Navigating Secondary School Choices: A Spotlight on Catholic High School Secondary

As a parent, the post-PSLE period can feel like a whirlwind of emotions and decisions. You’ve supported your child through years of hard work, and now it’s time to find a secondary school that nurtures their potential while fostering growth in a supportive environment. Among the top secondary schools in Singapore 2025, Catholic High School Secondary stands out as a beacon of excellence. Renowned for its commitment to holistic development and bilingual education, this institution consistently earns praise in Catholic High School Secondary school reviews for blending academic rigor with character building. In this secondary school admission guide, we’ll explore why it’s a compelling choice for your family’s future.

School Overview

Established in 1935 by the late Rev. Fr. Edward Becheras, a French missionary, Catholic High School Secondary began humbly within the Church of Saints Peter and Paul, evolving into a cornerstone of Singapore’s educational landscape. As a government-aided autonomous Catholic boys’ school, it operates as a Special Assistance Plan (SAP) institution, emphasizing bilingualism in English and Chinese. The school’s motto, Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam (“For the Greater Glory of God”), reflects its educational philosophy of forming gentlemen-scholars who excel academically while embodying Catholic values like integrity, resilience, and service.

What sets Catholic High School Secondary apart from other best secondary schools in Singapore? Its unique affiliation with Catholic Junior College offers a seamless six-year Integrated Programme (IP) pathway, allowing high-achievers to bypass O-Levels for A-Levels. Additionally, niche programs like the Bicultural Studies Programme and Music Elective Programme cultivate global mindsets and artistic talents, making it ideal for boys seeking a well-rounded education.

Admission Process

Securing a spot at Catholic High School Secondary requires strategic preparation, especially with its competitive entry. The Catholic High School Secondary PSLE cut-off 2025 for the IP track stands at 5(D) to 7(M) for both affiliated and non-affiliated students, factoring in Higher Chinese Language (HCL) grades (D=Distinction, M=Merit, P=Pass). For the Posting Group 3 (O-Level) stream, affiliated applicants face 7(P) to 12, while non-affiliated range from 6(M) to 8(P). Affiliation priority goes to siblings or alumni children, so check eligibility early.

Direct School Admission (DSA) provides another avenue, with categories like basketball (for IP and express streams), leadership, and academics open from 7 May 2025 (11am) to 3 June 2025 (3pm)—free of charge. To boost your chances, attend the Open House on 17 May 2025 (9am–12pm) at the school campus, where you can tour facilities and chat with staff.

Here are practical O-Level preparation tips for parents:

Tip	Why It Helps
Gather feedback from current parents via online forums or alumni networks	Provides real insights into school fit beyond official stats.
Understand Full Subject-Based Banding (SBB)	Allows flexible subject levels based on strengths, reducing stress.
Prepare DSA portfolios early (e.g., sports achievements)	Highlights talents holistically, not just PSLE scores.
Attend virtual info sessions if physical visits are tough	Builds familiarity with the IP vs. O-Level tracks.

Appeals for the 2025 cohort open on PSLE Posting Results day and close 20 December.

Curriculum and Academic Excellence

Catholic High School Secondary’s curriculum aligns with MOE standards, offering both IP and O-Level pathways to cater to diverse learners. Core subjects include English, Mathematics (Elementary and Additional), Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics), and Humanities (History, Geography, Social Studies). Electives span bilingual options, with a strong emphasis on STEM and Chinese language under the SAP framework.

The school’s academic prowess is undeniable. Historically ranked in MOE’s Band 1 tables (pre-2012), it holds the prestigious School Distinction Award and School Excellence Award. Recent highlights include 3rd place in the Singapore Junior Chemistry Olympiad (2017) and strong showings in Biology and Math Olympiads. O-Level pass rates exceed national averages, with over 90% distinction rates in key subjects like Math and Sciences. Notable alumni include 20 President’s Scholars and leaders in business, politics, and arts, underscoring its role in nurturing future trailblazers.

Specialized initiatives like STEM labs and leadership modules enhance depth, preparing students for university and beyond.

Facilities and Extracurricular Activities

The Bishan campus boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including smart classrooms, a well-stocked library, advanced science and computer labs, a multipurpose sports complex, and dedicated arts studios—recently upgraded for hybrid learning. An auditorium supports performing arts, while green spaces promote well-being.

Co-Curricular Activities (CCAs) are vibrant, with over 30 options fostering holistic growth and DSA prospects. Categorized below:

Sports: Basketball, Softball, Track & Field, Table Tennis, Wushu, Volleyball, Floorball—building teamwork and discipline.
Uniformed Groups: NPCC, St. John Brigade, Scouts, NCC (Air & Land)—instilling leadership and resilience.
Performing Arts: Chinese Orchestra, Choir, Modern Dance, Chinese/English Drama, Concert Band—celebrated at Singapore Youth Festival.
Clubs & Societies: Robotics, Debate, Environmental, Math/Science Olympiad—aligning with academic passions and character development.

These CCAs not only enrich resumes but also create lifelong bonds, emphasizing values like perseverance.

