GEP a source of positive pressure for students

I refer to the letter “GEP no longer fits values of S’pore” (Aug 29) by Ms Schutz Lee.

It is my opinion that the Gifted Education Programme (GEP) continues to be a source of positive pressure. It creates a tangible yardstick of intellectual achievement which students can aspire to.

Students will be motivated to join the GEP as it will prove to them their intellectual capability. Those who fail to make the grade, however, should not feel bad about themselves. The selection for entry into the GEP is based on test results and those who fail may hold skills and talents in other areas.

Ms Lee argued that the GEP system rewards families who are able to, and choose to, expend larger-than-normal amounts of resources on their children’s education. Is it not for the best if those with more use what extra they have for the academic betterment of their children, which might be of benefit to the country?

Indeed, if the GEP were abolished, would parents cease to try giving their children whatever edge they can get over their peers? I think not.

Ms Lee also made the point that GEP schools will always be perceived as better schools. But the ability to have GEP classes is merely one benefit of these schools. Places in schools with other facilities, such as swimming pools, are also coveted.

She also argued that GEP students having an extra pathway into secondary schools is inherently wrong. I would like to point out, at this juncture, that this shows nothing wrong with the GEP itself — it merely indicates a fault lying in the selection process for secondary school places.

Moreover, the Direct School Admission (DSA) scheme is meant for students who have exceptional abilities in special areas not fully covered by the Primary School Leaving Examination to gain entry into the secondary school of their choice.

Should students with a deep and strong ability in certain subjects not be granted extra leeway in the selection process?

In any case, the question for the relevant authorities is how many GEP students make use of the DSA scheme.