Singapore has plenty of Math Olympiad tuition centres. Every one of them claims to be the best. Brochures promise results. Websites showcase medals. But how do you tell which centre will actually help your child?
The decision matters more than you might think. The right centre can transform your child's mathematical abilities, build genuine confidence, and open doors to top schools. The wrong choice leads to frustration, wasted time, and a child who ends up disliking mathematics even more.
This guide gives you a practical framework for evaluating Math Olympiad centres. By the end, you will know exactly what to look for and what questions to ask.
Key Factors to Evaluate When Choosing a Math Olympiad Centre
Not all centres deliver the same quality. Here are the factors that separate the excellent from the average.
Teaching Methodology
This is the most important factor. Look for:
A documented, research-backed approach. Quality centres have a clear teaching philosophy that goes beyond simply drilling students with practice papers. Terry Chew Academy's RA*CE Framework, for example, is based on Singapore MOE's 21st Century Core Competencies and emphasises critical thinking over rote memorisation.
Focus on understanding, not just getting answers. The best methodologies teach students how to think through problems, not just how to apply memorised procedures.
Red flags to watch for:
- Centres that rely mainly on drilling without teaching concepts
- No clear explanation of their teaching approach when asked
- One-size-fits-all instruction with no adaptation to individual students
Commitment to Individual Progress
Claims of success mean nothing without substance. When evaluating a centre's track record, look beyond surface-level numbers and ask deeper questions:
- Does the centre have a clear, research-backed teaching methodology?
- Do coaches assess each student individually and adjust the learning path accordingly?
- Is progress tracked consistently to identify and address gaps?
- Does the centre recognise that the Math Olympiad is advanced mathematics, and that meaningful improvement takes time and appropriate pacing?
A centre worth trusting is one that values the learning journey over headlines. Every student comes with different strengths and a different starting point. The right centre respects that, builds confidence progressively, and equips students with skills that compound over time in competitions, in school, and beyond.
At Terry Chew Academy, this is reflected in the RA*CE Framework, a structured, personalised approach that meets each student where they are and develops the critical thinking skills needed for long-term mathematical growth.
Coach Qualifications and Experience
Teachers determine the quality of education. Evaluate:
Professional qualifications. Are coaches MOE-registered? Do they have relevant academic credentials in mathematics?
Personal competition experience. Coaches who have personally competed in Math Olympiad understand the challenges from the inside. Look for coaches with competition medals or significant Olympiad experience.
Specialist training. Does the centre invest in training its coaches? A systematic approach to coach development ensures consistent quality across all classes.
Curriculum Comprehensiveness
A strong Math Olympiad curriculum should include:
Coverage of major competitions. The centre should prepare students for the full range of competitions they might enter: SASMO, NMOS, SMOPS, RMO, APMOPS, SEAMO, SMKC, SMO, and AMC.
Regular updates. Competition formats and question styles change over time. The curriculum should be updated regularly to match current trends.
Structured progression. There should be clear pathways from beginner to advanced levels, allowing students to develop systematically.
Class Size and Personalised Attention
Learning mathematics well requires individual attention. Consider:
Student-to-teacher ratio. Smaller classes allow coaches to give more personalised feedback and address individual learning gaps.
Progress tracking. Does the centre monitor each student's development and adjust instruction accordingly?
Individualised support. Are there ways to help students who struggle or to challenge those advancing quickly?
Location and Convenience
Practical factors matter for long-term commitment:
Accessibility. Is the centre conveniently located for regular attendance? Consider travel time and transport options.
Schedule flexibility. Do class timings work with your family's schedule and your child's other commitments?
Online options. Does the centre offer online classes for added flexibility? This can be valuable for families with scheduling constraints or those living further away.
Questions to Ask When Evaluating a Centre
When visiting or enquiring about a Math Olympiad centre, come prepared with questions. The quality of answers will reveal much about the centre.
About Methodology
"What is your teaching approach or framework?"
"How do you develop problem-solving skills rather than just drilling?"
