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Singapore Government

Enhanced STEP-UP

Enhanced STEP-UP

What is Enhanced STEP-UP (ESU)?

ESU is a 12-month intervention programme provided by the Integrated Service Providers (ISPs), targeted at students with chronic absenteeism.

The objective of ESU is to provide holistic case management services to students with chronic absenteeism so that they are supported to remain in school or be meaningfully engaged. 

Referral Criteria

To be eligible for ESU, the child/youth must be:

  • a Singapore citizen/PR below 21 years old
  • a student in an approved learning institute* with an absenteeism rate of 20% or more
  • Not in MOE's GEAR-UP Programme, other MSF-funded programmes or under a Court Order

*The learning institute is an MOE school, including autonomous schools, independent schools, specialised schools and ITEs.

How can I refer a child/youth for ESU?

  • Schools should refer students to the ISP region which the school is situated in. In instances where the student has been absent for an extended period, schools may consider referring the student to the ISP that is closer to the student’s residence. This is in consideration that the ISP caseworker would need to conduct more outreach such as home visits.
  • Schools can refer students for ESU, and inform the parent/caregiver about the ESU referral. Schools should schedule an Introductory Meeting (IM) involving the school liaison officer, student, parent/caregiver and ISP caseworker. At the IM, the school and ISP caseworker can jointly share on ESU and address any questions the student or parent may have. Parental consent is obtained before proceeding with the programme.
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