Navigating Secondary School Choices: Why Clementi Town Secondary School Stands Out in 2025

Hey there, parents. If you’re knee-deep in PSLE results and staring at that all-important secondary school posting, I get it—it’s a big moment. You’ve poured so much into your child’s primary years, and now it’s about finding a place that feels right for their next chapter. That’s where schools like Clementi Town Secondary School come in. As one of the top secondary schools in Singapore 2025, it’s earned a solid reputation for blending strong academics with real character growth. In this Clementi Town Secondary School review, we’ll break down what makes it a smart pick, from admissions to daily life, so you can make an informed call.

School Overview

Clementi Town Secondary School, often called CTSS, opened its doors in 1980 as a government co-educational school in the heart of Clementi. Right from the start, it aimed to build a supportive space for students from diverse backgrounds. Its motto, “Aspire and Grow,” captures that drive perfectly—pushing kids to reach higher while rooting them in steady progress. The vision? A vibrant community of learners who value every person and chase excellence with heart and hustle.

At its core, CTSS’s philosophy is about holistic growth: developing the desire to excel and the grit to bounce back from setbacks. It’s not just about grades—it’s nurturing resilient “Clementeens” who think deeply and lead kindly. What sets it apart? Programs like the Applied Learning Programme (ALP) in STEM—Emerging Technologies, called MARS (Mastery through Application and Research in STEM), where students dive into hands-on tech projects. There’s also the Learning for Life Programme (LLP) on Community Youth Leadership, focusing on service and real-world impact. No SAP status or IP track here, but its Full Subject-Based Banding (SBB) setup lets students mix subjects at different levels for a tailored fit.

Admission Process

Getting into CTSS starts with the basics: a solid PSLE score. For 2025, the indicative cut-off points (COP) for non-affiliated students are Posting Group 3: 9-13, Group 2: 21-23, and Group 1: 25-28. Affiliated kids (from linked primaries) get priority, so check that if it applies. But don’t overlook Direct School Admission (DSA)—it’s a game-changer for talents in sports, performing arts, leadership/uniformed groups, or even STEM. Categories include badminton whizzes, drama stars, or budding leaders in NCC or NPCC.

A few tips to ease the process? Hit up their open house in May or June—it’s a low-key way to see the vibe and chat with staff. Talk to current parents or students on forums for honest takes, and get a grip on SBB: it means no more streaming, just flexible banding to match your child’s strengths. For O-Level prep, CTSS sticks to that track, so focus on building a balanced profile early.

Here’s a quick table on DSA options:

DSA Category	Focus Areas
Sports	Badminton, Basketball, etc.
Performing Arts	Drama, Dance, Band
Leadership/Uniformed	NCC, NPCC, Guides
STEM	Science/Tech projects

Curriculum and Academic Excellence

CTSS delivers a robust O-Level curriculum that’s all about balance and depth. Core subjects cover English, Mathematics (both Elementary and Additional Math), Sciences, Social Studies, and Physical Education, with electives like Art, Principles of Accounts, or pure Sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Biology). Humanities options include Geography or History paired with SS, and there’s bilingual support for Chinese, Malay, or Tamil at various levels. The SBB system shines here, letting students take, say, A-Math at a higher band while easing up on another subject.

Academically, CTSS punches above its weight. In national rankings, it hovers around 42nd based on 2024 PSLE data, a nod to consistent performance. The 2024 O-Level cohort crushed it: 86% distinction in Pure Chemistry, 58% in A-Math, and 100% passes across pure sciences. They’ve snagged awards like 1st place in the All Singapore Secondary Mathematics Competition for Upper Sec Normal Academic in 2023, plus kudos for bilingual programs and leadership initiatives. Alumni often credit the school’s STEM push for paths in engineering or tech—think real-world research that sparks curiosity.

Facilities and Extracurricular Activities

Walk into CTSS, and you’ll find spaces built for doing, not just sitting. Smart classrooms with interactive tech, a stocked library for deep dives, dedicated science and computer labs, a sports complex for team drills, and arts studios buzzing with creativity. Recent upgrades include enhanced STEM labs for that MARS program, keeping things cutting-edge without the flash.

CCAs are where the magic happens—over 20 options to build skills and bonds. They tie straight into holistic growth and even DSA spots.

Sports: Badminton, Basketball (Boys), Netball (Girls), Football (Boys), Volleyball (Boys), Wushu, Outdoor Adventure.
Uniformed Groups: Girl Guides (Girls), NCC Land (Boys), NCDCC, NPCC.
Performing Arts: Concert Band, Modern Dance, English Drama, Guzheng Ensemble.
Clubs & Societies: Science and Technology, Art and Crafts, Infocomm (Media Production).

These aren’t add-ons; they’re character builders. A kid in robotics club might land a DSA while learning teamwork—win-win for resumes and resilience.

Student Life and School Culture

Life at CTSS feels like a steady rhythm: single-session days mean full, focused time without the drag. Class sizes hover around 40, with teacher-student ratios that keep things personal—think dedicated form teachers for pastoral chats. The culture? Warm and inclusive, with values like respect and responsibility woven in. Anti-bullying is proactive, via assemblies and peer support, and well-being checks are routine. It’s all about fostering leaders who care—resilience workshops help kids handle exam stress or friend drama.