"How is your approach different from regular school tuition?"
"What specific strategies do you teach students?"
About Results
"What percentage of your students improve their school grades?"
"What is your medal rate in Math Olympiad competitions?"
"Which schools have your students been admitted to?"
"Can you share any testimonials or success stories?"
About Coaches
"What are the qualifications of your coaches?"
"Do your coaches have personal Math Olympiad competition experience?"
"How do you train and develop your coaching team?"
"Who will be teaching my child's class?"
About Curriculum
"Which competitions do you prepare students for?"
"How often is your curriculum updated?"
"What is the progression pathway from beginner to advanced levels?"
“How do you keep the curriculum relevant to current competition trends?”
Why Terry Chew Academy Stands Out
Many Math Olympiad centres operate in Singapore, but Terry Chew Academy has established itself as a leader. Here is why.
Verified Track Record
Terry Chew Academy's results are specific, measurable, and verifiable:
- 95% of students achieve a minimum 2-grade improvement (since 2014)
- 60% winning rate in Maths Olympiad competitions
- At least 60% of students win Gold or Silver medals in prestigious competitions
These are documented outcomes that parents can trust, not marketing fluff.
Founder Credentials
Mr Terry Chew B.Sc brings unique qualifications to lead a Math Olympiad training centre:
- First author in Singapore to publish a Maths Olympiad workbook series (2007)
- Creator of "Unleash the Maths Olympian in You!", the gold standard for Math Olympiad preparation across Southeast Asia
- Books used internationally in Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, Australia, China, Spain, and the USA
- Books translated into more than 3 languages
- Developer of the RA*CE Framework, refined over 12 years
Comprehensive Competition Coverage
TCA prepares students for all major local and international competitions:
- SMKC (Singapore Math Kangaroo Contest)
- SASMO (Singapore and Asian Schools Math Olympiad)
- SEAMO (Southeast Asian Mathematical Olympiad)
- NMOS (National Mathematical Olympiad of Singapore)
- RMO (Raffles Mathematical Olympiad)
- APMOPS (Asia Pacific Mathematical Olympiad for Primary Schools)
- SMOPS (Singapore Mathematical Olympiad for Primary Schools)
- SMO (Singapore Mathematical Olympiad)
- AMC8 & AMC10 (American Mathematics Competition)
TCA’s MO programmes build strong mathematical foundations and cultivate advanced problem-solving skills aligned with the key competencies assessed in GEP Mathematics, such as:
- logical reasoning
- pattern recognition
- number sense
- multi-step non-routine problem solving.
This equips students to approach the GEP screening with confidence.
Together with our DSA preparation support, TCA offers a comprehensive pathway for ambitious students striving for academic excellence.
Specialist Coaching Team
Every TCA coach is hand-picked by Mr Terry Chew and trained through an intensive Train-the-Trainer programme, ensuring they apply the RA*CE Framework consistently and effectively across all classes.
Coaches are specialists in mathematics with strong backgrounds in Olympiad competitions. They are selected not just for their academic credentials, but for their ability to build conceptual understanding and connect with students.
The team brings a combined wealth of teaching and competition experience, all united under the curriculum and methodology developed by Mr Terry Chew.
For more details on TCA's methodology and team, read our article on what makes Terry Chew Academy Singapore's leading Math Olympiad centre.
Online vs In-Person Math Olympiad Training
One key decision parents face is whether to choose in-person classes, online training, or both.
TCA's Online Maths Coaching Option
Terry Chew Academy offers a robust online learning option:
- LIVE video interaction with classes is conducted in real-time, not through pre-recorded videos. Students can ask questions and receive immediate feedback.
- Same curriculum and framework as in-person classes. Online students receive the same quality instruction using the RA*CE Framework.
- Wide availability for students from P1 to S4, covering the full range of primary and secondary levels.
When Online Training Works Well
Online Math Olympiad training can be highly effective for:
Self-motivated students who can focus during online sessions and engage actively with the material.
Families with scheduling constraints since online classes eliminate travel time and offer more flexibility.
