Schools with Strong Arts Programmes in Singapore: A Guide for Creative Students

For a child who lives and breathes the arts, secondary school is not just about academics — it is about finding a community and a programme that nurtures their creative identity. Singapore has a number of secondary schools with genuinely exceptional arts offerings. Here is how to identify the right one for your child.

School of the Arts Singapore (SOTA)

SOTA is Singapore’s only dedicated arts school offering a full 6-year Integrated Programme leading to the International Baccalaureate (IB). Students specialise in one of six art forms: Dance, Music, Literary Arts, Theatre, Visual Arts, or Film. The programme combines intensive arts training with a rigorous academic curriculum. Admission is through DSA, with auditions and portfolio submissions forming the core of the selection process.

Schools Known for Performing Arts CCAs

• Victoria School — Recognised for its strong choral tradition and Symphonic Band. The choir has won national and international competitions.

• Raffles Institution / Raffles Girls' School — Strong performing arts culture with a well-funded Drama, Choir, and Orchestra programme.

• St. Joseph’s Institution — Notable for visual arts and drama, with a dedicated arts studio and strong IB arts component for IP students.

• CHIJ St. Nicholas Girls’ School — Strong in Chinese dance and choir, with a proud tradition in SYF (Singapore Youth Festival) arts presentations.

• Anglican High School — Known for its Chinese Orchestra and strong Chinese cultural arts identity.

• Temasek Secondary School — Consistently produces high-achieving arts CCAs, particularly in Modern Dance.

How to Get In: DSA for Arts

Most strong arts schools offer DSA places in their specific art forms. Applications open in May of P6 year. Your child will typically need to submit a portfolio and/or attend an audition or interview. Start preparing the DSA application in P5 — give your child time to develop and document their work.

What to Look For Beyond the CCA Name

• SYF results: Schools with Certificates of Distinction consistently demonstrate high-quality training.

• External performances: Schools that perform at professional venues or internationally have a genuinely serious arts culture.

• Alumni pathways: Check where arts graduates from the school go — a school that sends students to NAFA, LAS, or SOTA JC is serious about arts as a viable path.

Continue Reading

• What is DSA? A Parent’s Complete Guide to Direct School Admission in Singapore

• How to Choose a Secondary School in Singapore: 8 Questions Every Parent Should Ask