Transition tips? Start strong with routines: a quiet study hour nightly beats cramming. Encourage CCA trial weeks to find that spark, and chat openly about the workload jump—it’s normal, and CTSS’s counselors are there for it.

Location and Contact

Tucked at 10 Clementi Avenue 3, Singapore 129904, CTSS is a breeze for west-side families. Hop off at Clementi MRT (EW line, 5-min walk) or grab buses 7, 65, or 151 along Clementi Ave 3. Nearby? West Coast Park for post-school unwind, or malls like Clementi Mall for quick bites. Commute-friendly, especially if you’re in Jurong or Boon Lay.

Reach out at 6777 7362, [email protected], or clementitownsec.moe.edu.sg—staff are quick to reply.

The Importance of Mathematics in Secondary Education

As you weigh options among the best secondary schools in Singapore, remember math’s quiet power. It’s the backbone of O-Level success—nailing E-Math and A-Math opens doors to STEM careers, sharpens problem-solving, and boosts brainpower for life. At CTSS, with its math competition wins, it’s clear they get this. But if extra support calls, look into secondary school math tuition or A-Math tuition tailored for O-Level math tuition needs—a good math tutor can turn “I can’t” into confidence. In this secondary school admission guide, pairing a spot like CTSS with smart O-Level preparation tips? That’s how you set your child up to thrive.

FAQ’s about Clementi Town Secondary School

Is Clementi Town Secondary School a good school?
Clementi Town Secondary School is a government co-ed school offering a comprehensive curriculum with subjects like Additional Mathematics, Biology, and Chemistry, as well as specialized programmes such as the Applied Learning Programme in STEM and Learning for Life Programme in Community Youth Leadership. It supports student development through various CCAs and has special educational needs officers available. Parents often consider it a solid choice for holistic education, but goodness is subjective—contact the school for more on achievements or visit for open houses.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=clementi-town-secondary-school

Is Clementi Town Secondary School a co-ed school?
Yes, Clementi Town Secondary School is a co-ed government school, welcoming both boys and girls in a single-session environment.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=clementi-town-secondary-school

What is the ranking of Clementi Town Sec School?
Information not available on the official websites, as the Ministry of Education does not publish official rankings for secondary schools in Singapore to promote holistic development over competition. Suggest contacting the school for performance indicators.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=clementi-town-secondary-school

What is the cut-off point for Clementi Town Sec School?
The cut-off points for non-affiliated students based on the previous year’s PSLE scores are Posting Group 3: 9-13, Posting Group 2: 21-23, and Posting Group 1: 25-28. These reflect the score of the last student admitted and are finalized after each year’s Secondary 1 posting exercise. Check the MOE SchoolFinder for the latest updates on admission criteria.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=clementi-town-secondary-school – Admission Information Section

What subjects are offered at Clementi Town Secondary School?
The school offers a wide range of subjects including English Language, Mathematics, Science, Additional Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Humanities (Social Studies, Geography, History), Chinese/Malay/Tamil Languages (including Higher levels), Art, Computing, Design & Technology, and Physical Education. It supports O-Level preparation through Express, Normal (Academic), and Normal (Technical) streams with subject-based banding options. For the most current subject combinations, refer to the curriculum updates on the school site.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=clementi-town-secondary-school – Subjects Offered Section

What CCAs are available at Clementi Town Secondary School for character development?
CCAs include sports like Badminton, Basketball, Football, Netball, Volleyball, and Wushu; performing arts such as Concert Band, Guzheng Ensemble, Modern Dance, and English Drama; uniformed groups like Girl Guides, NCC (Land), NCDCC, and NPCC; and clubs including Science and Technology, Art and Crafts, Infocomm Technology (Media Production), and Outdoor Adventure. These activities foster leadership, teamwork, and resilience. Explore the school website for schedules and enrollment details.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=clementi-town-secondary-school – CCAs Section

What is the Applied Learning Programme (ALP) at Clementi Town Secondary School?
The ALP focuses on STEM – Emerging Technologies under the MARS (Mastery through Application and Research in STEM) initiative, providing hands-on learning in areas like robotics and innovation to prepare students for future careers. It integrates with the curriculum to enhance problem-solving skills.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=clementi-town-secondary-school – Applied Learning Programme Section

What is the Learning for Life Programme (LLP) at Clementi Town Secondary School?
The LLP emphasizes Community Youth Leadership, encouraging students to engage in service projects and leadership roles to build character and civic responsibility. It complements CCAs for holistic development.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=clementi-town-secondary-school – Learning for Life Programme Section

Is Clementi Town Secondary School affiliated with any primary school?
No, Clementi Town Secondary School is non-affiliated, meaning there are no priority admission bonuses for students from specific primary schools. Admissions are based on PSLE scores or DSA.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=clementi-town-secondary-school – Admission Information Section

