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Course Overview

 

The Polytechnic Foundation Programme (PFP@TP) is a one-year programme provided by the Centre for Foundation Studies to provide a head start for the top Secondary 4 Normal (Academic) students at the Singapore-Cambridge GCE N(A) Level Examinations in Temasek Polytechnic. Instead of taking the GCE O Level Examinations in Secondary 5, eligible students can join PFP@TP before admission to their pre-selected diploma courses.


The PFP curriculum consists of five common subjects and two domain cluster subjects each semester. PFP students go through a modular credit system, where credit units are awarded for every subject they complete.


The PFP curriculum follows Temasek Polytechnic’s academic calendar, which runs in two semesters. Lessons are conducted in small groups.

 

View the brochure for essential information about the programme.

Entry Requirements

Secondary 4 N(A) students who are eligible for the PFP will be invited to apply through the Polytechnic Foundation Programme Admission Exercise (PFPAE) in January.

 

They should first progress to Secondary 5 before the commencement of the application process.


Eligible N(A) students who have done well for Singapore-Cambridge GCE N(A) Level examination will be invited to apply for the Polytechnic Diploma courses of their choice under PFP.


To be eligible to apply for the PFP, N(A) students must:
 

  1. Obtain ELMAB3 (English Language, Mathematics, Best 3 subjects) raw aggregate score of 12 points or better (excluding CCA bonus point) at the GCE N(A) Level examination; and
  2. Meet the following subject-specific requirements:

Please note that the information on this website is applicable to the programme for AY2024 admission year.

 

For Courses featured in Group 1 Minimum Required Grades
English Language Syllabus A 3
Mathematics (Syllabus A / Additional) 3

One of the following relevant subjects:

  • Science (Physics, Chemistry)
  • Science (Physics, Biology)
  • Science (Chemistry, Biology)
  • Nutrition and Food Science
  • Design and Technology
3
Any two other subjects excluding CCA 4

 

For Courses featured in Group 2 Minimum Required Grades
English Language Syllabus A 2
Mathematics (Syllabus A / Additional) 3

One of the following relevant subjects:

  • Principles of Accounts
  • Literature in English
  • History
  • Humanities (Social Studies, Geography)
  • Humanities (Social Studies, History)
  • Humanities (Social Studies, Literature in English)
  • Geography
  • Art
3
Any two other subjects excluding CCA 4


Below is an example of how aggregate score is computed:
 

Subjects Grades
English Language Syllabus A 2
Mathematics (Syllabus A / Additional) 3

Science (Physics, Chemistry)

1

Humanities (Social Studies, Geography)

Humanities (Social Studies, History)

Humanities (Social Studies, Literature in English)

2
Mother Tongue 2

Raw ELMAB3 Aggregate: 2+3+1+2+2 = 10

 

 

For N(A) students who have sat for certain subject(s) in the GCE O Level examination, the following conversion matrix will be adopted during the computation of aggregate.
 

GCE O Level Grade Aggregate Point for PFP
A1 - B3 1
B4 - C6 2
D7 3
E8 4

What You'll Learn

PFP@TP offers a practice-oriented curriculum specially designed to:

 

  • Lay a strong foundation through applied and group-based learning
  • Provide students a foretaste of chosen diplomas
  • Enable an encouraging and nurturing transition to tertiary education
  • Develop self-directedness in learning and desired real world competencies

Assessments & Academic Progression

How you will be assessed?

 

How do you progress to Year 1 of the diploma course?


To progress to Year 1
 

  • You must pass all modules of the PFP
  • You must work consistently and put in your best effort during PFP


NB: You are not allowed to repeat PFP


The following will be in place to help you:


 Academic Support

  • Appropriate learning support will be provided to students who require additional help
  • Intervention measures will be implemented for those who are at risk

 Learning Experience

  • Facilities and resources to provide an applied learning and engaging curriculum
  • Opportunities to acquire good study habits as well as 21st century competencies

 Communication

  • Important information will be disseminated through different communications platforms
  • Partnerships between parents/guardians and faculty will be established
  • Close monitoring and feedback throughout the semester of academic progress

Click here to view the list of courses available after your PFP completion.


