A new Institute of Policy Studies survey reveals that Singapore parents increasingly prioritize social and emotional development in their children's schooling but continue to emphasize academic performance and results.
- More parents favor holistic growth in education alongside traditional academics.
- Concerns over children’s future potential and right school choice persist.
- Parental stress over exams and homework has eased compared to 2016.
What happened
The Institute of Policy Studies conducted a nationwide survey from May to August 2026 involving 1,500 parents of primary school children in Singapore. The study explored parental attitudes toward aspects such as the education system, school selection, stress related to schooling, and tuition. It also compared these insights to a similar survey from 2016 to identify trends over the past decade.
Results indicated that overall confidence in Singapore’s education system remains high, with over 90% rating it positively. While parents still regard academic performance as important, there has been a noticeable shift toward valuing factors that support social-emotional growth and character development. For example, many more parents now see the value of allowing children to learn from failure and emphasize the importance of caring teachers and schools aligned with their child’s personality.
Why it feels good
The study shows a reduction in the percentage of parents who feel that the education system causes unnecessary stress—from 76.3% in 2016 down to 68.7% in 2026. This indicates an easing of anxieties around homework and exam preparation, which can contribute to a healthier schooling experience for children.
Additionally, the growing emphasis on holistic qualities like character, discipline, and a school's fit with a child's preferences suggests parents are fostering a more balanced approach. This can lead to more nurturing environments where children can thrive both intellectually and emotionally, reducing pressure and encouraging broader life skills.
What to enjoy or watch next
Parents and educators can take heart from the evolving mindset that increasingly values the full spectrum of a child’s development. It will be interesting to see how schools adapt their programs to support social-emotional learning and character-building alongside academic rigour.
Looking ahead, more communication and resources to help parents understand the diverse education pathways in Singapore can further ease concerns about missing out on the ‘right’ school. Embracing the variety of options might help families feel more confident and less anxious about their children's futures.