Tanglin Trust School Review
Overview of the School
Founded in 1925, Tanglin Trust School is one of Singapore’s longest-established international schools. Located on Portsdown Road, it provides education from the early years through to Sixth Form and offers a British-based education within an international setting. The school follows a bespoke curriculum incorporating elements of the English National Curriculum, with students able to pursue either A Levels or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma in the Sixth Form.
Academic Strengths
Tanglin offers a strong and well-established British academic pathway, with a clear emphasis on academic achievement, independent thinking and breadth of learning. The school’s curriculum is designed to provide continuity from the early years through to university preparation, whilst also encouraging students to develop an international perspective. The Sixth Form offers both A Levels and the IB Diploma, providing flexibility for students with different academic strengths and university aspirations.
The school’s established reputation and breadth of subject choice make it particularly attractive to families seeking a long-term educational pathway in Singapore.
Pastoral Care and Community Life
Pastoral care is an important part of the Tanglin experience, with an emphasis on knowing students individually and supporting their academic, social and personal development. The school maintains strong communication between teachers and families, which is particularly valuable for internationally mobile families.
Its diverse international community provides students with opportunities to develop cultural awareness and friendships across a wide range of backgrounds. The established nature of the school also provides a sense of continuity and stability for families planning to remain in Singapore for several years.
Co-Curricular Life
Tanglin offers an extensive co-curricular programme spanning sport, music, drama, visual arts, film, outdoor education, service learning and academic enrichment. Students can also participate in activities such as debating, Model United Nations and leadership programmes, alongside international trips and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. The breadth of opportunities allows students to explore interests beyond the classroom and develop confidence, independence and leadership skills.
Why We Recommend Tanglin
Tanglin is particularly well suited to families seeking an established British education in Singapore with a strong international dimension. Its through-school structure can be attractive to families who value continuity, whilst the choice between A Levels and the IB Diploma provides flexibility for different university pathways. It can be particularly suitable for families relocating from the UK who want a familiar educational framework whilst also benefiting from Singapore’s international environment.
Final Thoughts
Tanglin Trust School offers a mature and well-established British education with considerable academic and co-curricular breadth. Its combination of curriculum continuity, pastoral support and Sixth Form flexibility makes it an important consideration for families seeking a long-term international education in Singapore.