It is necessary to have the Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE) as an indicator of how much a 12-year-old has learnt through his years of schooling.

One may argue that the PSLE is narrow in scope and does not assess other areas pupils may excel in.

However, it is impossible for such an assessment to cover all areas. Therefore, the PSLE is already fair in that pupils sit the same papers in the four core subjects.

By streaming pupils into the various educational institutions via their T-scores, it ensures the learning needs of pupils are met.

For example, some pupils may require a more intellectually stimulating environment while others may require a less competitive environment to unleash their potential.

Secondary school is a time to learn new skills and subjects, and forge new friendships, among other experiences. I believe that all schools share the same objective of providing an all-round education.

One may argue that some schools provide more opportunities than others. In the end, however, an excellent education is not about the name of the school, but about how an individual is willing to capitalise on every opportunity, set new goals and strive to be better.

Some may say that certain schools have a history of negative peer influence. However, it is up to the individual to decide on whether to be influenced by such forces.

The PSLE does not define one's future success, but ensures that the learning needs of pupils are met.

Faith Angeline Yeh, 15, Secondary 3 student