If you’ve included picking up a new skill in your New Year’s resolutions but don’t know where to start from, you reading the right article!
Be it learning a new language, trying out a new sport, or honing your baking skills to organise the occasional bake sale, there are so many places in Singapore that can offer you a chance to discover a new talent and explore your hobbies.
We have compiled the best schools across a variety of skills and budgets, so you’ll definitely find something that fits the bill in this list!
Language
1. The Singapore Association For The Deaf
Think you’ve learnt almost all the languages in the world? Here’s one that you may have missed out – sign language!
The Singapore Association For The Deaf conducts Singapore Sign Language classes, which is a native sign language recognised and accepted in Singapore. Picking up this language not only helps you to communicate and interact with the community, but also gives you a chance to understand these people who want their voice to be heard as well.
The SgSL course comprises of three levels, where you get to learn through classroom instruction and role-play, as well as storytelling and handouts.
Course price: Starts from SGD150 for 24 hours
Address: 227 Mountbatten Rd, Singapore 397998
More information: Website | Facebook
2. inlingua School of Languages
Established in 1972, inlingua is the go-to for many seeking to learn a new language. For starters, the school offers courses across a wide variety of languages, including English, Chinese, French, Korean, Spanish, Thai, German, Japanese, Italian, Malay, Indonesian, Vietnamese, and more!
Each class promises to be engaging with lots of role-plays and speaking practices, and chances are that you’ll be spending lots of time on campus to make full use of the roof garden and tennis court (open to all students!) as well.
Course price: Starts from SGD350 for 20 hours
Address: 51 Cuppage Rd, #10-12, Singapore 229469
More information: Website | Facebook
3. Elite Linguistic Network
Chinese is gaining popularity as a language, and for those of us who didn’t have a chance to pick it up in school or simply dozed off during Chinese lessons, fret not – you still get a chance to learn basic Chinese and even master it well enough to communicate with Chinese clients!
Elite Linguistic Network is a boutique provider of Chinese courses and has worked with many government agencies and companies to do translation work, so you know that they are the true specialists when it comes to this language.
You can either opt to start from scratch, or take a placement test so that they can suggest a course level that is suited to your current proficiency.
Course price: Available upon request
Address: 110 Middle Rd, #07-02B Chiat Hong Building, Singapore 188968
More information: Website | Facebook
4. French Toast Language Centre
French schools are not uncommon, but here’s what makes the MOE-registered school a hit among French learners: 100% native French teachers, small classes, and a fun curriculum that will make you fall in love with the language and culture!
The teachers make sure that the lessons are taught at a pace that is suited for everyone so that no one falls behind. At each level, you’ll get to learn the four aspects of the language (speaking, reading, writing & listening) and how to use the language in real-life situations.
Course price: Starts from SGD295 for 20 hours
Address: 220A Upper Thomson Rd 02-00, Singapore 574352
More information: Website | Facebook | Instagram
5. Sejong Korean Language School
The MOE-registered Korean Language Centre is well-known among those seeking to pick up Korean in Singapore for the challenging but absolutely fulfilling curriculum that really gets you immersed in learning the language.
The teachers reference local Singaporean examples and languages for easy and better understanding, and also speak excellent English, which is especially beneficial for beginners. If you like well-structured classes and are aiming to take the proficiency test (TOPIK), you should definitely consider starting your Korean language journey here.
Course price: Starts from SGD360 for 18 hours
Address: 227 Mountbatten Rd, Singapore 397998
More information: Website | Facebook | Instagram
6. Ganada Korean Language Centre
Opened by a former Public Middle School Teacher for Korean in Seoul, Ganada ensures that they provide authentic Korean classes at an affordable price for all students, with all teachers having gone through the teaching program for Korean Language Teachers conducted by Seoul National University.
Students who have taken classes here love the small class sizes, where the teachers can give more guidance and attention to each student as compared to other Korean schools. You’ll also love the interesting cultural titbits that the teachers often share about Korea!
Course price: Starts from SGD262 for 18 hours
Address: 420 North Bridge Road #02-20 North Bridge Centre, Singapore 188727
More information: Website | Facebook | Instagram
7. Ikoma Language School
Although Ikoma offers Japanese, English, and Chinese courses, it is most well-known for being one of the best Japanese classes in Singapore.
Its curriculum caters to learners of all levels, so you can start by learning your hiragana and katakana here, and then progressively prepare to take the Japanese Language Proficiency Test.
