Navigating the Singaporean education system can be challenging for any parent — and even more so when a child has special educational needs (SEN). Thankfully, Singapore has made significant strides in inclusive education, with more pathways and support systems available than ever before. This guide aims to walk you through the SEN journey — from understanding the types of needs supported to choosing the right school, and how to work in partnership for your child’s success.

Types of Special Educational Needs Supported in Singapore

Special educational needs encompass a broad spectrum of developmental, learning, and behavioural differences. In Singapore, SEN support is extended to children with:

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
• Dyslexia and other learning difficulties
• Global Developmental Delay (GDD)
• Sensory processing challenges
• Speech and language delays
• Anxiety and socio-emotional regulation difficulties

At institutions like the Integrated International School (IIS), support programmes are tailored for neurodiverse learners, ensuring they receive the right tools to thrive academically and socially.

Pathways to Enrolment

Parents typically start the enrolment journey by identifying their child’s specific needs — often through developmental assessments or diagnostic screenings. From there, they can choose between:

• Mainstream schools with Allied Educators trained to support SEN students
• Special Education (SPED) schools, such as those under SG Enable
• Inclusive international schools like IIS, which offer individualised support within a mainstream environment

An essential part of the process is a professional assessment, which helps determine the kind of classroom or curriculum best suited to your child. IIS works closely with both internal specialists and external partners to support smooth transitions from diagnosis to enrolment (learn more about diagnostic assessments here).

Available Learning Support Programmes

SEN-friendly schools often provide tiered support systems, ranging from in-class accommodations to intensive pull-out sessions. At IIS, for example, students benefit from:

• Educational Therapy
• Speech and Language Therapy
• Occupational Therapy
• Social Skills Training
• Emotional Regulation Coaching

These support systems are embedded into the school day, ensuring that therapy is not separate from learning, but complements it.

Parent-School Partnership

One of the most crucial pillars of success in special needs education is the strength of the parent-school partnership. Schools that support SEN students should foster open communication, collaborative goal-setting, and regular progress updates.

At IIS, this partnership is nurtured through:

• Personalised Individual Education Plans (IEPs)
• Frequent parent-teacher conferences
• In-house psychologists and counsellors to bridge gaps between home and school

A supportive and transparent relationship helps parents feel empowered and keeps all stakeholders aligned on the child’s goals and needs.

Testimonials

Real voices often paint the clearest picture of impact. If you don’t believe us, hear it straight from the mouths of our parents and students: 

“For the first time, my son feels seen, not just accommodated.” — Parent of a Year 4 student

“We’ve seen so much growth in his confidence. He now participates, raises his hand, and enjoys school.” — Parent of a child with ASD

These stories highlight not just academic success, but the emotional safety and self-worth that comes from being understood.

Tailor-Made Education: Von Auer Collaborative Teaching Approach™

Every child’s learning journey is unique — and when it comes to special needs education in Singapore, support is not one-size-fits-all. At the heart of IIS's success is the Von Auer Collaborative Teaching Approach™, where teachers are empowered with the flexibility to adapt lesson plans to individual learning styles, ensuring everyone is appreciated and no one feels left behind. From diagnostic assessments to inclusive classrooms, Singapore's evolving landscape means that families no longer have to choose between academic excellence and emotional wellbeing. If you’re exploring the best fit for your child, schools like IIS offer both specialised support and an inclusive community where every learner is valued.

Through personalised counselling approaches by our dedicated team of educators and supportive staff, the Integrated International School (IIS) is committed to facilitating a safe and inclusive learning environment for students with various types of special educational needs. 

Want to learn more about our inclusive education support programmes? Contact us today for a school tour and see firsthand how we're helping neurodiverse learners thrive in Singapore's educational landscape.