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Maximum 4 students
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English tuition for CHIJ Secondary (Toa Payoh) students
Live online English tuition for CHIJ Secondary (Toa Payoh) students in secondary 1–4. Bring recent schoolwork and teacher feedback so our tutors can see where your child needs help and plan the lessons.
Secondary 1–4
Courses and years
National secondary English
Years 1–4
Bring recent schoolwork and the current topic list so we can choose a suitable class.
Study guide · 01
English tuition in Sec 1–2 and Sec 3–4: what changes?
In Secondary 1 and 2, students meet longer texts, unfamiliar vocabulary and ideas spread across several paragraphs. We help them follow the passage and use details to support an answer. Writing lessons focus on developing a paragraph and keeping a composition on track.
Short tasks help us see where a student needs help. Can they point to the words that support an answer? Explain why a paragraph is there? Rewrite an unclear sentence? Their answers show us whether to work on understanding, organisation or expression.
In Secondary 3 and 4, students practise complete responses and timed sections. We look for mistakes that keep appearing: an inference without evidence, a missing point in situational writing, or an oral answer that needs more explanation. The next task gives the student practice with that specific problem.
Study guide · 02
How to improve English comprehension: explain the evidence
A comprehension answer starts with the question. “What happened?” calls for information; “Why?” asks for a cause or reason; an inference requires an explanation supported by the text. Before writing, identify the relevant lines and decide what those lines establish. The evidence should fit the exact question, including any part that asks for the effect on a character or reader.
Vocabulary practice works best in context. Keep the sentence in which the word appears, write a meaning that fits that sentence and check how a replacement changes its tone. A word can have several meanings, and a memorised synonym can be unsuitable for the passage. For an own-words response, preserve the original relationship between ideas while changing the expression.
The task
Practice passage: “Maya read the acceptance letter twice, then placed it carefully beside her unfinished application forms.” What suggests that this letter matters to Maya?
Worked response
A supported answer: Reading it twice and setting it aside carefully suggest that Maya values the acceptance and gives it special attention.
The answer uses Maya’s two actions to explain why the letter matters. It stays within the information in the extract. With a longer passage, students should also check the surrounding sentences.
Study guide · 03
How to improve composition and situational writing
Composition practice needs a purpose beyond finishing the word count. For a narrative, decide what changes for the central character and which events cause that change. Give important moments enough space; a long introduction can leave the turning point rushed. For an argument, state a position that answers the question and build paragraphs around reasons that can be explained and tested.
Situational writing starts with audience, purpose and required information. A proposal to a school leader needs a clear recommendation and practical justification. An email to a friend may use a different tone. Plan the content requirements before drafting, then check that each one has been developed in a way that helps the reader act or understand.
Revise the ideas first: does the answer address the question, follow a clear order and explain its points? Then check sentence boundaries, tense, agreement, vocabulary and punctuation. Keep a short note of mistakes to watch for in the next piece of writing.
Study guide · 04
A practical weekly English revision routine
Spread practice across reading, writing and speaking. One short reading task can focus on explaining an inference; a writing task can develop one paragraph; a spoken response can practise giving a reason and a concrete example. These tasks are small enough to review closely. Occasional full papers or complete compositions then show whether the skills work together.
Practice between classes helps our tutors plan the next lesson. Students get instant marking on platform exercises and revisit earlier questions through spaced review. Tutors discuss writing and spoken responses with the student, including how they chose and explained their ideas.
Compare similar tasks your child has completed without help. Look for an inference they can explain, a paragraph with a well-supported point, or an oral answer that handles a follow-up question. Keep the school feedback alongside these attempts to see what still needs work.
Your class
Lessons and practice, every week
Class registration for the 2027 school year is open.
Trial
$30 subsidised trial rate
A dedicated trial session at a different timeslot is offered at a subsidised rate of $30. We’ll help you explore the available options.
