St. Joseph’s Institution Junior College: Nurturing Leaders with Integrity and Purpose

If you’re exploring pre-university options for your child in Singapore, St. Joseph’s Institution Junior College (SJI JC) stands out as a premier choice for quality education. As part of St. Joseph’s Institution, founded in 1852 by the De La Salle Brothers, SJI JC is a respected co-educational institution offering a two-year International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). Rooted in the Lasallian mission of nurturing students to be people of integrity and for others, SJI JC combines academic excellence with character development and leadership training. With its rigorous curriculum, vibrant community, and global recognition, SJI JC is an ideal environment for your child to thrive.

School Overview

St. Joseph’s Institution (SJI) was established in 1852 by Reverend Father Jean-Marie Beurel as St. John’s School, a free school for boys at Bras Basah Road. Renamed St. Joseph’s Institution in 1855, it became Singapore’s first Catholic school and the third oldest school in the country. The junior college section, SJI JC, was formalized with the introduction of the Integrated Programme (IP) in 2013, allowing students to pursue a six-year track culminating in the IBDP without taking the GCE O-Level examinations. SJI JC also admits students via the Secondary Education Certificate (SEC) track based on O-Level results, offering a co-educational two-year IBDP.

The educational philosophy of SJI JC is grounded in the Lasallian values of faith, service, and community, aiming to develop students who are critical thinkers, compassionate leaders, and global citizens. Unique features include:

International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP): A globally recognized curriculum emphasizing critical thinking, research, and interdisciplinary learning.
Engineering and Tech Programme and Scholarship: Provides advanced training in technology and engineering, preparing students for STEM careers.
Community Youth Leadership: Encourages students to engage in service projects, fostering civic responsibility and leadership.
Lasallian Heritage: As part of seven Lasallian schools in Singapore, SJI JC promotes a culture of inclusivity and respect for diverse faiths and backgrounds.

Historical Milestones

Year	Milestone
1852	Founded as St. John’s School by the De La Salle Brothers.
1855	Renamed St. Joseph’s Institution on the Feast of St. Joseph.
1975	Pre-university classes transferred to Catholic Junior College.
1988	Relocated to a new campus at Malcolm Road.
2013	Introduced the Integrated Programme with the IBDP for Years 5–6.
2025	Celebrated achievements at Open House, showcasing student talents.

Academic Excellence

SJI JC is likely renowned for its academic excellence, particularly in the IBDP. In the 2025 Joint Admissions Exercise (JAE), the L1R5 aggregate ranged from 2 to 6, reflecting the high caliber of its students. The IBDP curriculum is comprehensive, covering six subject groups:

Group 1: English A: Language and Literature, English A: Literature.
Group 2: Chinese B, Malay B, Tamil B, Mandarin Ab Initio, Spanish Ab Initio, Bahasa Indonesia Ab Initio.
Group 3: Economics, History, Geography.
Group 4: Biology, Chemistry, Physics.
Group 5: Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches.
Group 6: Music, Visual Arts (or additional subjects from Groups 3 or 4).

Core components like Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS), Extended Essay, and Theory of Knowledge enhance students’ critical thinking and global awareness. Specialized programs, such as the Engineering and Tech Programme, provide advanced training, while the school’s focus on academic competitions ensures students excel in national and international arenas. The presence of Special Educational Needs Officers supports diverse learners, fostering inclusivity and academic success.

Facilities and Extracurricular Activities

SJI JC likely offers state-of-the-art facilities to support its academic and extracurricular programs. These include modern science laboratories, a well-stocked library, air-conditioned lecture theatres, and sports facilities such as basketball courts, a swimming pool, and a gymnasium. Dedicated spaces for performing arts, including music and drama rooms, enhance creative expression.

The college provides a vibrant array of Co-Curricular Activities (CCAs) to foster leadership, teamwork, and personal growth. Available CCAs include:

Category	Activities
Sports	Basketball (Boys), Canoeing (Boys), Cross Country, Football, Sailing, Table Tennis (Boys), Tennis (Boys), Track and Field
Performing Arts	Modern Dance, English Drama, Music, Concert Band
Clubs & Societies	Debating and Public Speaking, Political and Current Affairs, Community Youth Leadership, Leadership, Science and Technology, Science Research, Mathematics/Science, Visual Arts, Photography, Film, Community Service, Student Leadership (House)
Uniformed Groups	Scouts

These CCAs, combined with initiatives like the 2025 Open House and community service projects, provide students with opportunities to develop diverse skills and contribute to society. The Student Leadership (House) program further enhances leadership and camaraderie.

