Is your child interested in coding, robotics, STEM or innovation and aspires to excel in these fields? The Direct School Admissions (DSA) program is the perfect opportunity for your child to leverage on these skills, apply to top secondary schools and secure a spot in these specialized programs, bypassing the traditional PSLE route. As the DSA program is highly competitive, it’s essential to prepare thoroughly to create a comprehensive portfolio and help your child refine their skills for DSA assessments and interviews. Here are some tips for parents, to support their child in acing DSA assessments and interviews for coding, robotics and STEM-focused schools.
1. Guild your child in choosing the right track
Begin by discussing with your child, which track they would like to pursue for the DSA program. There are 3 key requirements schools will look for in a DSA application, namely: good competition experience, a personalized portfolio, and a well-prepared interview. However, beyond the documents that you need to submit, your child needs to be genuinely interested in the area that he/she is applying for DSA. Consider these essential criteria before deciding to apply through the DSA route.
2. Research and find out more about the DSA program
Ensure that you take the time to research about the school’s requirements for their DSA program under coding, robotics or STEM. Understand the competitions, CCAs and special programs offered by the school, attend open houses or seek input from friends and family whose children are in the school’s DSA program. You may consider enrolling your child in enrichment centres with reputable DSA programs that can tailor your child’s portfolio according to the requirements of the schools.
3. Building a strong portfolio
Work with your child and teachers to create a portfolio showcasing their passion for coding, robotics and STEM. This might include projects like creating apps, robots or websites that contribute to the community or environment. Students should be encouraged to join national competitions to demonstrate dedication and willingness to face challenges as well. At Empire Code, we provide guidance based on school requirements and students’ experiences. This ensures every child’s portfolio is catered to the preferences of your preferred schools.
4. Strengthening technical skills
Coding and robotics require technical expertise. If your child gets shortlisted, your child will need to attend their interviews or robotics/coding tests in multiple rounds. Help your child practice their basic coding foundations, logic tests, and robotics projects to ace their hands-on skills.
5. Preparing for interviews
Clear communication skills are essential during interviews. Practice basic interview questions with your child, which includes introducing themselves, discussing motivations, aspirations, & challenges faced during their coding journey. Students are encouraged to highlight experiences from competitions, extracurricular activities (CCAs) and personal projects. Ensure that they can explain their thought processes coherently and consistently. During interviews, judges often seek passionate candidates who align with the school’s culture. Furthermore, stay informed about coding trends, technological advancements and current news to demonstrate dedication to the field. Ultimately, encourage authenticity and self-confidence during the interview day.
By following these guidelines, there is a higher chance to secure a spot in your child’s dream school. This is a good opportunity to develop your child’s skills and showcase your child’s passion in coding, robotics and STEM. At Empire Code, you can know more about the DSA program through our monthly free open house info-sessions, or schedule a free phone call with us.