Class format
Live online
Weekly duration
1.5 hours
Levels
Secondary 1–4
Between lessons
Subject practice on the DeepThink platform
Practice is included as part of the classes.
Registration
2027 school year
Open now. Request a trial class and we will message you to confirm the level and schedule.
Meet your tutor
Try a English class
Class registration for the 2027 school year is open. Bring recent schoolwork to help us plan a useful first lesson.
About CHIJ Secondary (Toa Payoh)
PSLE cut-off point for CHIJ Secondary (Toa Payoh)
MOE publishes the PSLE score of the first and the last student posted into each school at each posting group. Below are CHIJ Secondary (Toa Payoh)'s figures for the 2026 Secondary 1 intake — the 2025 PSLE cohort. The last student's score is what is usually meant by the school's cut-off point.
| Posting group | Non-affiliated | Affiliated |
|---|---|---|
| Posting Group 3 | AL 6–10 | AL 8–20 |
| Posting Group 2 | AL 21–22 | AL 21–25 |
| Posting Group 1 | AL 25–28 | AL 26–29 |
Cut-off points move by a few points from year to year, and not every student who met the cut-off was posted here — some are tie-broken out. Read these as a guide to where a school sits, not as a threshold to clear.
Actual 2026 Secondary 1 intake, from MOE School Finder — last verified on 12 August 2026. MOE School Finder ↗
About CHIJ Secondary (Toa Payoh)
CHIJ Secondary (Toa Payoh) is a government-aided autonomous Catholic girls' secondary school in Toa Payoh, Singapore. Founded in 1854, the school is the oldest of the 11 Convent of the Holy Infant Jesus (CHIJ) schools in Singapore. The school is currently recognised as a Centre of Excellence for Language and the Arts.
Founded: 1854
School Overview
CHIJ Secondary (Toa Payoh) is the oldest of the 11 Convent of the Holy Infant Jesus schools in Singapore, with origins dating back to 1854. It was established by French Sisters of the Congregation of the Holy Infant Jesus as a school for orphan girls, and has since grown into an autonomous, government-aided, all-girls Catholic secondary school located in Toa Payoh. The school's motto is "Simple in Virtue, Steadfast in Duty," reflecting its emphasis on developing women of integrity who contribute to their community with compassion.
The school follows a Christ-centred educational philosophy grounded in the values of truth, justice, freedom, and charity. CHIJ Secondary (Toa Payoh) is affiliated with CHIJ Primary (Toa Payoh) and Catholic Junior College, providing connected pathways for students progressing through these institutions. It also serves as the South Zone Centre of Excellence for Language and the Arts, with recognised programmes in performing arts and bilingual education.
Admission Process
Admission to CHIJ Secondary (Toa Payoh) at Secondary 1 takes place through the MOE PSLE posting exercise and the Direct School Admission (DSA) scheme.
For the PSLE route, indicative cut-off points based on the 2024 intake are as follows: non-affiliated students required Achievement Level (AL) scores of 7 to 9 for Posting Group 3, 21 to 22 for Posting Group 2, and 25 to 28 for Posting Group 1. Affiliated students had slightly lower thresholds, such as 7 to 20 for Posting Group 3 and 21 to 25 for Posting Group 2. These figures represent the score of the last admitted student and will vary from year to year.
The DSA scheme accounts for up to 20% of the Secondary 1 intake. Students may apply based on demonstrated ability in areas including Badminton, Basketball, Rhythmic Gymnastics, Netball, Tennis, music, and debating. DSA applications are submitted through the MOE DSA portal, typically opening around May, with selections involving trials and interviews.
Students from CHIJ Primary (Toa Payoh) receive priority consideration during the admissions process. The school offers O-Level tracks and does not run an Integrated Programme. Under Full Subject-Based Banding (Full SBB), students are placed in mixed form classes and can take subjects at levels that match their individual strengths.