What are the school fees for Clementi Town Secondary School?
As a government secondary school, fees follow MOE guidelines: Singapore Citizens pay S$5 monthly school fee plus S$10 miscellaneous fee; Permanent Residents pay S$440 school fee plus S$20 miscellaneous; International Students (ASEAN) pay S$840 school fee plus S$20 miscellaneous; and non-ASEAN pay S$1,600 school fee plus S$20 miscellaneous (fees exclude GST for citizens/PR, include for internationals). Financial assistance is available via schemes like the MOE Financial Assistance Scheme—apply through the school.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/financial-matters/fees – School Fees Section

How to apply via DSA to Clementi Town Secondary School?
Information not available on the official websites. Suggest contacting the school directly for details on Direct School Admission categories, such as talents in sports or leadership, and the application process via the MOE DSA portal.
Source: https://www.clementitownsec.moe.edu.sg/admissions/direct-school-admission

What facilities does Clementi Town Secondary School have?
Information not available on the official websites. Suggest visiting the school or contacting them for details on labs, sports fields, and other amenities supporting curriculum and CCAs.
Source: https://www.clementitownsec.moe.edu.sg/about-us/school-facilities

What are the school hours at Clementi Town Secondary School?
Information not available on the official websites, but government secondary schools typically operate from around 7:30am to 1:30pm or 2:30pm, with variations for CCAs. Contact the school for the exact schedule.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=clementi-town-secondary-school

Does Clementi Town Secondary School implement Full Subject-Based Banding?
Yes, Clementi Town Secondary School is one of the pilot schools for Full Subject-Based Banding (FSBB), allowing students to take subjects at different levels (G1, G2, G3) based on strengths, replacing traditional streaming for more flexible learning pathways. This supports transitions to O-Levels. Check the school for implementation details.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=clementi-town-secondary-school – Curriculum Section

What is the history of Clementi Town Secondary School?
Information not available on the official websites. Suggest contacting the school for details on its establishment and milestones.
Source: https://moehc.moe.edu.sg/school-histories/clementi-town-sec/

How to contact Clementi Town Secondary School?
You can reach the school at phone number 6777 7362 or email [email protected]. The address is 10 Clementi Avenue 3, Singapore 129904.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=clementi-town-secondary-school – Contact Information Section

What support is available for special educational needs at Clementi Town Secondary School?
The school has Special Educational Needs Officers to support students with mild special needs, providing learning and behavioral assistance integrated with the curriculum and CCAs.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=clementi-town-secondary-school – Special Educational Needs Section

What are the O-Level subjects at Clementi Town Secondary School?
O-Level subjects include Additional Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Principles of Accounts, Literature in English, Humanities (Social Studies with Geography or History), Higher Chinese/Malay/Tamil, and more, offered through subject-based banding for Express stream students. Normal stream students can progress to O-Levels via tailored pathways. Visit the curriculum page for combinations.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=clementi-town-secondary-school – Subjects Offered Section

What character development programmes are at Clementi Town Secondary School?
Character development is fostered through the Learning for Life Programme in Community Youth Leadership, Values in Action (VIA), and CCAs like uniformed groups and service clubs, emphasizing responsibility and empathy. CCE (Character and Citizenship Education) is also part of the curriculum.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=clementi-town-secondary-school – Subjects Offered and LLP Sections

What overseas trips or exchanges does Clementi Town Secondary School offer?
Information not available on the official websites. Suggest contacting the school for details on any international programmes or trips for cultural exchange and character building.
Source: https://www.clementitownsec.moe.edu.sg

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.

Odyssey Math Tuition, a helpful spot for secondary school math tuition made to support students through secondary years. It’s run by Principal Math Tutor Mr. Justin Tan, who started it in 2013 using his know-how from fixing common math problems for kids. Odyssey Math Tuition offers focused secondary 1 math tuition, secondary 2 math tuition, secondary 3 math tuition, and secondary 4 math tuition in easy-going face-to-face math tuition classes or 247 online math tuition. Mr. Tan built Odyssey Math Tuition’s custom math curriculum that complements Singapore’s Ministry of Education (MOE) math lessons, adding clever test tips, fun tools, and practice on main topics like algebra, geometry, and trigonometry to get students ready and winning at O-Levels and N-Levels with Odyssey Math Tuition’s unique approach to math tuition.

The Importance of Mathematics and OMT

Mathematics is a cornerstone of education, fostering logical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills that are essential for success in academics and beyond. At CTSS, mathematics is a key focus, supported by initiatives like the ALP in STEM, which emphasizes practical applications and research. The school’s Mathematics W1COL Award in 2017 is a testament to its commitment to excellence in this subject.

For students who need additional support to excel in mathematics, Odyssey Math Tuition (OMT) is an excellent resource. OMT provides specialized primary school math tuition, secondary school math tuition, and junior college math tuition, tailored to meet the needs of students at different educational levels. With experienced math tutors and a proven track record, OMT helps students build confidence and achieve their academic goals. Parents can explore OMT’s offerings at odysseymathtuition.com to learn how their child can benefit from personalized tutoring.

CTSS, with its rich history, academic excellence, and diverse opportunities, is a nurturing environment for your child’s growth. Combined with resources like OMT, your child can thrive academically and personally, preparing them for a bright future.

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.