Integrated Programme The Integrated Programme (IP) was introduced in 2004 as an alternative model for upper secondary and junior college education. Three IP models are offered: the six- year IP model, starting at Secondary 1 (the terminal qualification for which is the International Baccalaureate Diploma or the ‘A’ Level Examination); the Secondary 1 to Junior College model (the terminal qualification of which is the GCE ‘A’ Level Examination); and the four- year high school model (the terminal qualification of which is the GCE ‘A’ Level Examination).

The IP is designed to cater to the top 10 per cent of each cohort, who are expected to enter university. Compared to the usual school curricula, the syllabi for IP are broader- based and more multidisciplinary. In- depth research, project work, independent study, industrial attachments and overseas tie- ups complement traditional teaching methods. This approach is not meant for the general student populace, who continue in the highly structured education programme leading to GCE ‘O’ levels, followed by two years in junior college or three years at a polytechnic.

Currently offered at seven schools, the IP has a fallout rate of less than 10 per cent. Each school runs its own tailored IP, and independent schools have full discretionary admission rights; selection procedures include interviews and aptitude tests. The IP schools charge fees of $200– $450 per month.