Curriculum and Academic Programme
The academic programme at CHIJ Secondary (Toa Payoh) covers a broad range of core and elective subjects. Core subjects include English Language, Elementary Mathematics, Additional Mathematics, the Sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Biology), and Humanities (Social Studies paired with Geography or History). Mother Tongue Language options include Chinese, Higher Chinese, Malay, and Tamil. Electives such as Principles of Accounts, the Art Elective Programme, and Drama are also available.
The school has received the School Distinction Award and the Best Practice Award in Teaching and Learning, and holds Singapore Quality Class certification. O-Level pass rates have been consistently strong, with results above 95% in subjects such as Mathematics and the Sciences.
Specialised programmes include STEM learning through robotics, bilingual immersion for deeper cultural literacy, and structured leadership development. The lower secondary Drama programme uses activity-based methods to build cultural awareness and collaborative skills, supporting the school's role as a Centre of Excellence for Language and the Arts.
Facilities and Co-Curricular Activities
The campus at CHIJ Secondary (Toa Payoh) includes classrooms equipped with interactive technology, science and computer laboratories, a library, and sports courts for tennis and basketball. Dedicated arts studios and upgraded performing arts spaces support the school's arts-focused programmes. Accessibility features include lifts and a link bridge.
Co-Curricular Activities (CCAs) are a key part of student development, with more than 20 options across several categories:
Sports and Games: Badminton, Basketball, Bowling, Netball, Rhythmic Gymnastics, Tennis, and Track and Field.
Performing Arts: Choir, Modern Dance, English Drama, Guitar Ensemble, and Concert Band.
Clubs and Societies: Arts Alive! (Art and Crafts), Automation and Robotics, Chinese Cultural Society, Debating, IJ Media Club, and Environmental Club.
Uniformed Groups: Girl Guides, Red Cross Youth, and NCC (Sea).
CCA participation supports both personal development and DSA applications, and is connected to the school's broader character education goals.
Student Life and School Culture
School life at CHIJ Secondary (Toa Payoh) is shaped by a Catholic ethos that values inclusivity, kindness, and personal responsibility. The daily schedule combines structured academic periods with reflective assemblies. Class sizes are approximately 40 students, and pastoral care is provided through counselling services, peer support structures, and well-being programmes.
The Student Leadership programme develops students through roles on councils, in CCAs, and at school events, with an emphasis on servant leadership. Values-in-Action (VIA) projects follow a tiered approach, giving students hands-on community service experiences at each level.
The IJ Goes Global programme offers cultural exchanges and overseas learning trips, broadening students' perspectives and encouraging global awareness. Education and Career Guidance (ECG) sessions help students explore post-secondary options including junior colleges, polytechnics, and ITE, supported by work attachments and individual counselling.
For incoming Secondary 1 students, the school runs an orientation programme that includes form teacher meetings, peer support sessions, and introductions to Full SBB and the CCA programme, helping students settle into secondary school life.
Frequently Asked Questions about CHIJ Secondary (Toa Payoh)
Is CHIJ Secondary Toa Payoh a good school?
CHIJ Secondary (Toa Payoh) is an autonomous, government-aided Catholic girls' school with a history stretching back to 1854. It is designated as the South Zone Centre of Excellence for Language and the Arts and has received the School Distinction Award. The school provides a holistic education combining academic rigour with character development and co-curricular involvement.
Is CHIJ Secondary Toa Payoh a co-educational school?
No. CHIJ Secondary (Toa Payoh) is an all-girls school operating on a single-session basis.
Does Singapore officially rank secondary schools?
Singapore does not publish official rankings of secondary schools. CHIJ Secondary (Toa Payoh) holds autonomous school status, which reflects high standards in education and school management.
What are the PSLE cut-off points for CHIJ Secondary Toa Payoh?
Based on the 2024 intake, indicative cut-off points were: non-affiliated students — Posting Group 3 (AL 7–9), Posting Group 2 (AL 21–22), Posting Group 1 (AL 25–28); affiliated students — Posting Group 3 (AL 7–20), Posting Group 2 (AL 21–25), Posting Group 1 (AL 25–28). These figures represent the score of the last admitted student and change annually. Check MOE SchoolFinder for the latest data after the S1 posting exercise.
