Chan Chun Sing on preparing teachers for changing education demands

All teachers must be lifelong learners who understand the diverse learning needs of students, appreciate the intent behind education policies and practices, and facilitate meaningful learning experiences for their students, said Education Minister Chan Chun Sing. Replying to an MP's question in Parliament on Tuesday (Nov 8), he said the Ministry of Education (MOE) works closely with the National Institute of Education (NIE) to prepare and support teachers throughout their careers to be competent, caring and respected. The pre-service curriculum focuses on training teachers to build character in students and meet the changing demands of education. It also strengthens practices in schools and promotes innovation, inquiry- and technology-based learning. Mr Chan said NIE reviews the effectiveness of its programmes regularly. It gathers feedback from pre-service teachers to enable NIE to keep its programmes relevant. Throughout their careers, teachers are offered a range of in-service learning opportunities.