Teachers could focus on fewer duties beyond classroom teaching to address workload: Desmond Lee

Singapore's Education Minister Desmond Lee has announced plans to study reducing teachers' workload by allowing them to focus on two of their three major responsibilities beyond classroom teaching, which currently include form teacher duties, co-curricular activities (CCAs), and committee work. During a recent seminar, Lee explained that teachers often find it challenging to switch between these responsibilities, affecting their mental bandwidth and ability to provide strong classroom practices and engage with students.

The ministry plans to test this approach in six schools starting in January 2027, with St Anthony’s Canossian, Woodgrove and Zhangde primary schools, as well as Commonwealth, Deyi and Jurongville secondary schools, participating. The pilot aims to strengthen students' development and give teachers more time and space to teach. Lee also highlighted the ministry's efforts to support teachers by increasing allied educators, administrative staffing, and the use of digital tools.

These changes will help reduce routine work for teachers. The pilot will also explore adapting existing school spaces to support various learning methods, such as movable furniture and spaces for whole-class and small-group activities. The ministry is revising its curriculum to emphasize inquiry-based learning and learning together, focusing on students' ability to apply knowledge, tackle real-world problems, and take ownership of their learning.

Lee mentioned examples where students at Queenstown Secondary School and Greendale Secondary School applied their learning to practical projects. Additionally, MOE is reviewing marking practices and considering how technology can support feedback to further promote student ownership of their learning.