Emerging 21st Century Competencies at CTSS

In Clementi Town Secondary School, we believe in equipping our students with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to navigate the complexities of the 21st century. Guided by our motto, Aspire & Grow, we are committed to nurturing individuals who are resilient, forward-thinking, and ready to thrive in an ever-changing world.

Our Commitment to E21CC

As a vibrant community of learners, we aim to empower our students with Emerging 21st Century Competencies (E21CC), a set of essential skills that prepare them for study, work, and life. These competencies are increasingly important as students engage with a world that is dynamic, interconnected, and full of new opportunities.

The E21CC are categorised into three key domains:

🔹 Critical, Adaptive, and Inventive Thinking – Encouraging students to think critically, apply metacognitive strategies, and make informed decisions. By fostering creativity and adaptability, we prepare them to tackle uncertainties and solve problems innovatively.

CT Musicals are home-grown productions that instill empathy, respect, and love while showcasing the collaborative efforts of students, teachers, and alumni. Through scriptwriting, directing, choreography, and set design, students engage in critical thinking, problem-solving challenges in storytelling and stage execution.

CTSS’ MARS Applied Learning Programme (ALP) nurtures critical, adaptive, and inventive thinking, preparing students to be future-ready with strong digital literacy. Through hands-on projects and research, students analyse problems and develop solutions. Their participation in events such as the Singapore Science and Engineering Fair 2025 encourages them to innovate and take ownership of their STEM learning.

🔹 Communication, Collaboration, and Information Skills – Equipping students with the ability to express themselves effectively, work cohesively in teams, and manage information responsibly. In a digital age, they learn to engage meaningfully with others and contribute ethically in both online and offline spaces.

Programs like the Secondary 3 Outdoor Adventure Learning Camp and co-curricular activities such as the InfoComm Technology Club nurtures communication, collaboration, and information skills, enabling students to express themselves effectively, work in teams, and manage information responsibly. Through these opportunities, they learn to engage meaningfully and contribute ethically in both online and offline spaces with one another.

🔹 Civic, Global, and Cross-cultural Literacy – Cultivating socially responsible individuals who contribute positively to their community and beyond. Students develop respect, empathy, and integrity as they interact with diverse cultures and perspectives, shaping them into global citizens who uphold the values of service and excellence.

This year, Clementeens hosted elderly guests for a Chinese New Year event and welcomed Thai students to Singapore and to CTSS. Through meaningful interactions, Clementeens develop respect, empathy, and integrity, gaining a deeper appreciation of diverse cultures and perspectives. These experiences shape them into global citizens who uphold the values of service and excellence.

The development of these competencies is anchored in our School Mission, to instill in every Clementeen the passion to learn, the confidence to lead, and the humility to serve. This is further strengthened by our core values:

✅ Adaptability – Embracing change with resilience and agility
✅ Self-discipline – Taking ownership of learning and actions
✅ Perseverance – Overcoming challenges with determination
✅ Integrity – Upholding honesty and strong moral principles
✅ Respect – Valuing others’ perspectives and contributions
✅ Empathy – Understanding and caring for others in a diverse society

Shaping Future-Ready Leaders

By integrating these competencies and values in our teaching and learning, Clementi Town Secondary School prepares students not only for academic success but also for a future where they can lead with confidence, serve with humility, and contribute meaningfully to society. Together, we Aspire & Grow towards a brighter future.