Success of new PSLE system hinges on attitudes, cooperation of all involved

I refer to the commentary “Parents are key to success of new PSLE scoring system” (July 21).

Although the new Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE) scoring system is an improved version, it seems like the same old stuff with a different label to some extent.

Hence, we should first understand why parents in Singapore have become so focused on education.

Nowadays, most parents realise that providing the best rounded form of education is crucial in preparing their children for surviving and excelling in this highly commercialised, technologically advanced and competitive social environment.

Further, nearly all parents, whether they are graduates or non-graduates, expect their next generation to surpass them in whatever way in life.

Hence, an increasing number of parents send their children for tuition and enrichment classes, hoping that the added learning could help their children to study and score better.

Some parents encourage or even expect their academically smart children to chase a prestigious scholarship, as they equate securing one with having a shorter, faster pathway to a better and more stable job, a brighter future and success.

Parents are aware that one of the criteria specified under prestigious government or private scholarship schemes is that applicants must possess excellent academic results, on top of other requirements. These realities are ingrained in parents’ thinking and will further the emphasis on education.

In short, how successful the new PSLE scoring system will be, in terms of satisfaction and acceptance level, will hinge on the attitudes and cooperation of the stakeholders, namely parents, teachers and educational industry players.

Notwithstanding, parents should remember that children are not born equally, and each of them has a different inherent ability.

Parents should play an advisory role by allowing and encouraging their children to progress in their studies gradually, according to their ability and interest, while observing their progress regularly.