What is the history of CHIJ Secondary Toa Payoh?
The school was established in 1854 as the oldest Catholic girls' school in Singapore, originally located at Victoria Street. It relocated to Toa Payoh in 1983. It is the founding school of all CHIJ institutions and has maintained a tradition of girls' education within a Christ-centred environment.
What O-Level subjects does CHIJ Secondary Toa Payoh offer?
Subjects include English Language, Mathematics, Additional Mathematics, Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and combined Science options), Humanities (Social Studies with Geography, History, or Literature), Mother Tongue Languages (Chinese, Malay, Tamil, and Higher variants), Art, Higher Art, Principles of Accounts, and Elements of Business Skills. Subject availability may vary by cohort.
Is CHIJ Secondary Toa Payoh affiliated with a primary school?
Yes. The school is affiliated with CHIJ Primary (Toa Payoh). Students from the primary school receive priority admission consideration when transitioning to secondary level.
What CCAs are available at CHIJ Secondary Toa Payoh?
CCAs span four categories. Sports include Badminton, Basketball, Bowling, Netball, Rhythmic Gymnastics, Tennis, and Track and Field. Performing Arts groups include Choir, Guitar Ensemble, Modern Dance, English Drama, and Concert Band. Uniformed Groups include Girl Guides, Red Cross Youth, and NCC (Sea). Clubs cover Art and Crafts, Chinese Cultural Society, Debating, Robotics, Infocomm, and Community Service.
How does Full Subject-Based Banding work at CHIJ Secondary Toa Payoh?
Under Full SBB, Secondary 1 students are placed in mixed form classes and follow a common curriculum for subjects such as English, Mother Tongue, Mathematics, Science, History, Geography, and Literature at lower secondary. Students have the flexibility to take individual subjects at levels suited to their strengths, supporting more inclusive and personalised learning.
What is the DSA process at CHIJ Secondary Toa Payoh?
Primary 6 students may apply for DSA places based on talent in Badminton, Basketball, Rhythmic Gymnastics, Netball, or Tennis. Applications open around May through the MOE DSA portal and involve trials, interviews, and portfolio reviews. Offers are typically made by September.
What is the school motto and mission of CHIJ Secondary Toa Payoh?
The motto is "Simple in Virtue, Steadfast in Duty." The school's mission is to foster a Christ-centred community that upholds truth, justice, freedom, and love. Its vision is to develop women of distinction who serve as thinkers, leaders, and communicators.
What facilities does CHIJ Secondary Toa Payoh have?
Facilities include art and drama studios, science laboratories, sports courts, performing arts venues, a library, and classrooms with interactive technology. Accessibility improvements include lifts and a link bridge.
How does CHIJ Secondary Toa Payoh support the transition from primary to secondary school?
Incoming Secondary 1 students participate in an orientation programme that includes form teacher meetings, peer support sessions, and introductions to Full SBB and co-curricular activities. Students from CHIJ Primary (Toa Payoh) benefit from continuity in values and school culture, and the programme includes camps and structured guidance to ease the adjustment.
What is the Values in Action programme at CHIJ Secondary Toa Payoh?
The VIA programme uses a tiered structure, providing students with community service experiences at each level. Activities include school-wide projects and guided reflections designed to develop a sense of responsibility and active citizenship.
What overseas learning opportunities does CHIJ Secondary Toa Payoh offer?
The IJ Goes Global programme provides cultural exchanges, hosting of international students, and overseas trips to countries such as Vietnam. These experiences are designed to develop global awareness and encourage cross-cultural understanding.
What student leadership opportunities exist at CHIJ Secondary Toa Payoh?
The Student Leadership programme trains students through council roles, CCA leadership positions, and event organisation. The focus is on servant leadership, self-awareness, and developing skills as thinkers, leaders, and communicators.
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