Which co-curricular and extracurricular activities (CCAs or ECAs for short) can kids can get involved in at Singapore international schools?
Whether they’re looking for sports, music, technology or science, there is a huge range of extra options that give students opportunities to try new activities or improve existing skills outside classroom hours. Have a look below at some of the CCAs that are available.
Dulwich College (Singapore) – CCAs from kindergarten through to Senior School
CCAs are available to Kindergarteners (DUCKS), Junior School and Senior School students at Dulwich, with different age groups enjoying different CCAs. Popular with DUCKS are Team Sport, Food Culture Cooking Club, and Chess. Junior School students like Magic, Drama Club and K Pop Dance Club. Senior School students, meanwhile, enjoy Cooking Club, STEM Racing (previously known as F1 in School) and Model United Nations.
Dulwich students compete regionally and globally for the STEM Racing CCA, as well as the World Scholar’s Cup. The school’s team sports provisions – swimming, football, rugby and so on – also include friendly competition with other schools.
Two new CCAs are The Science of Snacks and Magic Makers. In The Science of Snacks, students have the chance to discover the science behind some of their favourite foods through hands-on cooking projects. They dive into why there are so many different types of chocolate, why popcorn pops, or how cupcakes get light and fluffy. In Magic Makers, students learn how to perform magic confidently through a combination of instructor presentation, hands-on instruction, group and individual performances. The skills they learn include Sleight of Hand, Misdirection and various tricks to dazzle the eyes!
Most interesting CCAs
The Forest School CCA provides Dulwich students with the opportunity to continue their Outdoor Learning journey on our very own Forest School site. Curiosity is encouraged through activities like fire safety, plant biology and nature exploration. This fosters scientific inquiry, confidence in decision making and independence in the great outdoors.
Horse Riding and Equestrian Sport is an offsite CCA where students are introduced to the basics of horse riding and pony care in a safe, structured environment. They learn how to mount, steer and trot with support, gradually working towards independence in the saddle. Each session also includes hands-on learning about horse care – such as grooming, feeding and tack maintenance – following the Pony Club UK curriculum.
71 Bukit Batok West Avenue 8
6890 1003 | singapore.dulwich.org
International French School – new extracurricular activities
The International French School (IFS) in Singapore offers a co-curricular programme designed to cater to diverse student interests and talents. This academic year, the top 10 most sought-after activities highlight a strong athletic focus. They include volleyball, football, rugby, climbing, swimming, gymnastics, parkour, roller skating and badminton, alongside the popular practical skill of cooking.
IFS students have various chances to test their skills both locally and internationally. The school’s sports teams regularly compete in local championships, such as a football championship, as well as participate in tournaments with other French schools across the Asia-Pacific region. These AEFE network events not only offer competition but also valuable opportunities for students to explore different countries and cultures. In March 2026, IFS will host the Asia-Pacific Swimming Championship (Championnat d’Asie-Pacifique de Natation – CAPN) with an expected 300 participants.
This Singapore international school recently introduced several new activities to their extracurricular activities programme. Artistic Swimming gives both experienced and beginner student swimmers an artistic approach to aquatic fitness and performance. Adding to the school’s line-up of intense and competitive physical activities is Wrestling. On the performance side, Musical Comedy lets students explore the world of theatre, music and comedy in workshops.
The school is continually enriching the students’ educational experience and fostering personal growth through new CCA and extracurricular offerings. Recent additions include Aquathlon/Water-polo, touch rugby, self-defence and book explorers.
Most interesting CCAs
Pickleball is rapidly becoming the new must-try activity in Elementary. Its accessible nature – a mash-up of tennis, badminton and ping-pong – makes it easy for beginners to master and instantly enjoyable. Koh Lanta: Challenges and Adventure Games is a thrilling adventure-based CCA where students tackle logic puzzles and strength tests.
3000 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 3
6805 0000 | ifs.edu.sg
UWCSEA – abundance of extracurricular activities and CCAs
At UWCSEA, extracurricular activities or CCAs are simply called Activities. The programme is integral to learning alongside Academics, Outdoor Education, Personal and Social Education and Service. Starting in K1 through Grade 12, the Activities programme supports students in exploring interests, developing strengths and pursuing their passions, providing many choices over four “seasons” in a school year.
These include competitive and recreational sports; visual and performing arts such as music, drama, and dance; service initiatives; and both curriculum-based and enrichment activities offered at the East and Dover campuses.
In Grades 2 to 5, a student might choose Spies and Secret Agents, which is a STEM programme for aspiring spymasters who discover the science behind spy gadgets and gizmos. For Middle school, Artistic Swimming offers a comprehensive and dynamic training experience designed to develop technical skills and also the creativity, teamwork, and passion that make the sport truly unique.
In High School, several student-led activities and special interest groups allow a deeper dive into specific areas like Chinese Medicine Club, Ears of East Politics Podcast Club and MATE ROV, a club that works on underwater robotics challenges, testing robots in the College pool.
