Frequently Asked Questions

We’re here to answer any questions you may have. If you still need support or have any further questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

General School Information

When is the school opening?

RD American School is opening on 20 August 2025.

What grade levels will the school offer initially?

We will welcome students in Grade 1 to Grade 3 for our inaugural academic year.

Are there plans to expand grade levels or offer additional programs in the future?

Yes. We are committed to growing with our students and will expand our grade offerings in subsequent years to ensure a continuous and seamless educational journey. Additionally, we plan to introduce new academic and extracurricular programs that further enhance student learning experiences.

What makes this school different from other American international schools in Singapore?

Our vision is to be an inquiry-driven catalyst for learning - grounded in the science of human development and dedicated to pioneering new models of education that foster human flourishing. This commitment means moving beyond traditional classroom models.
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We are designing flexible, engaging spaces proven to inspire collaboration and creativity, while remaining deeply committed to building students' skills, knowledge and character to meet the opportunities and challenges of an ever-changing world. What sets us apart is our evidence-based approach informed by the science of learning, ensuring that our environment supports all learners in optimizing their learning journeys.

Is the school affiliated with any international organizations or education groups?

Yes. We have a close partnership with Riverdale Country School in New York, a prestigious institution founded in 1907 and ranked America’s #1 Private School by Niche.com.

Riverdale is internationally recognized for being at the forefront of K–12 educational innovation, and this partnership ensures that RD American School provides a world-class education. Our students benefit from:

Cutting-edge teaching methodologies rooted in research
A globally recognized curriculum designed for academic excellence
Strong connections with a leading American school, fostering a global network of opportunities

No school could better support our goal of creating a learning environment where students receive the finest, most research-driven and up-to-date education possible.

Admissions

What are the entry requirements for students?

At RD American School, we use a selective admissions process to ensure students that we admit can thrive in our school program. As part of the application process, we meet with families to assess each student’s readiness to engage positively within the school community. Our review includes age-appropriate evaluations of listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills, as well as indicators of social maturity and readiness to thrive in a collaborative learning environment. While we welcome students with a range of language backgrounds, applicants must demonstrate at least a foundational level of English to ensure they can engage with the curriculum effectively and participate meaningfully in all aspects of school life.

Together with parents, we also explore educational philosophies, expectations, and the school’s approach to learning, with the goal of ensuring a strong alignment between the school’s values and the family’s educational aspirations.

RD American School requires all applicants to meet the following entry requirements to be considered eligible for admission. This is in addition to meeting our assessment and immigration requirements:

Applicants applying for entry into Grade 1: Students must have completed at least one year of preschool*.
Applicants applying for entry into Grade 2 and Grade 3: students must have successfully completed the previous school year* (e.g., completion of Grade 1 is required for entry into Grade 2).

*Exceptions will only be granted on a case-by-case basis with the approval of the Head of School.

Are Entrance Assessments or Interviews required?

As part of the admissions process, we meet with each family to assess the student’s readiness to engage positively with peers and the curriculum. This includes age-appropriate evaluations of listening, speaking, reading, writing skills, and social maturity. While we welcome students from diverse language backgrounds, applicants should demonstrate a foundational level of English to participate meaningfully in school life.

We also take time to discuss educational philosophies and expectations with parents or guardians to ensure strong alignment between the family’s goals and the school’s values.

Following receipt of an application, we invite families to meet with us, either in person or virtually. Some applicants may be asked to complete an English language assessment to determine if we can provide the language support needed.

How much are the tuition fees, and what do they include?

Please view our School Fees section for more detailed information about our fees.

Do you offer any promotion for Founding students?

Yes! We’re grateful to our founding families for their trust, and we're pleased to offer a S$5,000 Flourish Founding Family Discount for families enrolling their children for the 2025-2026 Academic Year. This applies to every child enrolled from August 2025 through June 2026 and extends for each wonderful year they stay with us.For more details, view our School Fees.

Are there additional fees?

Yes, additional fees may be incurred for specific services, such as the English as an Additional Language (EAL) Support Program, transportation, meals, uniforms, and any applicable miscellaneous charges. For full details on additional fees, please view our School Fees section.

Do you accept mid-year enrolments?

Yes, RD American School accepts mid-year enrollments, subject to availability.

Does the school welcome students with particular learning support needs?

RD American School considers students with learning support needs for enrollment; however, our unique immersion program may not be suitable for every child. Admission for students requiring learning support or support services is considered on a case-by-case basis, ensuring best practices and the child's best interest, within the scope of available resources. If you have any questions or concerns, we encourage you to contact the school before submitting your application.

Curriculum

Which international curriculum does the school offer?

