I was surprised to read Mrs Tara Dhar Hasnain's letter (Set aside spaces in 'elite' schools for kids from lower-income homes; April 27).

While it may seem that students in elite schools are from middle-class or affluent families, this is not true.

In fact, students from lower-income families can enrol in such schools, based on their academic performance or via the Direct School Admission scheme.

At schools like Hwa Chong Institution, students can also live in a boarding home for a term or two with students from other schools.

This enables students to mingle with others, including those from lower-income homes.

Nonetheless, the idea of setting aside spaces for children from low-income families is a good idea, as it provides more opportunities for students to mingle with those from different financial backgrounds.

David Lim, 15

Secondary 3 student