newcomers, tips include establishing routines: chunk study sessions for the heavier workload, join clubs for instant friends, and leverage house systems for belonging.

Location and Contact

Nestled in Yishun’s heart, YTSS is at 6 Yishun Street 21, Singapore 768610—convenient for north-side families. Reach via Yishun MRT (North South Line, 10-minute walk) or buses 803, 812, 811 along Yishun Avenue 2. Nearby amenities like Yishun Community Centre and parks ease commutes, minimizing morning rushes.

Contact: +65 6758 7219 | [email protected] | www.yishuntownsec.moe.edu.sg

The Importance of Mathematics in Secondary Education

In the tapestry of secondary education, mathematics weaves the strongest threads—foundational for O-Level triumph and beyond. At YTSS, E-Math and A-Math sharpen analytical prowess, tackling real-world puzzles from algebra to calculus. These skills fuel STEM careers, from engineering to data science, while boosting cognitive agility for any path. Yet, challenges like abstract concepts can daunt; that’s where secondary school math tuition shines, offering tailored O-Level math tuition and A-Math tuition. Partnering with a skilled math tutor not only demystifies equations but instills confidence, echoing YTSS’s “We Will Excel” ethos.

Choosing YTSS means investing in a future where your child doesn’t just pass exams—they pioneer possibilities. Ready to explore? Dive into open houses and start that secondary school admission guide today.

FAQ’s about Yishun Town Secondary School

Is Yishun Town Secondary School a good school?
Yishun Town Secondary School is an autonomous government school recognized for its holistic education approach, focusing on developing well-rounded students through academic excellence, character building, and co-curricular activities. It has received awards such as the Singapore Best Practices for Teaching and Learning Award and has been granted autonomous status since 2010, indicating strong performance in educational standards. Parents often appreciate its emphasis on leadership, global thinking, and active citizenship.
Source: https://yishuntownsec.moe.edu.sg/about-us/permalink/

Is Yishun Town Secondary School a co-ed school?
Yes, Yishun Town Secondary School is a co-educational institution, welcoming both boys and girls. It operates as a single-session government autonomous school, fostering an inclusive environment for diverse learning experiences.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=Yishun%20Town%20Secondary%20School

What is the ranking of Yishun Town Secondary School Sec School?
Singapore’s Ministry of Education does not officially rank secondary schools, as emphasis is placed on holistic development rather than competitive rankings. Yishun Town Secondary School is recognized as an autonomous school, which signifies its high standards in curriculum and student outcomes.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=Yishun%20Town%20Secondary%20School

What is the cut-off point for Yishun Town Secondary School Sec School?
The cut-off points for Yishun Town Secondary School based on the 2024 PSLE scores are Posting Group 3: 6-12, Posting Group 2: 21-22, and Posting Group 1: 25-27 for non-affiliated students. These points reflect the score of the last student admitted and may vary annually; check the MOE website for the latest updates after S1 posting.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=Yishun%20Town%20Secondary%20School

What is the history of Yishun Town Secondary School?
Yishun Town Secondary School was established in January 1986 with nine classes and 13 pioneer teachers, initially sharing premises with Yishun Secondary School. It moved to its current campus at Yishun Street 21 in 1988 and was officially opened on 29 July 1988. The school underwent renovations and achieved autonomous status in 2010, with ongoing enhancements to support a vibrant learning environment.
Source: https://moehc.moe.edu.sg/school-histories/yishun-town-sec/

Is Yishun Town Secondary School affiliated with any primary school?
Information on affiliations is not available on the official websites. Yishun Town Secondary School does not list any affiliated primary schools in its admissions details, and parents are advised to contact the school directly for confirmation.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=Yishun%20Town%20Secondary%20School

What O-Level subjects are offered at Yishun Town Secondary School?
Yishun Town Secondary School offers a range of O-Level subjects including Additional Mathematics, Art, Biology, Chemistry, Chinese Language, English Language, Geography, Higher Chinese Language, History, Literature in English, Mathematics, Physics, Principles of Accounts, and various Humanities combinations like Social Studies with Geography or History. The school also provides electives such as the Language Elective Programme (Tamil). Subject offerings may change for subsequent intakes, so refer to the curriculum page for updates.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=Yishun%20Town%20Secondary%20School

What CCAs are available at Yishun Town Secondary School for character development?
The school offers diverse CCAs including Sports like Basketball, Bowling, Shooting, Table Tennis, and Volleyball; Uniformed Groups such as Boys’ Brigade, Girl Guides, NPCC, and NCDCC; Performing Arts like Choir, Chinese Dance, English Drama, and Concert Band; and Clubs including Art and Crafts, International Chess, Photography, Infocomm Technology, and Environmental Science. These activities promote leadership, teamwork, and resilience, contributing to students’ holistic character development.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=Yishun%20Town%20Secondary%20School

What is subject-based banding at Yishun Town Secondary School?
Yishun Town Secondary School implements full subject-based banding (SBB), allowing students to take subjects at different levels (G1, G2, G3) based on their strengths and interests, rather than being streamed into fixed courses. This promotes personalized learning in mixed form classes, enabling flexibility in academic pathways leading to O-Levels or other qualifications. Check the curriculum details for how SBB supports transitions from primary to secondary education.
Source: https://www.yishuntownsec.moe.edu.sg/files/2024_YTSS_Principal_s_Open_House_Presentation_Slides.pdf