Student Life and School Culture

At Catholic High School Secondary, student life thrives in a God-centred, caring culture where boys are “gentlemen in action.” Daily routines blend structured academics with faith-based reflections, supported by anti-bullying programs and inclusivity initiatives per MOE guidelines. With Singapore’s secondary PTR at 12:1, class sizes hover around 30–40, enabling personalized attention and pastoral care from dedicated form teachers.

Reviews highlight a resilient, brotherhood-driven environment, with resilience workshops and counseling fostering well-being. For the transition to secondary life, tips include:

Establish routines with planners for the heavier workload.
Encourage peer study groups to ease social adjustments.
Leverage school apps for homework tracking and parent updates.

This nurturing setup reassures parents that their sons will flourish.

Location and Contact

Nestled at 9 Bishan Street 22, Singapore 579767, the school is highly accessible—mere minutes from Bishan MRT (NS17/CC15) or a short bus ride (services 13, 52, 54, 88). Nearby parks and eateries make commutes family-friendly.

Reach out at:

Phone: 6458 2177 (Secondary)
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.catholichigh.moe.edu.sg

The Importance of Mathematics in Secondary Education

In the competitive landscape of top secondary schools in Singapore 2025, mathematics remains a cornerstone, especially at institutions like Catholic High School Secondary. As a foundational O-Level subject, E-Math and A-Math build problem-solving prowess essential for STEM careers, from engineering to data science. Beyond exams, math sharpens cognitive skills, resilience, and logical thinking—key to holistic success.

Parents often seek extra support; consider secondary school math tuition, A-Math tuition, or O-Level math tuition with a qualified math tutor to complement school efforts. At Catholic High, strong math programs paired with tuition can unlock your child’s potential, paving pathways to top universities and fulfilling futures. Ready to explore? Your journey starts with informed choices—Catholic High School Secondary awaits.

FAQ’s about Catholic High School Secondary

Is Catholic High School Secondary a good school?
Catholic High School Secondary is widely regarded as one of Singapore’s top schools, having received the School Distinction Award from the Ministry of Education for exemplary processes and holistic student development. It has produced numerous President’s Scholars and leaders in various sectors, with a strong emphasis on bilingualism, character building, and academic excellence. Parents often praise its rigorous programmes that prepare students for post-secondary success.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=Catholic%20High%20School%20Secondary

Is Catholic High School Secondary a co-ed school?
No, Catholic High School Secondary is an all-boys school, catering exclusively to male students in a single-session environment. This setup fosters a focused learning atmosphere aligned with its Catholic mission.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=Catholic%20High%20School%20Secondary

What is the ranking of Catholic High School Secondary Sec School?
Catholic High School Secondary was consistently ranked in Band 1 of the Ministry of Education’s academic rankings until such rankings were discontinued in 2012. It has earned the School Distinction Award for its outstanding practices and is recognized as a high-achieving autonomous school.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=Catholic%20High%20School%20Secondary

What is the cut-off point for Catholic High School Secondary Sec School?
The cut-off points for 2024 admission are as follows: For the Integrated Programme, affiliated students range from 5(D) to 7(M); for Posting Group 3, affiliated 7(P) to 12 and non-affiliated 6(M) to 8(P). These reflect the PSLE scores of the last admitted students and may vary annually.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=Catholic%20High%20School%20Secondary

What is the history of Catholic High School Secondary?
Catholic High School was founded in 1935 by Reverend Father Edward Becheras as a Sino-English Catholic school, initially operating from Queen Street. It expanded over the years, relocating to Bishan in 1992, and became a Special Assistance Plan school in 1979 to promote bilingual education. Today, it offers both O-Level and Integrated Programmes.
Source: http://www.catholichigh.moe.edu.sg/about/about-chs/history-and-philosophy/

Is Catholic High School Secondary an Integrated Programme school?
Yes, Catholic High School Secondary offers a six-year Integrated Programme (IP) in partnership with CHIJ St. Nicholas Girls’ School, Singapore Chinese Girls’ School, and Eunoia Junior College, allowing students to bypass O-Levels and proceed directly to A-Levels. The programme emphasizes enriched learning and holistic development.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=Catholic%20High%20School%20Secondary

Is Catholic High School Secondary a Special Assistance Plan (SAP) school?
Yes, Catholic High School Secondary is a SAP school, focusing on bilingual education in English and Chinese, with programmes like the Bicultural Studies Programme to cultivate cultural awareness and global perspectives. This enables top students to study both languages at first-language level.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=Catholic%20High%20School%20Secondary

What subjects are offered at Catholic High School Secondary for O-Levels?
Subjects include Art, Additional Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Chinese Language, English Language, Geography, Higher Chinese Language, History, Literature in Chinese, Literature in English, Mathematics, Music, Physics, and Humanities combinations like Social Studies with Geography or History. Offerings may vary by cohort.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=Catholic%20High%20School%20Secondary

What CCAs are available at Catholic High School Secondary for character development?
CCAs include sports like Basketball, Softball, Track and Field, Table Tennis, Wushu, Volleyball, and Floorball; uniformed groups such as NPCC, St John Brigade, Scouts, and NCC (Air/Land); and performing arts like Chinese Orchestra, Choir, Modern Dance, Chinese Drama, English Drama, and Concert Band. These activities foster leadership, resilience, and teamwork.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=Catholic%20High%20School%20Secondary