Choosing A Suitable Junior College

As a parent helping your child navigate Singapore’s demanding pre-university phase, the enrollment process can blend hope with some pressure. You need to manage O-level results, L1R5 scores, cut-off points, school affiliations, Direct School Admission options, and everyday details like location and subjects available, all while choosing a junior college that fits your child’s strengths, interests, and future goals. Your key aims likely include building a solid academic base through programs like A-levels or IB, which are crucial for getting into a desired university because they show strong subject knowledge and critical thinking skills that admissions teams look for. It’s vital to highlight that working hard and getting good grades in junior college is essential, as this dedication directly increases their chances of entering a top university and builds a strong foundation for success. You’ll also want to support balanced growth with leadership opportunities, co-curricular activities, and values-based learning, create a helpful environment that boosts curiosity, resilience, and social skills, and set them up to do well in higher education and a changing job market.

FAQ’s about St. Joseph’s Institution Junior College

Is St. Joseph’s Institution Junior College a good school?
While “good” is subjective, St. Joseph’s Institution Junior College is highly regarded as an independent school with a competitive admission process, attracting top-performing students through its low cut-off points and rigorous International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). It emphasizes holistic development, including academic excellence, leadership, and character building in line with Lasallian values, preparing students well for university and beyond. For personalized insights, parents are encouraged to visit the school during open houses.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=St.%20Joseph%27s%20Institution%20Junior%20College

Is St. Joseph’s Institution Junior College a co-ed school?
Yes, St. Joseph’s Institution Junior College is a co-educational school, welcoming both male and female students in a single-session environment. This setup fosters diverse interactions and collaborative learning experiences at the pre-university level.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=St.%20Joseph%27s%20Institution%20Junior%20College

What is the ranking of St. Joseph’s Institution Junior College?
The Ministry of Education in Singapore does not provide official rankings for junior colleges to promote holistic education over competition. However, based on its low L1R5 cut-off points of 2-6, St. Joseph’s Institution Junior College is considered one of the top-tier institutions, known for its academic rigor and prestigious IB programme.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=St.%20Joseph%27s%20Institution%20Junior%20College

What is the cut-off point for St. Joseph’s Institution Junior College?
The cut-off point for admission to St. Joseph’s Institution Junior College via the 2025 Joint Admissions Exercise (JAE) is an L1R5 net aggregate of 2-6 for its International Baccalaureate programme. This reflects the school’s high academic standards and selectivity. Explore the admissions page for the latest updates on cut-off points.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=St.%20Joseph%27s%20Institution%20Junior%20College

Does St. Joseph’s Institution Junior College offer the Integrated Programme?
Yes, St. Joseph’s Institution Junior College offers a 6-year Integrated Programme (IP) that bypasses the O-Level examinations and leads directly to the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) in Years 5 and 6. This programme provides a seamless, enriched curriculum focusing on both academic and non-academic development.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/secondary/courses/express/integrated-programme

What programmes are offered at St. Joseph’s Institution Junior College?
St. Joseph’s Institution Junior College primarily offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP, course code 52I), with additional electives in the Engineering and Tech Programme and Scholarships. The IBDP emphasizes global perspectives, critical thinking, and holistic growth, ideal for pre-university students aiming for international opportunities.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=St.%20Joseph%27s%20Institution%20Junior%20College

What subjects are offered at St. Joseph’s Institution Junior College?
Subjects at St. Joseph’s Institution Junior College under the IBDP include English A: Language and Literature (HL/SL), Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches (HL/SL), Economics (HL/SL), History (HL/SL), Geography (HL/SL), Biology (HL/SL), Chemistry (HL/SL), Physics (HL/SL), Music (HL/SL), Visual Arts (HL/SL), and various languages like Chinese B, Malay B, and ab initio options. Core components such as Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS), Extended Essay, and Theory of Knowledge are also required. Students can choose combinations based on their interests and university aspirations.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=St.%20Joseph%27s%20Institution%20Junior%20College