Opportunities to develop confidence and leadership skills start as early as Primary school through participation in Activities. This includes music and drama performances, debate clubs and teams, student councils, local, regional and international competitions for MUN, Mathematics, Investment, sports and many others.
Most interesting CCAs
Fashion Design for Grades 2 to 8 is a vibrant, hands-on after-school workshop. It takes students through the full design process – from crafting mood boards through to experimenting with embroidery and fabric manipulation – while creating a garment that reflects their personal style, story and creative voice. They develop visual storytelling, collaboration and problem-solving skills, while discovering the power of fashion as a form of expression.
Ethical decision-making, shared responsibility and using financial literacy as a force for positive change are what drive the UWCSEA East Dragons Investment Society. Students in High School (Grade 9 to 12) undertake several projects such as introducing Middle School peers to personal finance, organising financial wellbeing forums for staff, and participating in the KWHS Investment Competition supported by the Wharton School.
St Joseph’s Institution International – CCAs from Elementary through to High School
The CCA programme at SJI International is an integral pillar of the school’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded students from Elementary through to High School. The school says this extensive programme is a vibrant platform for growth and skill development, preparing students for future challenges.
In the Elementary School, students choose from a broad offering of over 70 CCAs each term. The aim is to expose students to a variety of experiences that advance their skills and knowledge. Recent additions include Junior Investors, Portrait Painting and Rhythmic Gymnastics. To ensure quality, the school partners with leading providers such as Barca Academy for Football, Julia Gabriel for Speech and Drama, and the National Equestrian Centre.
The High School offers over 150 diverse CCAs each term. The school says that this robust programme is intentionally structured to underpin the core elements of the IB Diploma’s Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) component. Under the guidance of dedicated teachers and experts, students refine talents through popular choices like Model United Nations (MUN), the World Scholar’s Cup, and creative initiatives including Boat Building and Crafty Crew.
Competition is a core component of CCAs and extracurriculars. The school’s teams have achieved notable success in the Athletic Conference of Singapore International Schools (ACSIS) league and international events. Students also shine in academic tournaments and successful student-run TEDx events.
Most interesting CCAs
The school’s deep commitment to Service is evident through more than 60 service-focused CCAs. Strong relationships with community partners like Tan Tock Seng Hospital and TOUCH Home Care inspire students to make a meaningful difference, fostering a lifelong commitment to social responsibility and active citizenship.
490 Thomson Road
6353 9383 | sji-international.com.sg
Singapore American School – extracurricular activities and athletic programmes
At SAS, education extends well beyond academics, with CCA and extracurricular activities central to shaping well-rounded, purpose-driven learners who thrive not only in the classroom but also on the stage, the playing field, and in the wider world.
From elementary to high school, students are encouraged to explore their passions, develop new skills, and challenge themselves in the arts, activities and athletics.
The designed pathways programme provides students with opportunities to discover and deepen interests over time. Beginning at the foundational level in elementary school and progressing to advanced opportunities in middle and high school, these pathways guide students toward growth in both the arts and athletics.
Creativity flourishes at SAS through visual arts, music, dance, theatre, debate and Modern United Nations. These programmes build confidence, critical thinking and global awareness. Equally strong is athletics, offering opportunities in soccer, volleyball, basketball, rugby/touch, swimming, tennis, baseball/softball, golf and more. Many student-athletes represent SAS in the Interscholastic Association of Southeast Asian Schools (IASAS), the ACSIS, and regional tournaments.
Most interesting CCAs
Beyond sports and arts, SAS students engage in service clubs, robotics, math competitions, student government and large-scale productions. They often travel abroad to represent the school.
40 Woodlands Street 41
6363 3403 | sas.edu.sg
Marlborough College Malaysia – extracurricular activities outdoors
At Marlborough College Malaysia, CCAs are an essential part of school life – they offer pupils the chance to pursue passions, develop skills and discover new interests. Among the most popular activities are swimming, tennis, gymnastics, rugby, netball, football, basketball, badminton, drama, music ensembles and Model United Nations.
High-level performance squads provide pathways for talented athletes. They include Gold, Silver and Bronze Swim Squads, Prep and Senior Tennis Performance Squads, as well as specialist rugby, netball and gymnastics training. Many of these squads compete against leading international schools. Meanwhile, debating, chess and music ensembles represent the College in regional events. Recent additions include fencing, judo and taekwondo, alongside new opportunities in robotics, investment challenges and sustainability leadership.
Pupils also engage in outreach programmes such as Chinese New Year celebrations, and adventurous training through Spartan Tough Mudder, mountain biking and paddling expeditions.
Most interesting CCAs
Two of the most unique CCAs are Sailing and Barton Farm. Sailing offers pupils hands-on experience on the water, while Barton Farm enables pupils to cultivate crops such as bananas and sugarcane, later used in the school’s dining hall. The Farm has also welcomed three new pygmy goats, which the pupils help care for as part of the CCA. These activities reflect MCM’s commitment to broad, balanced and distinctive extracurricular experiences beyond the classroom.