How does Yishun Town Secondary School support the transition from primary to secondary education?
The school provides orientation programs and leadership training to help students adapt, including mixed form classes under full SBB for a supportive environment. It focuses on building social-emotional competencies through CCE lessons and service learning projects to ease the adjustment.
Source: https://yishuntownsec.moe.edu.sg/co-curriculum/cce/

What are the school fees for Yishun Town Secondary School?
Specific school fee details are not directly listed, but as a government school, monthly fees are standard for Singapore citizens, with financial assistance available via the MOE Financial Assistance Scheme. Parents should check the linked fees page or contact the school for exact amounts and eligibility.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=Yishun%20Town%20Secondary%20School

What is a typical school day like at Yishun Town Secondary School?
Information on a typical school day is not available on the official websites. As a single-session school, it likely follows standard MOE timings from around 7:30 AM to 2:30 PM, including lessons, CCAs, and breaks; contact the school for precise schedules.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=Yishun%20Town%20Secondary%20School

What facilities does Yishun Town Secondary School have?
The school features an indoor gymnasium, air-conditioned multipurpose hall, conference rooms, and specialized labs for subjects like Science and Design & Technology. It also includes an artificial football field shared with a neighboring primary school, supporting sports and outdoor activities.
Source: https://numberoneproperty.com/yishun-town-secondary-school/ Parents are advised to visit the school or contact for a tour.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=Yishun%20Town%20Secondary%20School

What is the Internationalisation Programme at Yishun Town Secondary School?
The Internationalisation Programme aims to equip students with knowledge and skills to become global citizens through cross-cultural learning and appreciation of diverse cultures. It includes overseas trips, expeditions, and service learning projects to foster respect and global awareness.
Source: https://yishuntownsec.moe.edu.sg/programmes/internationalisationprogramme/

What achievements has Yishun Town Secondary School received?
The school has earned the Singapore Best Practices for Teaching and Learning Award, Quality Class in 2009, and autonomous status in 2010. It also received the Best Practices Award for Staff Welfare in 2011, with students achieving awards like the Lee Kuan Yew Award for Outstanding Normal Course Students.
Source: https://yishuntownsec.moe.edu.sg/achievements/outstanding-achievements/

What are the school rules and uniform policy at Yishun Town Secondary School?Students must adhere to rules on attire, including the school uniform or PE attire consisting of YTSS PE T-shirt, shorts, and appropriate shoes. Consequences for infractions are outlined, emphasizing proper grooming and behavior to maintain discipline. For full details, refer to the rules document.
Source: https://www.yishuntownsec.moe.edu.sg/files/YTSS_Rules_and_Consequences_2025_.pdf

How can parents get involved in Yishun Town Secondary School?
Information on parent involvement is not explicitly detailed on the official websites. Parents can engage through events like parent-teacher meetings or by following the school’s social media for updates; contact the school for opportunities in support groups or volunteering.
Source: https://yishuntownsec.moe.edu.sg/contact-us/

Does Yishun Town Secondary School offer Direct School Admission (DSA)?
Information on DSA is not available on the official websites. As an autonomous school, it may offer DSA for talents in sports, arts, or leadership; parents should check the MOE DSA portal or contact the school for application details.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=Yishun%20Town%20Secondary%20School

What is the vision, mission, and values of Yishun Town Secondary School?
The school’s vision is to provide a well-rounded education, with a mission to develop the heart, body, mind, and soul of students. Values include integrity, respect, gratitude, and resilience, as reflected in programmes promoting confident leaders, active citizens, and global thinkers.
Source: https://yishuntownsec.moe.edu.sg/about-us/permalink/

What special programmes does Yishun Town Secondary School offer for character development?
The Character & Citizenship Education (CCE) programme equips students with knowledge, skills, and values through process drama, values lessons, and service learning projects. It aims to nurture passionate learners who are critical thinkers and responsible global citizens, aligning with secondary-level character education.
Source: https://yishuntownsec.moe.edu.sg/co-curriculum/cce/

You may want to check out other secondary schools in Singapore below:

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The Importance of Mathematics and OMT

Mathematics is a cornerstone of education, equipping students with critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills essential for academic success and everyday life. At YTSS, the rigorous mathematics curriculum, supported by a nurturing environment, encourages students to excel in this vital subject.

For parents seeking to further enhance their child’s mathematical proficiency, Odyssey Math Tuition (OMT) is an excellent resource. OMT offers specialized primary school math tuition, secondary school math tuition, and junior college math tuition, delivered by experienced math tutors who make learning engaging and effective. Whether your child is building foundational skills or tackling advanced concepts, OMT provides personalized support to help them succeed. Visit https://odysseymathtuition.com/ to learn more about how OMT can empower your child’s mathematical journey.

Disclaimer: All information provided here has been compiled from publicly available sources. While we have made every effort to ensure accuracy, we do not guarantee that the information is complete or error-free. We disclaim any liability for inaccuracies or omissions. If you find any errors or have concerns about the content, please let us know so we can address them promptly.