Location constraints allow families far from quality centres to access top-tier instruction without lengthy commutes.
Supplementary learning where online sessions complement regular in-person classes, providing additional practice during holidays or exam periods.
Considerations for Younger Learners
Online learning presents some challenges for younger students:
- Younger children may find it harder to maintain focus without a teacher physically present
- Spontaneous classroom interaction may be reduced in online settings
- Reliable internet and appropriate devices are necessary
For foundational levels (K2 to early primary), in-person classes may offer advantages in engagement. However, older primary and secondary students often do well in properly designed online programmes.
Hybrid Approach
Many families find a hybrid approach works best:
- Regular in-person classes for core learning and social interaction
- Online supplements for revision, additional practice, or when travel is inconvenient
- Holiday bootcamps (in-person intensive) combined with regular online follow-up
This flexible approach lets families enjoy the benefits of both formats.
Assessing Fit for Your Child
Even the best Math Olympiad centre may not suit every child. Here is how to assess whether a centre fits.
Trial Classes
Most reputable centres offer trial classes. Use this opportunity to:
- Observe the teaching style. Does the coach explain concepts clearly? Is there genuine interaction?
- Watch class dynamics. How do students engage? Is the pace appropriate?
- Note your child's reaction. Did they enjoy the class? Were they interested and engaged?
After the trial, talk with your child about their experience. Their feedback matters.
Diagnostic Assessment
Quality centres assess your child's current level before recommending a programme. This ensures:
- Appropriate placement in a class matching their abilities
- Identified learning gaps so the centre knows where support is needed
- Realistic expectations with a clear understanding of the starting point and goals
Be cautious of centres that enrol students without any assessment. They may care more about filling seats than about appropriate placement.
Signs of a Good Fit
After starting at a centre, look for these positive indicators:
- Your child looks forward to classes and engages with homework
- You see progress in problem-solving ability and confidence within the first few months
- Your child can explain what they learned and the strategies they used
- Your child feels comfortable asking questions and seeking help
Warning Signs
Consider switching if you observe:
- Your child increasingly resists attending classes
- The programme causes stress rather than building confidence
- After several months, there is no visible improvement
- The centre provides poor communication about your child's progress
Making the Final Decision
With all the information gathered, how do you make the final choice?
Balance Quality with Practicality
The best centre in Singapore only helps if your child can attend consistently. Consider:
- Location. Is the travel time sustainable for weekly classes over months or years?
- Schedule. Do class times work without causing excessive stress to your family routine?
- Fees. Is the investment sustainable over the time needed to see results (typically at least 6 months)?
Sometimes, a convenient, affordable centre that you can actually commit to will yield better results than a distant centre that creates attendance problems.
Setting Realistic Expectations
Understand that improvement takes time:
- Grade improvements typically become visible within 6 months with consistent attendance and practice
- Competition success builds gradually as students gain experience and confidence
- Medals and awards are not guaranteed. Focus on skill development rather than just outcomes.
A good centre will be honest about realistic timelines rather than making extravagant promises.
Ready to Choose the Right Centre?
Selecting a Math Olympiad tuition centre is a significant decision that shapes your child's mathematical development. By evaluating methodology, track record, coach qualifications, curriculum, and fit, you can make an informed choice.
Summary of key evaluation criteria:
- Documented, research-backed teaching methodology
- Verifiable track record with specific statistics
- Qualified coaches with competition experience
- Comprehensive curriculum covering major competitions
- Appropriate class sizes and personalised attention
- Convenient location with flexible options including online
We invite you to visit Terry Chew Academy for an assessment to discover how our RA*CE Framework and specialist coaches can help your child reach their potential.
Contact Terry Chew Academy:
Location: 167A Thomson Rd, Goldhill Shopping Centre, Singapore 307619
Phone: 8809 5884
Email: hello@terrychew.com.sg
Website: terrychew.com.sg
For information on the best age to start and upcoming competition dates, see our guide on when to start Math Olympiad and the Singapore competition calendar.
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