Course Review

At TP, we strongly believe in providing our students with a well-rounded educational experience that also contributes to their personal enrichment. PFP students can look forward to a range of out-of-class activities, designed to enhance what they experience in class and to encourage interaction with other PFP students.


In this section, we are proud to showcase our PFP students – past and present – and their achievements.

Learn more about our student achievements here.

Why PFP@TP

Source: The Straits Times © Singapore Press Holdings Limited. Reproduced with permission

Course Schedule

The following tables reflect the course structure for Semester 1 and Semester 2 in the individual schools. Click here to download this information from our PFP Brochure.

 

Common Subjects Language & Communication 1
Research & Reasoning 1
Mathematics & Logical Thinking 1
Personal Development & Effectiveness 1
Fitness & Wellness 1
Schools Applied Science Business Design Engineering Humanities & Social Sciences Informatics & IT
Domain Cluster Subjects Living Chemistry 1 Understanding Customers Understanding Design Engineering Science 1 Basic Principles & Applications in Psychology Introduction to Computer Science
Living Biology 1 Financial Aspects of Business Understanding Form Prototyping

Sociological Perspectives

Professional IT Skills

 

Common Subjects Language & Communication 2
Research & Reasoning 2
Mathematics & Logical Thinking 2
Personal Development & Effectiveness 2
Fitness & Wellness 2
Schools Applied Science Business Design Engineering Humanities & Social Sciences Informatics & IT
Domain Cluster Subjects Living Chemistry 2 Business Management with Technology Visual Storytelling Engineering Science 2 Fundamentals of Lifespan Development Logic & Algorithm
Living Biology 2 Understanding Business Environment Colour Appreciation Computing & Programming

Introduction to Group Facilitation

Social Media & IT Trends

Subject Synopses

Subject Code Subject
KCS1F01 Language & Communication 1

This subject exposes you to a variety of texts to cultivate an appreciation of a wide range of authentic discourses. You will also develop purposeful communication skills and language use in context. Language skills and features associated with applicable genres are delivered thematically.

KCS1F02 Language & Communication 2

This subject builds on the knowledge and skills acquired in Language & Communication 1, and spirals to a higher level of proficiency and sophistication. Delivered thematically, Language & Communication 2 introduces you to critical thinking, listening, reading and writing skills.

KCS1F03 Research & Reasoning 1

This subject introduces you to Information Literacy which covers inquiry, technology and media literacy skills as these critical life skills are needed in today’s digital education, research and the work environment. Topics taught include accessing, evaluating and synthesising information obtained through different sources, avoiding plagiarism and applying referencing protocol, and communicating information effectively through media production.

KCS1F04 Research & Reasoning 2

This subject spirals to a higher level of difficulty and sophistication and provides additional opportunities for you to apply research and reasoning skills in a group research project. Topics taught include developing an opinion statement, evaluating information and its sources critically, using information effectively, individually or as member of a group, to accomplish a specific product and demonstrating the use of information ethically and legally.

KMA1F01 Mathematics & Logical Thinking 1

This subject equips you with fundamental arithmetic and algebraic knowledge and logical thinking skill through problem solving. Topics covered include Number Operations and Approximation; Ratios; Percentages; Algebraic Representation and Manipulation; Solving of Algebraic Equations and Logarithm.

KMA1F02 Mathematics & Logical Thinking 2

This subject equips you with geometrical, trigonometrical and statistical knowledge for problem solving. Topics covered include Graphs; Mensuration; Trigonometry; Calculus; Set Theory and Statistics & Probability.

KPL1F01 Personal Development & Effectiveness 1

This subject aims to develop you to become effective learners with good character as you make your transitional journey towards polytechnic education. It provides the theoretical concepts and practical arena for you to examine and build upon your cognitive, psychological, social and moral domains. 

KPL1F02 Personal Development & Effectiveness 2

This subject aims to develop you to become effective learners with good character as you make your transitional journey towards polytechnic education. It enables you to learn values through hands-on activities, enhances your personal development in the social and community domains and bridges your knowledge and skills to your character education programme.

