Tao Nan School (道南学校) is not just a name—it’s a legacy. Founded in 1906, it remains one of the top choices among East-side parents for its rich heritage, academic rigor, and bilingual focus.
But how do you actually get your child into Tao Nan? Whether you’re eyeing Phase 2B or 2C, planning early is key. Here’s everything you need to know—with real tips, property picks, and inside advice.
📊 Before You Start: Know Your Odds – A Look at the Past 3 Years
Getting into Tao Nan isn’t just about effort—it’s also about understanding the numbers. Here’s a snapshot of the actual demand and success rates from 2022 to 2024:
| Year | Phase | Vacancy | Applicants | Success Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 2B | 23 | 61 | 37.7% |
| 2022 | 2C | 47 | 99 | 47.5% |
| 2023 | 2B | 20 | 68 | 29.4% |
| 2023 | 2C | 41 | 95 | 43.2% |
| 2024 | 2B | 31 | 62 | 50.0% |
| 2024 | 2C | 66 | 86 | 76.7% |
📌 Phase 2B is clearly more competitive than 2C, with success rates dipping as low as 29%. In contrast, 2024 saw a Phase 2C boom, likely due to increased vacancies.
This is why it’s critical to understand all your options: whether that means getting involved with SHHK, being a grassroots leader, or relocating into the 1KM radius for Phase 2C.
🔍 Phase 2B: The SHHK or Grassroots Route – For the Proactive and Prepared
✅ What is Phase 2B?
Phase 2B gives priority to:
- Members endorsed by affiliated organizations (like SHHK)
- Active community leaders
- Note: Tao Nan does not accept parent volunteers under Phase 2B.
🧭 Option 1: SHHK Membership Route
- Become an SHHK Member
Join SHHK here
Membership isn’t just a checkbox—it’s a commitment. Expect to attend events, help out at school fairs, or assist with logistics at community events. - Maintain Membership for the Required Duration
- For kids born before 2021: 2 years by June 30
- For kids born 2021 or later: 1 year and 9 months
- Clock 80 Volunteering Hours
Volunteering could include:- Event coordination
- Logistics for community events
- Cultural programme support
- Get Recommended by SHHK
Apply for a recommendation around mid-April of the registration year. Didn’t receive a notification? Email: admin@shhk.com.sg
💡 Option 2: Serve as an Active Community Leader
If SHHK isn’t the right fit, there’s another path—becoming an active community leader in a grassroots organization (e.g., your local RC, CCC, or CC).
Here’s what it involves:
- Serve for at least 3 consecutive years before registration year.
- Active participation is required (not just nominal membership).
- Must receive a recommendation letter signed by your MP by June 30 of the registration year.
🗣️ This route is rewarding but requires a longer commitment, and your contributions must be meaningful and consistent.
💬 Real Parent Experience
“We joined SHHK when my daughter was just 3. Every hour spent volunteering was worth it. It wasn’t just about the school—it was about being part of something bigger.”
— Rachel, mother of a Tao Nan P2 student
🏡 Phase 2C: Play the Property Game — 1KM Rule
If you’re not going the SHHK route, Phase 2C is based on proximity. Living within 1km gives you the highest chance.
🏘️ Condos Within 1KM of Tao Nan School
| Condo Name | Year Built | Tenure | Units | Estimated PSF Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vanilla | 2021 | Freehold | 60 | Data not available |
| Marine Blue | 2016 | Freehold | 124 | S$1,193 – S$2,598 |
| Seventy Saint Patrick’s | 2016 | Freehold | 186 | S$2,288 – S$2,484 |
| The Seawind | 2015 | Freehold | 222 | S$1,195 – S$2,240 |
| Coralis | 2013 | Freehold | 127 | S$2,101 – S$2,255 |
| St Patrick’s Residences | 2013 | Freehold | 102 | S$1,281 – S$2,160 |
| The Sound | 2013 | Freehold | 104 | S$1,959 – S$2,096 |
| Parc Seabreeze | 2012 | Freehold | 94 | S$2,071 – S$2,400 |
| Grand Duchess at St Patrick’s | 2010 | Freehold | 121 | S$2,025 – S$2,214 |
| Tierra Vue | 2009 | Freehold | 129 | S$1,770 – S$2,200 |
| Cote D’Azur | 2004 | 99-year Leasehold | 612 | S$1,674 – S$2,066 |
| Ocean Park | 1994 | Freehold | 298 | S$1,717 – S$1,967 |
Note: PSF prices are based on recent transactions and listings as of 2025. Prices may vary depending on unit size, floor level, and other factors.
🗺️ Check the 1km radius via MOE’s School Distance Tool
🧠 Pro Tip: Think Long-Term
“We bought a unit in Seventy St Patrick’s not just for P1, but for the next decade. Tao Nan, CHIJ Katong, and Victoria School are all within reach—it’s a strong education cluster.”
— Derek, father of 2 Tao Nan grads
🗓️ Timeline at a Glance
| Month | Action |
|---|---|
| By Sept (2–3 years prior) | Join SHHK or begin grassroots service |
| Mid-April (registration year) | Apply for SHHK recommendation |
| By June 30 (registration year) | Complete volunteering or get MP endorsement |
| July 2 | P1 Registration opens via MOE |
✨ Final Thoughts
Tao Nan is more than a school—it’s a community. Whether you’re diving into SHHK volunteering or investing in the right postcode, success lies in early, informed planning.
📌 Want to compare resale prices for the condos above? Or need help drafting your SHHK volunteering schedule? I can help—drop your questions below or send me a message!