Replacement classes can also be requested for within the same week to classes on other days if you have a busy work schedule, so there’s really no excuse to put off learning Japanese this year.
Course price: Starts from SGD390 for 30 hours
Address: 350, #12-07 Orchard Rd, Shaw House, Singapore 238868
More information: Website | Facebook
8. Goethe-Institut
There’s no better place to pick up German than, well, Germany’s cultural institute in Singapore.
Whether you are looking to pick up conversational German or become fluent enough to work in Germany, Goethe-Institut has just the right course for you – online courses are even an option if you travel often for work!
Their curriculum is also super exciting: forget about boring textbooks; you’ll learn from music videos by top German musicians. There’s also a chance for you to meet the stars of Germany’s top soccer league, the Bundesliga, whenever they pay surprise visits to the institution.
Course price: Starts from SGD520 for 30 hours
Address: 136 Neil Rd, Singapore 088865
More information: Website | Facebook | Instagram
Performing arts
9. Singapore Dance Theatre
Before you dismiss the idea of adults learning ballet, hear us out: Singapore Dance Theatre’s Adult Dance Classes are designed for adults of all ages and abilities, meaning that even if you have absolutely no prior training, you can still pick up ballet fundamentals.
Although there’s no guarantee you’ll become a professional ballerina or ballerino after this course, it will definitely spark a love for dance that will stay with you – and it will be a very good workout, trust us!
Course price: SGD25 for a trial class, SGD170 for 8 classes, SGD320 for 16 classes
Address: 201 Victoria St, #07-02/03 Bugis +, Singapore 188067
More information: Website | Facebook | Instagram
10. Danz People
Have never danced a single day in your life but want to stretch your limits this year? Head to Danz People, one of the leading dance studios in Singapore that provides a range of dance-related activities, catering to both seasoned and novice dancers.
Instructors of Danz People range from street dancers to those trained in classical ballet and jazz, offering a wide variety of genres across different disciplines. However, you may want to know that the studio is most famous for their Hip Hop, Contemporary, and Jazz classes, so if that’s what you want to groove to, this is the school to sign up at.
Course price: Starts from SGD125 for 8 classes
Address: 6 Raffles Boulevard #02-15/17, Marina Square Shopping Mall, Singapore 039594
More information: Website | Facebook | Instagram
11. Recognize! Studios
Best known for being hip hop experts, the studio not only teaches dance techniques, but also gives you the opportunity to learn choreography to a new song at each class, so you can already show off your dance moves after just one class – sweet!
Course price: Starts from SGD205 for 8 classes
Address: Downtown Gallery, OUE Downtown 2, 6A Shenton Way #02-25, Singapore 068815
More information: Website | Facebook | Instagram
12. The Brass Barre
For a real challenge this year, we encourage you to try pole dancing. Although commonly misunderstood, this dance form has been slowly gaining approval and becoming more popular as people recognise that it is an intensive sport that trains strength and discipline while requiring a good sense of artistry.
The Brass Barre is Singapore’s leading pole dance studio that conducts pole dance, exotic & flexibility classes for all levels, from absolute Beginners to High Advanced. Even if you think you’re too stiff and not fit enough, that’s okay – the friendly instructors will teach you proper gripping techniques and guide you every step of the way!
Course price: Starts from SGD260 for 8 classes
Address: 277 Orchard Rd, [email protected], #02-24, Singapore 238858
More information: Website | Facebook | Instagram
13. Aureus Academy
Aureus Academy is a popular music school in Singapore with over 10,000 students enrolled across their multiple locations. They specialise in providing individually-tailored piano lessons, violin lessons, guitar lessons, and vocal lessons, so you can really learn at your own pace and get the attention you require.
You can also speak to the teachers about your purpose of picking up the instrument, be it just for fun or looking for exam certification – the teachers will adjust the lessons accordingly so that you fully enjoy the learning process!
Course price: Available upon request
Address: hereSee full list of locations
More information: Website | Facebook | Instagram
14. Lee Wei Song School of Music
This school probably needs no introduction – started by established producer brothers Lee Wei Song and Lee Si Song, this institution is a must-go for those who are looking to pick up the correct singing techniques and perhaps even land a professional career in the music industry!
Lee Wei Song School of Music houses a large team of resident and associate instructors, each experienced and trained in various music and vocal specialties. Whether you want to sing better than your friends at karaoke or learn how to write your own songs, there is really no lack of courses you can take here if you want to pick up a skill in this area.
