Applied Learning Programme (ALP)

Unleashing Future Innovators:

Our Signature STEM Applied Learning Programme (ALP)

AI-Driven STEM: Building Skills for a Changing World

At Peirce Secondary School, we are committed to preparing our students for a rapidly evolving, technology-driven world. Our STEM Applied Learning Programme (ALP), introduced in 2025, provides an integrated and authentic learning experience that develops students’ Artificial Intelligence (AI) literacy, technological skills and 21st Century Competencies (21CC) through real-world problem solving.

Anchored in project-based learning, the programme nurtures students to be curious, self-directed and resilient learners who are able to think critically, collaborate effectively, and create meaningful solutions using technology.

A Strong Foundation for All: Tier 1 STEM ALP

Our Tier 1 programme is designed for all lower secondary students, ensuring broad access and meaningful exposure to STEM learning. Through a structured and hands-on curriculum, students build foundational skills in coding, artificial intelligence (AI), and design thinking.

Students will:

• Build Computational Thinking and Coding Skills
  Learn programming through microcontrollers, developing logical thinking and problem-solving skills while creating interactive prototypes. 

• Explore AI in Meaningful Contexts
  Understand how AI works, examine its impact on society, and learn to use AI tools responsibly to support ideation, design, and problem-solving. 

• Develop Design Thinking Mindsets
  Apply human-centred design processes to identify problems, generate ideas, prototype solutions, and refine them through testing. 

• Strengthen Communication and Collaboration
  Work in teams to present ideas, document their thinking, and communicate solutions clearly and effectively. 

• Understand Technology in the Real World
  Appreciate how artificial intelligence and automation shape everyday life and future industries. 

Create and Prototype in the Makerspace

Design and fabricate functional prototypes using tools such as 3D printers and laser cutters, translating ideas into tangible solutions through iterative making.

Learning in the STEM ALP is anchored in authentic, hands-on projects.

• Secondary 1: Students work on curated STEM projects (e.g. robotic grand prix), applying coding, electronics, and design thinking skills. 

• Secondary 2: Students deepen their learning through more complex projects, with opportunities to integrate STEM into Values-in-Action (VIA) initiatives, where they design solutions to address real community needs. 

Through these experiences, students learn to iterate, problem-solve, and see the relevance of STEM in improving lives.

Deepening Passion and Expertise: Tier 2 STEAM Makerspace

For students with a deeper interest in STEM, our Tier 2 opportunities provide platforms to further develop their skills and passions.

In our STEM Makerspace, students will:

• Prototype and Innovate
  Engage in advanced projects that integrate engineering, coding, and design, including interactive art and smart systems. 

• Leverage AI as a Tool
  Use AI to support ideation, coding, data analysis, and documentation, enhancing both creativity and productivity. 

Through collaboration with Singapore Polytechnic, the Tier 2 students experience a progressive four-year pathway that blends science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. 

Students with strong interest and aptitude are further supported through enrichment and competition opportunities, including national-level projects and STEM competitions. These platforms allow students to deepen their expertise, collaborate with like-minded peers, and challenge themselves beyond the classroom.