Understanding Full Subject-Based Banding (Full SBB)

Understanding Full Subject-Based Banding (Full SBB)

Singapore’s education system continues to evolve to better support students with diverse strengths and learning needs. One of the most significant changes at the secondary level is the introduction of Full Subject-Based Banding (Full SBB). This approach replaces the traditional streaming system and represents a shift towards more flexible, student-centred learning.

This blog post explains what Full SBB is, how it differs from the past secondary school syllabus and structure, and what both students and parents should look out for.

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What Is Full Subject-Based Banding (Full SBB)?

Full Subject-Based Banding allows secondary school students to take subjects at different levels based on their strengths, rather than being placed into a single academic stream.

Under Full SBB:

• Students no longer belong to fixed streams such as Express, Normal (Academic), or Normal (Technical)

• Subjects are offered at three levels:

  • G3 (similar to the former Express level)

  • G2 (similar to former Normal Academic)

  • G1 (similar to former Normal Technical)

• A student may take a mix of subjects across different levels, depending on ability and readiness

The aim is to allow every student to learn at an appropriate pace while still being part of a common school community.

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How Full SBB Differs from the Past Secondary School System

1. From Fixed Streams to Flexible Subject Levels

Previously, students were placed into a single stream based largely on PSLE results. This meant:

• All subjects were taken at the same academic level

• Movement between streams was limited

• Students could feel labelled early in their secondary school journey

With Full SBB:

• Streaming is removed

• Students can excel in strong subjects while receiving more support in others

• Academic pathways are more flexible and personalised

2. A Common Curriculum and Shared School Experience

In the past, students from different streams often:

• Had separate classes

• Followed different timetables

• Had limited interaction with peers from other streams

Under Full SBB, students:

• Share common curriculum subjects, co-curricular activities (CCAs), and school programmes

• Learn and interact with peers of varying strengths

• Develop social skills, empathy, and confidence in diverse settings

3. Greater Emphasis on Growth and Progress

The older system tended to focus on placement and end results. Full SBB places stronger emphasis on:

• Continuous progress

• Opportunities to move up subject levels when ready

• Recognising effort, improvement, and resilience

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What Students Should Look Out For

1. Increased Responsibility for Learning

With greater flexibility comes greater responsibility. Students need to:

• Understand their strengths and areas for improvement

• Manage different subject demands and expectations

• Stay organised when taking subjects at different levels

2. Confidence and Mindset

Students may worry about being judged based on subject levels. It is important to:

• Focus on personal progress rather than comparisons

• Understand that subject levels reflect readiness, not potential

• Build confidence by setting achievable learning goals

3. Time Management Skills

Different subject levels may move at different paces. Good study habits and time management are key to coping well under Full SBB.

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What Parents Should Look Out For

1. Shifting the Focus from Labels to Learning

Parents play a crucial role in shaping attitudes. Under Full SBB, it is important to:

• Avoid comparing children based on subject levels

• Reinforce the idea that every child learns differently

• Celebrate effort, improvement, and perseverance

2. Supporting Emotional Well-Being

As students adjust to the new system, parents should watch for:

• Signs of stress or anxiety

• Changes in motivation or confidence

• The need for encouragement and reassurance

Open communication and emotional support are just as important as academic guidance.

3. Working with the School

Parents are encouraged to:

• Communicate regularly with teachers

• Understand subject placement decisions and progression criteria

• Support the school’s efforts in helping students move at an appropriate pace

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Conclusion

Full Subject-Based Banding marks a meaningful shift away from rigid streaming towards a more inclusive and flexible education system. By allowing students to take subjects at levels that suit their strengths, Full SBB supports deeper learning, confidence-building, and long-term growth.

For both students and parents, success under Full SBB lies in embracing flexibility, focusing on progress rather than labels, and working closely with schools to support each child’s unique learning journey.