Course price: Starts from SGD480 for 8 classes
Address: Pico Creative Centre, 20 Kallang Avenue, Lobby B, Level 2, Unit A, Singapore 339411 | 27 W Coast Hwy, #02-02, Singapore 117867
More information: Website | Facebook | Instagram
15. Replugged Music School
Established in 2002, Replugged Music is highly committed to the purpose of imparting musical knowledge. Their dedicated teachers are focused on the one task of teaching music, so you know that you’ll be able to master a musical instrument of your choice under the right guidance here.
You can choose from a variety of common instruments such as ukelele, guitar, piano, violin, and vocals. Music theory classes are also available if you want a good foundation in music to make your musical journey much easier for future instruments.
Course price: Starts from SGD299 for 12 classes
Address: 249B Victoria St, Bugis Village, Singapore 188034
More information: Website | Facebook | Instagram
Art and design
16. Classical Realism Singapore
The owner of Classical Realism Singapore, who doubles as the sole teacher of the studio, conducts her lessons based on the “atelier” method where students undergo a centralised curriculum at their own pace under her supervision.
In-depth instructions will be given to help you improve your skills and your ability while allowing you the chance to express your individual style and artistic vision.
You may choose from either drawing or painting classes – or even both!
Course price: Starts from SGD200 for 4 classes of 3 hours each
Address: 20 Dublin Rd, Second Floor, Singapore 239809
More information: Website | Facebook | Instagram
17. Drawing Right
This art school wants you to know that if you cannot draw at all, feel that you have no talent for drawing or doubt that you could ever learn, then Drawing Right is exactly for you.
Founded on the intriguing technique of drawing with the right side of your brain, their courses will take you from a stick-man-drawing amateur to a full-fledged portrait sketch artist.
Although not exactly one of the cheapest classes to take, all the materials used in the course are fully provided for, and you can be promised extremely mind-blowing results with a new skill that sticks for life.
Course price: Starts from SGD650 for 5 classes
Address: 244 Lor Chuan, Singapore 556745
More information: Website | Facebook
18. Goodman Arts Centre
Art classes here focus on the Southeast Asian heritage, so you’ll be taken on a hands-on journey through interesting art forms such as batik, an endangered but valuable Javanese art form that involves painting via a traditional waxing method.
Most classes encourage you to bring your children along so that even your little ones can pick up a new skill together with you, and the free-and-easy nature of classes here allows you to progress at your own pace and comfort.
Course price: Available upon request
Address: 90 Goodman Rd, Singapore 439053
More information: Website | Facebook | Instagram
19. My Art Space
Painting is often recognised as a versatile art form – you just need to know what are the right brushes and techniques to use in order to create your own masterpiece.
Set amidst various flora and fauna at prestige Istana Park, My Art Space offers a flexible learning environment where lessons focus on opening your eyes to the world of composition and distance on focal point with the help of professional artists. This is perfect if you are want to build a basic artistic foundation without the stress of professional art institutions.
Course price: Starts from SGD65 for 1 class
Address: Istana Park, 31 Orchard Road, S238888
More information: Website | Facebook | Instagram
Sport
20. Running Guild
Yes, that’s right – unlikely what is commonly thought, running is a sport that requires proper guidance so that you can run better and avoid injuries in the long run, pun unintended!
Known for organising ultra-marathons, Running Guild organises different courses such as group training sessions and one-on-one coaching, depending on whether you are looking to develop running as a lifetime hobby or training to run competitively in marathons.
Course price: Starts from SGD5
Address: 227 Mountbatten Rd, Singapore 397998
More information: Facebook
21. Solitude Of Strength
Looking to get stronger, but always thought that lifting a bar with huge weights above your head was impossible?
You can check out Solitude of Strength’s MaxLift classes. It does not matter if you have lifted before or not as the instructors at this functional gym will make sure you get professional guidance at every step so that you get the best results without the risk of injury.
Functional Olympic Weightlifting movements are the focus here and done at a high enough intensity level that you will still have that endorphin high after – who knows, you may even consider competitive weightlifting after you’ve mastered this skill here!
Course price: Starts from SGD215 for unlimited classes in 1 month
Address: 48 Woodleigh Park, Unit #6, The Arena, Singapore 357844
More information: Website | Facebook | Instagram
22. The Archery Academy
Founded in 2015 by former Singapore National Coach, Miss Choi Mi Jin, this school not only provides the best archery equipment to professional archers in Singapore, but also provide coaching services to anyone aged six and above.