How to apply for Direct School Admission (DSA) to Catholic High School Secondary?
Applications for DSA-Sec are submitted via the online MOE DSA Portal from early May to early June, free of charge. Talents in areas like leadership, music, or sports are considered; successful applicants must meet Express course eligibility based on PSLE scores. Check the school website for specific talent areas and criteria.
Source: http://www.catholichigh.moe.edu.sg/prospective-students/Sec-Admission/direct-school-admission/

What are the school hours at Catholic High School Secondary?
School operates from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday to Friday, and is closed on weekends and public holidays. This schedule supports a full day of academic and co-curricular activities.
Source: http://www.catholichigh.moe.edu.sg/contact-us/

What are the school fees for Catholic High School Secondary?
Information not available on the official websites. For the latest fee details, including any miscellaneous fees, please contact the school directly at [email protected] or refer to the MOE financial matters page.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=Catholic%20High%20School%20Secondary

Is Catholic High School Secondary affiliated with a primary school?
Yes, Catholic High School Secondary is affiliated with its own primary section, offering affiliation bonuses for PSLE cut-off points. It also has affiliations with Catholic Junior College for post-secondary pathways.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=Catholic%20High%20School%20Secondary

What is the uniform policy at Catholic High School Secondary?
The uniform consists of a white shirt with green shorts (bermudas) for all levels, with long pants worn only for formal occasions. PE attire includes house T-shirts (in blue, yellow, green, or red) and blue pants, promoting comfort and school identity.
Source: http://www.catholichigh.moe.edu.sg/about/about-chs/values-and-purpose/

What is the mission and vision of Catholic High School Secondary?
The vision is to nurture leaders, gentlemen, and bilingual scholars of high integrity who are passionate about life, learning, and service. The mission is to establish the school as a distinction in innovative programmes, character building, and excellence, grounded in Christian values.
Source: http://www.catholichigh.moe.edu.sg/about/about-chs/values-and-purpose/

What is the Bicultural Studies Programme at Catholic High School Secondary?
The Bicultural Studies Programme develops students’ cross-cultural skills, global awareness, and bilingual proficiency through exposure to Eastern and Western perspectives on geopolitical, social, and economic issues. It is part of the SAP framework for character and values education.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=Catholic%20High%20School%20Secondary

What talent development programmes are available at Catholic High School Secondary?
Programmes include the Music Elective Programme, Bicultural Studies, and school-based Gifted Education, with opportunities in aesthetics, humanities, science, and leadership. Students can pursue passions like MEP or third languages, with assessments at Year 2 for progression.
Source: http://www.catholichigh.moe.edu.sg/secondary/Talent-Development/overview/

Are there overseas trips at Catholic High School Secondary?
Yes, the World Readiness Programme includes overseas trips, such as campus tours to places like Osaka University for scientific exposure and cultural immersion. These trips enhance global perspectives and are integrated into the curriculum for IP students.
Source: http://www.catholichigh.moe.edu.sg/dual-track-curriculum/Integrated-Programme/world-readiness-programme/

What facilities does Catholic High School Secondary have?
Facilities include indoor sports halls, multi-purpose halls, gyms, basketball and volleyball courts, a performing arts theatre, science labs, and an aviation milestones gallery. As a full school, it shares amenities like canteens and libraries with the primary section.
Source: http://www.catholichigh.moe.edu.sg/about/Our-CHS-Campus/

How does Catholic High School Secondary support transitions from primary to secondary education?
The school facilitates smooth transitions through its affiliated primary section, with programmes focusing on subject-based banding and orientation for new students. It emphasizes character education and bilingualism to ease adaptation, with support for diverse learning needs via mixed classes.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=Catholic%20High%20School%20Secondary

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

As a parent in Singapore with a kid in secondary school soon, you know how crucial it is to prep for the O-Level and N-Level exams—they’re like big doors that lead to your child’s favorite junior college or polytechnic, shaping their future jobs and dreams. Math is a superstar in these exams, carrying a lot of weight in the total scores, sharpening smart thinking and problem-solving skills that help in other subjects like physics and economics, and directly affecting chances for top streams or courses after secondary school. That’s why getting good at math early and sticking with it is key—to dodge low grades, grow tough for tests, and grab those high marks for the best spots.

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Summary

Mathematics is a cornerstone of education, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and logical reasoning—skills essential for academic success and future careers. At Catholic High School, the mathematics curriculum, enriched by programs like the Integrated Programme and School-based Gifted Education, challenges students to excel and apply their knowledge in real-world contexts.

To further support students, Odyssey Math Tuition (OMT) offers specialized tutoring for primary, secondary, and junior college levels. With experienced math tutors, OMT provides primary school math tuition, secondary school math tuition, and junior college math tuition, helping students build confidence and achieve excellence. Whether your child needs help with foundational concepts or advanced topics, OMT is dedicated to fostering a deep understanding and love for mathematics. Visit https://odysseymathtuition.com/ to learn how OMT can support 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.