Thanks autolycus and WeiHan for a lively discussion on this issue. I agree with WeiHan in this. And I want to submit my replies to autolycus below:


(1) If a boy wants to pursue Integrated Program leading to A-level, he has many schools to choose from. But if he wants to pursue Integrated Program leading to IB-Diploma, ACS-I is the only choice. So, a boy may join ACS-I, not because he belives in a Methodist institution, but because he has nowhere to go for an Integrated Program leading to IB Diploma (of course International schools are excluded here on grounds of their huge fees).

(2) autolycus asked - ‘Why not transfer out?’ Because of the reason stated above, the boy has nowhere to ‘transfer out’ since no other school (participating in PSLE Centralised S-1 Posting Exzercise) is offering IP leading to IB Diploma.

(3) Another question is - "Why not just sit in the Chapel and just ‘tune out’"?
If left with no choice, non-Christian students may do that. But the question is - ‘Is it fair to leave them with no choice?’ Should not the school respect the religious sentiments of the non-Christian students? In fact from what I know, "respecting the religious sentiments of others" is in fact a noble Christian value. Why not display that true Christian spirit?

(4) Regarding the discussion on whether Acs-I is using taxpayers money or not, I think WeiHan has explained the issues brilliantly. There is nothing to add.

On the overall thanks to all for their views and lively discussion.

Hi all,


I am new to this forum but found it stunningly informative, especially with so many awesome contributors.

For a boy living in west with PSLE aggregate of 258, what school choices would you suggest? He is non-chinese. So no SAP schools please.

Thank you very much.

Hi all,


I am new to this forum but found it stunningly informative, especially with awesome contributors like 25hourmaid.

For a boy living in west with PSLE aggregate of 258, what school choices would you suggest? He is non-chinese. So no SAP schools please.

Thank you very much.

Polar bear:

Hi, I am caught in a dilemma. I have an aggregate score of 262, and I already have a confirmed place in ACSI under the Direct School Admission. But I am considering appealing to Raffles Institution but I am still undecided as to which school I prefer more. Can someone please tell me the pros and cons of these two schools and the key differences between them. I also wish to know which program, the A levels or the International Baccalaureate would provide me with a better opportunity to enter a good university.


Thank you very much!

My son was in a similar dilemma a few years ago and he chose to go to RI.

I think you also should go for RI. My reasons are:

(1) While both schools are very good, the peer group you will find in RI will be much closer to your level.

(2) ACSI has both IP and 'O' level. It has a more generic crowd as a result, with its own pros and cons. But RI has only IP. For a person like you who scored 262, RI will suit more, I believe.

I have a great respect for ACSI. So please do not take offence. Thanks.