VOCATIONAL SCHOOLS

Mr Ng Kah Ting asked the Minister for Education what is the number of Vocational Schools; what type of education is provided, and what opportunities are open for further vocational education.

Mr Ong Pang Boon: There are 11 Secondary Vocational Schools which provide two years of secondary education comprising 50 per cent general subjects and 50 per cent practical subjects like woodwork, metalwork, domestic science and art and crafts. The education and training at the Vocational School would provide pupils with a suitable background for the type of employment where basic vocational skill and knowledge would be an advantage. At the end of the two-year course, students sit for the Secondary Vocational School Certificate examination conducted by the Ministry of Education. Those with good passes in this examination are given preference for admission to the Singapore Vocational Institute which provides training for entry into industry in the skilled trades. The courses available at the Institute include Electrical Fitting, Mechanical Engineering Practice, Motor Vehicle Mechanics, Plumbing, Radio Servicing, Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning, Tinsmithing, Reinforced Concrete and Brickwork, Welding and Shipbuilding. This year, 195 students with the Secondary Vocational School Certificate were enrolled for full-time courses at the Singapore Vocational Institute.