Singapore is widely recognised for its inclusive approach to education, and this is no different when it comes to supporting children with special educational needs (SEN). Whether your child has autism, intellectual disabilities, sensory impairments, or multiple disabilities, there are specialised schools across the island designed to provide them with the right environment, resources, and educational support.
In this blog, we’ll explore the different types of special education (SPED) schools available in Singapore, categorised by the primary diagnosed condition of the child.
1. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) – No Intellectual Impairment
Children with ASD who do not have intellectual impairments can benefit from schools that follow the National Curriculum with additional support structures.
Schools include:
- Pathlight School (Ang Mo Kio & Tampines)
Pathlight provides a mainstream academic curriculum integrated with life skills training.
(Tampines campus opens January 2025) - St. Andrew’s Mission School (Clementi)
Currently in Bukit Batok; permanent move to Clementi by 2031. - Pathlight School 3 (Punggol)
Temporary campus in Ang Mo Kio; moving to Punggol by 2032. - Anglo-Chinese School (Academy)
Temporarily located at Teck Whye; permanent Tengah campus ready by 2031.
2. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) – With Intellectual Impairment
These schools offer adapted curricula, focusing on both academic and functional skills.
Schools include:
- APSN Chaoyang & Tanglin Schools (Ang Mo Kio)
(Tanglin School relocating from Alexandra Road by 2026) - APSN Katong School (Bedok)
- Eden School (Bukit Batok)
- Grace Orchard School (Jurong)
(New campus ready by 2029) - Maitri School (Pasir Ris)
(Relocating from Eunos by 2028) - St. Andrew’s Autism School (Marine Parade)
- AWWA Schools (Bedok & Napiri)
- MINDS Schools across locations such as Towner Gardens, Fernvale Gardens, Woodlands Gardens
- Rainbow Centre Schools in Queenstown, Yishun, and Sembawang
3. Mild Intellectual Disability (MID)
These schools support children with mild learning challenges, focusing on academic development and vocational skills.
Schools include:
- APSN Schools (Chaoyang, Tanglin, Katong, Delta Senior)
- Grace Orchard School (Jurong)
- Metta School (Tampines)
4. Moderate to Severe Intellectual Disability (MSID)
Designed for children who require more intensive support with daily living and learning.
Schools include:
- MINDS Schools
- Towner Gardens (Bedok)
- Lee Kong Chian Gardens (Queenstown)
- Fernvale Gardens (Sengkang)
- Woodlands Gardens (Woodlands)
5. Multiple Disabilities (MD)
For children with more than one diagnosed condition (e.g., physical and intellectual disabilities).
Schools include:
- AWWA School @ Napiri (Hougang)
- Cerebral Palsy Alliance Singapore Schools
- West Campus (Jurong)
- East Campus (Pasir Ris)
- Rainbow Centre (Margaret Drive)
6. Sensory Impairment
For children with visual and/or hearing impairments.
School:
- Lighthouse School (Toa Payoh)
Caters to children with visual or hearing loss, and offers a bilingual and tactile approach.
Admission & Placement
The admission process typically involves a referral from the Ministry of Education (MOE) in collaboration with medical professionals. Each SPED school has its own application and assessment process, so parents are encouraged to visit the school websites or contact them directly for timelines and placement guidance.
Final Thoughts
Every child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive in an environment suited to their unique needs. Singapore’s SPED system provides a robust framework for families seeking the right fit for their child’s educational journey.
If you’re a parent navigating this process, know that you’re not alone. There are many resources and professionals ready to support you. Always visit the schools, speak with the educators, and stay informed about the latest developments in special education.