KPW1F01 Fitness & Wellness 1 and KPW1F02 Fitness & Wellness 2

These subjects promote physical and mental wellbeing by introducing you to the fundamentals of exercise and the various components of physical fitness such as flexibility, strength and endurance. You will gain an understanding of the basic principles of exercise through activities such as spinning bike and Swiss ball workouts. Theoretical knowledge such as weight management and injury prevention will also be covered. In addition, you will also have the opportunity to experience the rigour of a sports module such as dance, self-defence and/or adventure learning programme in a social and recreational setting.

Subject Code Subject
ABM1F01 Living Biology 1

This subject introduces the basic concepts in cell and organization, fundamentals of genetics and microbiology. In this subject, students will perform basic laboratory techniques and procedures in cell biology and microbiology.

ABM1F02 Living Biology 2

This subject introduces the fundamental concepts of metabolism, anatomy and physiology of the human body. Students will also perform basic laboratory techniques and procedures required in biochemistry.

ACH1F01 Living Chemistry 1

The subject introduces students to the fundamental concepts and practical knowledge of chemistry.  Topics included are measurements, atomic structure, chemical bonding, chemical reactions, periodic table and periodicity.

ACH1F02 Living Chemistry 2

The subject introduces students to the fundamental concepts in stoichiometry and mole concept, the basic properties of acids, bases and salts, and the physical and chemical properties of alkanes, alkenes, alcohols and carboxylic acids.  It also introduces students to the basic practical skills required in chemistry.

Subject Code Subject
BEC1F02 Understanding Business Environment

The subject aims to equip students with knowledge of the external environments which businesses operate in. Apart from an organisation’s internal structures and operations, students should also be aware of the political/legal, economic, socio-cultural, technological and ecological environments (PESTE) and understand how these forces impact business organisations.

BMK1F02 Understanding Customers

This subject aims to provide a basic understanding of customers and the key concepts in building customer relations. Key topics include the marketplace and customer needs, customer buying decision process and basic marketing and digital tools that organisations use to enhance customer experience. 

BBS1F02 Business Management with Technology

The subject provides an introduction to concepts of business and management. It also covers the organisational structure, as well as the importance of team dynamics for effective performance and achievement of organisational goals. Students will also be introduced to fundamental IT skills to manage a business with greater accuracy and efficiency.

BAF1F02 Financial Aspects of Business

The subject aims to equip students with basic finance and accounting knowledge with a business focus. Students will learn how to read financial statements that portray the profitability and financial stability of businesses. They will also be taught how to leverage on financial information and adopt basic accounting tools to facilitate business planning and decision making. 

Subject Code Subject
DUD1F01 Understanding Design

This subject prepares you in understanding of the role of Design, and introduces you to the basic knowledge of Design and its different applications.

DCA1F01 Colour Appreciation

This subject equips you to appreciate and have fun working with colour, based on the application of colour theory and colour schemes. 

DVS1F01 Visual Storytelling

This subject helps you consolidate design learning and also learn to use design as a form of expression. You will primarily use your drawing skills to develop a storyboard sequence to express yourself. You may also choose to develop this storyboard into a video or series of collages.

DUF1F01 Understanding Form

This subject introduces you to appreciate and explore visual and physical attributes of form by observation and application of principles that are fundamental to Design. 

Subject Code Subject
EES1F01 Engineering Science 1

This subject provides you with the knowledge and skills to explain basic concepts of general Physics which include energy, matter, and their Inter-relationships. The topics taught include Speed; Velocity; Acceleration; Forces; Mass; Density; Turning Effects of Forces; Moments; Gravity and Stability.

EPT1F01 Prototyping

This subject imparts the practical skills of building a project, and helps you to understand the process cycle on completing the prototype. It also introduces the use of mechanical hand-tools, electrical and standard electronics laboratory tools and equipment.

EES1F02 Engineering Science 2

This subject provides the core physics knowledge on electricity and magnetism which include wave properties, electricity principles, circuit analysis, electro-magnetism and introductory electronics.

