Understanding the Role of Posting Groups in Full SBB
Since 2024, the Normal (Technical), Normal (Academic), and Express streams have been replaced by Full Subject-Based Banding (Full SBB). Instead of the traditional streams, students are now assigned to posting groups 1, 2, and 3. These groups guide the initial subject levels a student can take at the start of Secondary One.
Posting groups 1, 2, and 3 correspond to the standards of the previous N(T), N(A), and Express streams, respectively. Upon receiving their PSLE results, students are also informed of their posting group, which will be used to guide their secondary school choices and the initial subject levels they will start with.
How Posting Groups Determine Your Child’s Subject Levels
Your child’s posting group and subject levels are determined by their PSLE Achievement Level (AL) scores for each subject.
PSLE SCORE RANGE |
POSTING GROUP |
SUBJECT LEVELS |
4 – 20 |
3 |
Most subjects are offered at a G3 level. |
21 – 22 |
2 or 3 |
Students have the option to study most subjects at a G2 or G3 level. |
23 -24 |
2 |
Most subjects are offered at a G2 level. |
25 |
1 or 2 |
Students have the option to study most subjects at a G1 or G2 level. |
26 – 30 (with AL7 or better in EL and MA) |
1 |
Most subjects are offered at a G1 level. |
While your child’s initial posting group sets their starting point, they have the flexibility to adjust their subject levels during promotion periods, which typically occurs after the exams. These adjustments are made based on their academic performance and learning needs.
Adjusting Subject Levels: Moving to a More Demanding Level
If eligible, students may be offered the opportunity to study core subjects like English, Mathematics, and Science at a more challenging level.
CURRENT SUBJECT LEVELS |
PSLE GRADE OF SUBJECT |
OFFERED SUBJECT LEVELS |
G2 |
AL5 or better | G3 |
G1 |
AL 5 or better |
G2 / G3 |
G1 | AL 6 |
G2 |
From Secondary 2, students can also opt to study Humanities subjects (like Geography, History, and Literature) at a more demanding level based on their performance and interest during Secondary 1.
CURRENT HUMANITIES SUBJECT LEVEL |
HUMANITIES SUBJECTS | SCHOOL-BASED ASSESSMENT | ABLE TO PROMOTE TO |
G2 |
Geography, History, Literature |
Demonstrated aptitude and interest in specific subject |
May promote to G3 for Geography, History, and/or Literature |
G1 | Humanities (Social Studies) / Humanities Exposure Modules in Geography, History, and Literature | Demonstrated aptitude in English and G1 Humanities |
May promote to G2 for Geography, History, and/or Literature |
Adjusting the Subject Levels: Moving to a Less Demanding Level
For students who took English, Mathematics, and/or Science at the Foundation level at PSLE, they may choose to take them at a less demanding level (e.g., G2), depending on their performance and consultation with their schools.
Students facing extreme difficulties with their Mother Tongue Languages (MTL) may also have the option to take G1 or G2 MTL, a less demanding level, based on the following criteria.
CURRENT MTL SUBJECT LEVELS |
PSLE GRADE (STANDARD MTL) | PSLE GRADE (FOUNDATION MTL) | OFFERED SUBJECT LEVELS |
G3 |
AL 6 | AL A | G2 |
G3 | AL 7-8 | AL B-C |
G1 or G2 |
G2 | AL 7-8 | AL B-C |
G1 |
Greater Flexibility in Learning Through Posting Adjustments
With the introduction of Full SBB, posting groups empower students to adjust their subject levels based on their strengths, interests, and academic performance. This increased flexibility allows them to progress at their own pace, with opportunities to move between levels as they grow more confident and competent in their subjects.
If your child starts a subject at the G2 level and performs consistently well, they may be offered the opportunity to take the subject at the G3 level, providing further academic challenge, all within the framework of their posting group.
The Impact of Posting Groups on Academic Progress
Posting groups in Full SBB allow students to start at a subject level aligned with their abilities while offering the flexibility to adjust as needed. Whether a student is placed in G1, G2, or G3, the system is designed to support their academic growth and tailor their learning experience based on individual performance and needs.
Still Worried About Your Child’s Transition to Secondary 1?
Do you still have concerns about how Full SBB will impact your child? Are you worried about their transition from Primary 6 to Secondary 1?
At Blue3 Academy, our dedicated teachers are here to support both you and your child during this important transition. Our classes are specifically designed to facilitate a smooth adjustment to the new environment and curriculum, ensuring that both you and your child can navigate this challenging period with confidence. Drop us a call or WhatsApp us at 9616 0312 today to find out more!