Jalan Marlborough, Puteri Harbour, Johor
+60 7 560 2200 | marlboroughcollegemalaysia.org
Tanglin Trust School’s holistic co-curricular activities programme
The Co-Curricular programme at Tanglin lies at the heart of the school’s holistic approach to education. It aims to nurture students’ talents beyond the classroom while promoting confidence, creativity and encouraging community contribution.
Beginning in the Infant School and continuing through to the Senior School, the school’s CCA pathway offers a huge range of opportunities. The 2025 CCA programme sees 2,652 students participating in 383 activities, spanning music, drama, sport, service learning and outdoor education. The school’s restructured Shape of the Day ensures CCAs are embedded within the timetable. This way, every student can engage fully without compromising academic time.
Recent developments, such as the new Junior Arts Centre and the opening of Tanglin Gippsland in Australia, further demonstrate the school’s investment in experiential and creative learning.
A word from a staff member
“Captaining a team, playing first desk in the orchestra or choreographing the dance showcase are huge honours. These opportunities often appeal to students who might not step forward for traditional leadership roles. Supporting them to lead within their comfort zone is a powerful way to nurture growth – often without them even realising it.”
– Sophie Hawkins, Deputy Head of Co-Curriculum at Tanglin Trust School
95 Portsdown Road
6778 0771 | tts.edu.sg
North London Collegiate School (Singapore) – from F1 to photography
NLCS (Singapore) offers a wide range of academic, sporting and artistic enrichment co-curricular and extracurricular activities to cater to students’ diverse interests and talents. They include Scuba, Photography, Golf, LAMDA, Orchestra and Videography. There are new CCAs, too, such as Geography Society, Kids Discovery Works: MasterChef Science, F1 in Schools, and Ascend Now Entrepreneurship.
Students participating in F1 in Schools work in teams of three to six to design, test and race their very own miniature CO2-powered F1 car. Teams from NLCS (Singapore) will competed at the F1 Singapore Nationals in November 2024 for the first time, and Team Mercuri.x won the Best Video Presentation Award. In Ascend Now Entrepreneurship, students hone entrepreneurial skills. They’ll present their project to a panel of seasoned investors in a competition that models Shark Tank.
The most popular extracurricular activities among the students are Model United Nations (MUN), Vocabulous!, Chess, Drawing Studio, Dungeons and Dragons, Competitive Coding, Knitting and Tufting, Climbing Wall, Lego and Prodigy Maths.
Through their CCAs, the students also actively engage in a variety of competitions. These include MUN and the Maths Olympiad, the Nancy Rothwell Award, Diamond Challenge, John Locke Essay Competition and FOBISIA Code Breaking Challenge. Additionally, the school is a member of the Athletic Conference of Singapore International Schools and the Federation of British International Schools in Asia.
Two interesting CCAs
Vocabulous! sees Senior School students support local school children in Grade 3 from lower income backgrounds by teaching them vocabulary online. Students in publishing societies such as Lituresque, the Editorial Arts Society and Pulse Science Magazine explore a wide variety of topics outside of the regular school curriculum. They also share their written works with the school community in the form of a published magazine.
130 Depot Road
6989 3000 | nlcssingapore.sg
Swiss School in Singapore – plenty of extracurricular activities
The Swiss School in Singapore offers a wide range of extracurricular activities designed to nurture students’ interests and talents beyond the classroom. The most popular include Football, Chinese, Tennis, Rhythmic Gymnastics, Fun in the Kitchen, UniHockey, Aviation, Coding Robotics & Engineering, and Parkour.
Students also have the chance to represent the school in football and swimming competitions, building teamwork, confidence and sportsmanship.
This Singapore International school recently expanded its ECA programme to include innovative options such as 3D Printing: Let’s Design City Planning, Lego Robotics and Problem Solving, Little Einstein Lab, Art Lab: Where Science and Arts Meet, Clay Modelling, Creative Movement and Grooves, Kiddo Fit, and Sustainability in the Arts. This wider selection gives students even more opportunities to explore STEAM, movement and creativity.
Most interesting extracurricular activities
A unique extracurricular activity is 3D Printing: Let’s Design City Planning. Students use computer-aided design and 3D printing to create sustainable urban layouts. The Inner Child Mind, meawhile, is an extracurricular activity focusing on emotional wellbeing, mindfulness and creative self-expression. These two activities reflect the school’s commitment to holistic education, helping students thrive academically, socially and personally.
38 Swiss Club Road
6468 2117 | swiss-school.edu.sg
Like this article on CCAs and extracurricular activities at Singapore international schools? Read on to hear what parents have to say about Singapore’s international schools. Also, get ideas for the best things to do in Singapore with kids!
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