ECP1F01 Computing & Programming

This subject provides you with a fundamental coverage of the major software and hardware elements in computing and programming. It introduces the elements involved within a computer program and enables you to apply fundamental concepts in analysing, designing, implementing, debugging and testing programs.

Subject Code Subject
GFP1F01 Sociological Perspectives

This subject discusses the main sociological perspectives that will enable students to understand and analyse social issues in society. Students will have the opportunity to link their personal experiences to social issues and processes in the broader society.

GFP1F02 Basic Principles & Applications in Psychology

This subject introduces students to a basic understanding of psychology as the scientific study of human behaviour and mental processes. This subject will explore areas such as cognitive, developmental, physiological, social and abnormal psychology covering basic topics like learning, memory, intelligence, personality, emotion, motivation and stress management. 

GFP1F03 Fundamentals of Lifespan Development

This subject explores topics (e.g. physical development, language, cognition) related to human growth and development from conception, through critical life-stages, and to the end of the human life cycle. Theories on the interaction between biological, cognitive and psycho-social factors that influence a person’s development, will also be examined.

GFP1F04 Introduction to Group Facilitation

This subject explores strategies to plan and facilitate effective group interactions, and collaborative work. Specific methods to empower, direct and guide diverse groups and promote optimal group dynamics are also examined. 

Subject Code Subject
CFP1F01 Introduction to Computer Science

This subject introduces you to the world of computing, providing an insight into the history of computing, computing and the internet, computer organisation, networking and security.

CFP1F02 Professional IT Skills

This subject equips you with skills to use software applications efficiently to analyse data, design web pages, create digital presentations and manage the software development process.

CFP1F03 Logic & Algorithm

This subject introduces you to computing logic. It teaches the techniques and practical strategies to solve problems through topics like algorithm design and in the process, it builds analytical and problem-solving skills which would form the foundation for future programming subjects.

CFP1F04 Social Media & IT Trends

This subject introduces you to the ways in which businesses and organisations are embracing social media and digital technologies. Topics covered include the impact of social media and digital technologies, the influence of these media and technologies, and the strategies adopted to leverage better on these media and technologies to enhance business opportunities.

Online application will commence on the same day as the release of the Singapore - Cambridge GCE 'O' Level examination results. Application will be held over a period of 5 calendar days.

Selection Process
 

Applicants are posted to a course based on merit according to their raw aggregate scores minus CCA bonus point. Applicants with better net aggregate scores will be considered for admission first, subject to the availability of vacancies in the selected course.
 

Types of Bonus Points No. of Bonus Points Awarded
Grades of A1 - A2 2 points
Grades of B3 - C6 1 point

 

Posting
 

Posting results:

Applicants will be able to check their posting results online at the Polytechnic Foundation Programme Admissions Exercise website.

Student will be required to indicate whether they wish to accept, reject or appeal for a change of course.

Enquiries related to PFPAE:

Read the list of FAQs available at the Polytechnic Foundation Programme Admissions Exercise website.

Send an email to help-pfp@polytechnic.edu.sg.

Enrolment Period: Successful PFP applicants will receive their enrolment packages by early March.
Special Educational Needs Students with Special Educational Needs (SEN) applying for a course in TP can contact Admissions Office at 6788 2000 or email us at admissions@tp.edu.sg for course advisement.
Medical Requirements: Information on Medical Requirements can be found here.

Course Fees


For more information on course fees, please click here.

PFP Channels

Contact

Contact Details for Admission & Application Enquiries:

Tel: 67802000

Email: admissions@tp.edu.sg

  • 67804220
  • 8.30 am to 6.00 pm (Mon to Thu) 8.30 am to 5.30 pm (Fri) Closed on Sat, Sun & Public Holidays
  • Website: https://www.tp.edu.sg/centre-for-foundation-studies
  • Centre for Foundation Studies
    Temasek Polytechnic
    Block 13, Level 3, Unit 81, (Near Lift Lobby E)
    21 Tampines Ave 1
    Singapore 529757

  • Temasek Polytechnic reserves the right to alter the course, modify the scale of fee, amend any other information or cancel course with low enrolment.

Please note that the information on this website is applicable to the programme for AY2024 and AY2025 admission years.