Tutors and prices
Sec 1 tuition in 2027: how much is it, and does my child need it?
Reviewed by Theon Teo, Founder · Last checked · How we check facts
Short answer
Sec 1 tuition is not needed for every child, but it helps when the jump from primary school shows up early, most often in Maths, where model drawing gives way to algebra. In 2027, Sec 1 home tuition costs about S$30 to S$45 an hour with a part-time tutor, S$45 to S$60 with a full-time tutor and S$60 to S$85 with an ex-MOE teacher.
Sec 1 tuition rates
The rates are the same at G1, G2 and G3. The level changes the content, not the price.
| Tutor type | Per hour | 4-lesson month |
|---|---|---|
| Part-time tutor | S$30 to S$45 | S$180 to S$270 |
| Full-time tutor | S$45 to S$60 | S$270 to S$360 |
| Ex-MOE teacher | S$60 to S$85 | S$360 to S$510 |
Source: The Singapore Syllabus, rates by level and tutor type.
What changes in Sec 1
- Maths moves from model drawing and heuristics to algebra, and algebra runs through every later topic.
- Science splits into more topics, with more written explanation and practical work.
- Under Full Subject-Based Banding, each subject is taken at G1, G2 or G3, and some subjects can start at a more demanding level than the rest.
- Weighted assessments start in term 1, so falling behind shows early.
Source: MOE, Schools offering Full SBB (updated 29 September 2026).
Signs your child would benefit
If none of these apply, waiting until the first test results is reasonable. Many children settle within a term.
- Maths marks drop sharply in the first weighted assessment of term 1 or 2.
- Your child takes a subject at a higher level than the rest, such as G3 Maths with most subjects at G2, and finds the pace hard.
- Homework takes much longer than in P6, or your child avoids one subject.
- Your child is moving from an international or overseas school into the local system.
When to start
The 2027 school year starts on 4 January. Some families book a few lessons in late November and December after the PSLE, to preview Sec 1 algebra. Others wait for the first results in term 1. Either works. What matters is not leaving a gap in algebra to grow into Sec 2.
Source: MOE, School terms and holidays for 2027 (14 July 2026).
Common questions
Which Sec 1 subject should we start with?
Usually Maths, because algebra underpins the rest of secondary Maths and Science. Add English or Science only if school results show a gap.
Is Sec 1 tuition different at G1, G2 and G3?
The content and pace differ, so ask for a tutor who teaches your child's level. The hourly rate is the same for all three levels.
Should we start before Sec 1 begins?
It is optional. A few lessons in December can preview algebra and build confidence, but there is no need to cover the Sec 1 syllabus ahead of school.
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