By Jane Ng

RAFFLES Junior College is looking at offering a broad-based two-year diploma covering everything from philosophy to science as an alternative to the A levels.

It would be one of a handful of Singapore schools to offer the International Baccalaureate, which is recognised worldwide.

The school in Bishan submitted a proposal to the Education Ministry two months ago and is currently awaiting approval for the diploma.

Widely regarded as more difficult than the A levels, students have to take six subjects, including those in experimental sciences, mathematics and the arts. In addition, students have to take a course combining philosophy, religion and logical reasoning, launch a community service project, and write a 4,000-word essay.

Principal Lim Lai Cheng said that the diploma will give students more choices.

Raffles JC is hoping to start the programme in 2010. About 20 per cent of the school's roughly 2,600 students are expected to take the diploma, with the majority still opting for the A levels.

Meanwhile, Raffles JC also has plans to start a liberal arts school and various research institutes.

'A lot of high ability students are with us,' said Mr Seah Chye Ann, the dean of academic studies.

'We're not doing them justice if we don't let them try these specialised areas at the JC level, where they can experiment to see how far they can go.'

The school of liberal arts will work with the existing humanities centre to offer electives like classes on Indian, Middle Eastern and Chinese culture, as well as a public policy programme. There will also be a host of research institutes sited on campus, ranging from science to physical education. Specialist mentors will guide the students through the courses.

Students will no longer have to travel to the National University of Singapore or Nanyang Technological University for their research projects. They can do the work on campus in laboratories focusing on quantum technology, biodiversity and water technology.

Under the Gryphon Institute for Sports and Physical Education, the JC's student athletes, some of whom represent the nation, will get the help of experts in sports psychology, nutrition and physiotherapy.

Plans are underway for a mentorship programme, sports electives and collaborations and internships with institutions abroad, such those in Australia.

This article was first published in The Straits Times on July 21, 2008.