How can I apply to St. Joseph’s Institution Junior College through DSA or JAE?
Admission to St. Joseph’s Institution Junior College can be through the Joint Admissions Exercise (JAE) based on O-Level results or Direct School Admission for Junior Colleges (DSA-JC), where the school may participate in Phase 1 or both phases for talented students in specific areas. For DSA, applications typically assess talents in academics, sports, or leadership; check the MOE website for timelines. Parents should review the school profile for eligibility and contact the school for application guidance.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=St.%20Joseph%27s%20Institution%20Junior%20College

What Co-Curricular Activities (CCAs) are available at St. Joseph’s Institution Junior College?
St. Joseph’s Institution Junior College offers a wide range of CCAs, including Debating and Public Speaking, Leadership, English Drama, Music, Basketball (Boys), Canoeing (Boys), Cross Country, Football, Sailing, Table Tennis (Boys), Tennis (Boys), Track and Field, Visual Arts, Frisbee, Dragon Boat, Scouts, Modern Dance, Photography, Students’ Council, and Community Service. These activities support holistic development and are available to both girls and boys unless specified.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=St.%20Joseph%27s%20Institution%20Junior%20College

What facilities does St. Joseph’s Institution Junior College have?
Information not available on the official websites. Parents are advised to contact the school directly at [email protected] or 6250 0022 for details on facilities such as lecture theatres, labs, or sports amenities.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=St.%20Joseph%27s%20Institution%20Junior%20College

Are there scholarship opportunities at St. Joseph’s Institution Junior College?
St. Joseph’s Institution Junior College offers a Scholarship elective as part of its programmes, aimed at high-achieving students. Specific details on application criteria or types of scholarships are not available on the official websites; parents should contact the school for more information on scholarship pathways.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=St.%20Joseph%27s%20Institution%20Junior%20College

What are the school fees for St. Joseph’s Institution Junior College?
As an independent school, St. Joseph’s Institution Junior College charges fees that vary based on nationality and other factors, but specific monthly amounts are not detailed on the MOE site. For the latest fee structure and financial assistance options, visit the school website or contact them directly.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/financial-matters/fees?schoolname=St.%20Joseph%27s%20Institution%20(Junior%20College)

Does St. Joseph’s Institution Junior College offer leadership development?
Yes, leadership development is integrated through CCAs such as Leadership, Community Youth Leadership, Students’ Council, and Student Leadership (House). The IBDP’s CAS component further encourages service and leadership initiatives, helping students build skills for university and careers.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=St.%20Joseph%27s%20Institution%20Junior%20College

What are the university pathways after St. Joseph’s Institution Junior College?
Graduates from St. Joseph’s Institution Junior College with the IB Diploma can apply to local universities like NUS, NTU, or SMU, as well as international institutions, using their IB scores. The programme’s emphasis on research, critical thinking, and global awareness provides strong preparation for higher education; many alumni pursue scholarships or direct entry programmes. Explore MOE’s pre-university resources for application tips.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/secondary/courses/express/integrated-programme

What international collaborations or research opportunities does St. Joseph’s Institution Junior College offer?
Information not available on the official websites. For details on international immersions, research programmes, or partnerships, parents should contact the school to inquire about opportunities like overseas trips or IB-related collaborations.
Source: https://www.moe.gov.sg/schoolfinder/schooldetail?schoolname=St.%20Joseph%27s%20Institution%20Junior%20College

You might want to check out other junior colleges in Singapore below:

Location and Contact

St. Joseph’s Institution Junior College is likely located near the secondary school campus at 20 Upper Thomson Road, Singapore 574404, accessible via Caldecott MRT station and bus services. For inquiries or to arrange a visit, contact the college at:

Phone: 6250 0022
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.sji.edu.sg

Importance of Mathematics in Junior College

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Mathematics is a cornerstone of education, equipping students with critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills essential for success in academics and beyond. At SJI JC, mathematics is a core component of the IBDP, offered as Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches at Higher Level (HL) and Standard Level (SL), preparing students for STEM fields and other disciplines requiring analytical rigor.

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