As Singapore welcomes students back for the 2025 academic year, the Ministry of Education (MOE) has issued updated MOE Guidelines to ensure a smooth and safe return to learning. These MOE health protocols are designed to address both lingering post-pandemic sensitivities and modern classroom safety needs.
The new back-to-school rules apply across all primary, secondary, and post-secondary institutions and are part of the national strategy to reinforce confidence in the education system while maintaining a secure environment for students and teachers.
Key MOE Reopening Rules Students Must Follow
The MOE Guidelines introduced in 2025 bring refreshed rules that prioritize health, mental wellness, and academic consistency. Here’s what’s new:
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Daily temperature screening for all students and staff
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Mask optional policy unless advised by authorities
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Mandatory reporting of flu-like symptoms via school portals
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Improved ventilation in classrooms and common areas
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Staggered arrival and dismissal times to reduce crowding
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Continued use of digital learning tools for blended education
These MOE health protocols ensure that schools remain functional and adaptable regardless of external health developments.
What Parents Should Know About Safe School Measures
For parents, the Safe School SG approach means peace of mind and proactive engagement. Here’s what to expect:
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Real-time health status tracking via Parent Gateway app
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Direct communication from schools regarding any outbreaks
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Mental health support for students, with expanded counselling staff
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Cleaners assigned to each school block for sanitation rotations
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Reopening kits distributed to each student (includes masks, hand sanitiser, thermometer)
By integrating parents into the communication loop, the MOE Guidelines aim to create a stronger school-home partnership.
Support for Students Returning to School
Beyond safety, the back-to-school rules also address academic and emotional transitions. Key support includes:
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Remedial programmes for students falling behind
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Special education support resumption with therapists on site
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Peer mentorship programmes for new Primary 1 and Secondary 1 students
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Free digital devices for low-income families continuing hybrid learning
These support systems align with MOE health protocols to ensure that students return not just safely—but confidently.
What Happens if a Student Is Sick?
Under the 2025 MOE Guidelines, if a student shows symptoms:
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They must stay home and log symptoms in the school’s online system
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Schools will provide catch-up materials digitally
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If COVID-19 or other infectious diseases are detected, entire classes may shift to Home-Based Learning (HBL) temporarily
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Parents will be informed immediately under the Safe School SG framework
All measures aim to be minimally disruptive while prioritizing health and learning consistency.
FAQs
Are masks still required under the 2025 MOE Guidelines?
No, masks are optional under MOE health protocols, unless advised during specific health alerts.
How will schools manage large groups during arrival and dismissal?
Back-to-school rules include staggered timing schedules to reduce crowding and maintain safer traffic flow.
What happens if there’s a COVID-19 case in school?
Under Safe School SG, affected classes may move to HBL temporarily, and parents will be notified immediately.
Is mental health support available in schools?
Yes, the 2025 MOE Guidelines include expanded counsellor availability and student well-being check-ins.
Will students receive hygiene supplies?
Yes, each student will receive a reopening kit as part of MOE health protocols when school resumes.
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