RD American School follows the International Primary Curriculum (IPC), a globally recognized framework designed to foster academic excellence, creativity, and inquiry-based learning. The IPC encourages students to develop critical thinking skills, cultural awareness and a deep understanding of subjects through interdisciplinary, hands-on learning experiences.

Are additional language programs available (e.g., EAL support, Mandarin)?

Yes, we offer English as an Additional Language (EAL) support for students who need additional assistance in developing their English proficiency.
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Additionally, students will have the opportunity to learn Mandarin through an approach that combines language instruction alongside cultural learning and local experiences.

What are the class sizes and student-teacher ratios?

Each class will have a maximum of 20 students supported by a dedicated teacher and a learning assistant. This ensures that every child receives personalized attention and engagement in a dynamic learning environment.

Will students from different years be placed together in one classroom?

In our inaugural year, some grade levels may be combined into a single class section, such as Grade 2-3. With a maximum class size of 20 students, each class will be supported by a teacher and a learning assistant, ensuring that students’ academic and developmental needs are appropriately met.

Does the school provide support for English and other academic subjects?

Yes, we do. At RD American School, supporting students to achieve success is at the core of our mission. Academic and language support is personalized for each student, based on observations, teacher feedback, and assessments, both internal and, when needed, through external educational experts. This tailored support, whether in or out of the classroom, is designed to meet each student's unique needs and ensure their ongoing academic growth.

What extracurricular programs are available?

Our Revel & Discovery - After School Program invites students to explore their emerging interests and stretch the edges of who they are becoming. Whether through movement, creativity, storytelling or innovation, children are given the space to try, reflect and grow. From puppetry and theatre to yoga, martial arts, 3D design, and cultural clubs, each offering is designed to spark joy, resilience and new discovery.

Does the school integrate technology into learning?

Our school’s approach to technology is guided by research that highlights the importance of face-to-face interaction for young children’s cognitive and social-emotional development. While we limit screen time for our youngest learners, all students are taught to use technology in safe, age-appropriate, and purposeful ways that enhance their learning. Consistent with our commitment to student flourishing, we encourage our students to become creative producers of ideas and content - not just passive consumers. We also support our teachers in using technology, including AI, thoughtfully and strategically as tools that can promote and accelerate deep, impactful learning experiences across the curriculum.

Teacher & Staff

What are the qualifications of the teachers?

All teachers at RD American School meet international teaching standards and hold relevant teaching qualifications and certifications. They have experience in inquiry-based learning and are trained to deliver the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) effectively.
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In addition to their academic credentials, our teachers are selected for their passion for education, ability to inspire students and commitment to fostering a dynamic learning environment.

What professional development opportunities do teachers receive?

All RD teachers complete a rigorous six-week, hands-on training program at Teachers College, Columbia University. Personally led by Dr. Kevin Mattingly, a pioneer in the Science of Learning, this program equips our educators with the latest research-based strategies to create meaningful, effective, and lasting learning experiences for every student. Through our partnership with Riverdale Country School, teachers also benefit from ongoing professional development grounded in research and best practices, ensuring every classroom reflects the highest standards in education and inspires every student to flourish.

School Life

Where is the school and what facilities does it offer?

Our school is situated in the lively Changi Business Park in eastern Singapore, making it easily accessible and strategically positioned.In collaboration with award winning architect Trung Le, a pioneer in designing schools for 21st century learners, we have created a 6,811 sq metres (phase 1), one of a kind learning space involving the pedagogical understanding on how students learn best that inspire movement, creativity, and collaboration. For more detail view Our Learning Spaces.

Does the school provide transportation services?

Yes, RD American School offers a safe and reliable school bus service for students, covering several residential areas in Singapore. Parents will receive details on bus routes, pick-up/drop-off locations and fees closer to the school’s opening.

What security and safety measures are in place?

‍At RD American School, the safety and well-being of our students, staff, and visitors is a top priority. In line with international safety standards, we have established a comprehensive set of security measures to ensure a secure and supportive learning environment.

Our safety protocols include:

Monitored entry points with controlled door access during school hours
CCTV surveillance throughout key areas of the campus for ongoing oversight
Visitor registration to manage and track campus access
Emergency preparedness plans, with regular fire, lockdown and evacuation drills
Staff trained in first aid and emergency response to act swiftly and effectively when needed

We are committed to fostering a secure environment where students can thrive - academically, socially and emotionally - each and every day.

Is there a cafeteria, and what kind of meals are provided?

While we do not yet have an in-house cafeteria, we are partnering with a trusted food service provider to ensure high-quality meals and snacks that meet nutritional and hygiene standards.

Is there a school uniform?

Yes, RDAS has a required school uniform. Orders will be managed through an outside vendor. Parents will receive details on styles and ordering closer to the school’s opening.