Course price: Available upon request
Address: 100 Turf Club Road 01, 02V, Singapore 287992
More information: Website | Facebook | Instagram
23. Constant Wind Sea Sports and Sailing School
A water sport is one of the best ways to enjoy beautiful scenery while getting a good workout done, hence Constant Wind Seasports offer basic sailing courses conducted by instructors with relevant certifications and experience.
By the end of the course, they promise that you will be able to sail competently on your own, learn and apply useful rope and knot techniques, and most importantly, develop the confidence and control over the boat at sea.
Course price: Starts from SGD374 for 3 classes of 4 hours each
Address: 11 Changi Coast Walk, Singapore 499740
More information: Website | Facebook
24. Absolute Fencing
Absolute Fencing (ABF) was founded in 2006, and is led by top Singaporean fencers. They started with just four students but has now grown to over a hundred fencers across all age groups, thanks to their passionate belief that even ordinary people can become champions.
Many of their fencers have gone on to join the National Team and win medals, but even if you are just looking to try something fun in the new year, you’ll definitely benefit from learning a sport that imparts core values like discipline, respect, perseverance, and fortitude.
Course price: Starts from SGD150 for 4 classes
Address: 27 West Coast Highway, #02-03, Westway, W Coast Hwy, Singapore 117867
More information: Website | Facebook | Instagram
25. Singapore Swimming Academy
Learning to swim is a fun experience, but finding the right instructor can be a hassle. At Singapore Swimming Academy, they take the stress out of searching for the right instructors by matching you to a suitable coach or class based on your preferences, a task made easier by the fact that they have more than 300 affiliate swimming coaches that conduct classes in all public swimming pools in Singapore!
All instructors are certified by Sports Singapore, qualified to teach the SwimSafer programme, and also well-versed in First Aid, CPR and advanced lifesaving techniques, so you know that you will be in good hands for sure.
Course price: Starts from SGD200 for 10 classes
Address: See full list of swimming complexes here
More information: Website | Facebook | Instagram
26. Yoga Lab
Yoga can feel very intimidating, and it doesn’t help that there is a common misconception that yoga is only for the rich and fit people.
With that in mind, Yoga Lab was founded on the belief that yoga should be accessible to all, and they aspire to empower all students to challenge their limits in each of their classes.
Rather than squeeze as many students as possible into one class, they take care to ensure that each class is small enough so that every student gets the attention and space he or she needs, as well as making sure that instructions given are clear and easy to understand.
Course price: Starts from SGD30 for 1 class, SGD199 for 10 classes
Address: See full list of locations here
More information: Website | Facebook | Instagram
27. Uppercut
Boxing is not only a good form of exercise but a great way to pick up some self-defence moves, an essential skill that we tend to neglect.
Get familiar with basic stance, form, and punches, before going on to learn more advanced combos or techniques. The classes here are designed to teach real boxing movement and can be physically challenging, but they are guaranteed to give you a fulfilling workout.
Course price: Starts from SGD45 for 1 class, SGD185 for 5 classes
Address: Telok Ayer Street 155A/ 157A, Singapore 068612
More information: Website | Facebook | Instagram
Baking & cooking
28. ABC Cooking Studio
The Japanese cooking studio is one of the country’s top culinary schools – in fact, its opening in Singapore was met with much fanfare and overwhelming enthusiasm!
With three outlets in Singapore, the classes at ABC teach you to master the art of Japanese cuisine, from takoyaki to tempura to tonkatsu. It also offers international cuisine like Korean, Indian and Italian if you want to try your hand at new cuisine.
Course price: Starts from SGD481.50 for 6 classes
Address: 391A Orchard Rd, #03-12, Singapore 238873
More information: Website | Facebook | Instagram
29. Little Green Kitchen
If you want to pick up some culinary skills but prefer to stick to just vegetarian dishes, or are looking for ways to make your usual vegetarian dishes more interesting, sign up for a class at Little Green Kitchen!
Set up by former lawyer Shalu Asnani, Little Green Kitchen is a cooking studio and food consultancy that aims to dispels myths of vegetarian food being boring with its range of classes including healthy desserts, (yummy) gluten-free cooking, and classic Thai favourites.
Course price: SGD85 per class
Address: 1 Hacienda Grove, Upper East Coast Road
More information: Website | Facebook | Instagram
30. Palate Sensations Cooking School
Dreaming of becoming the next MasterChef? It’s not such a far-fetched dream if you book classes at Palate Sensations, one of the most established cooking schools in Singapore with over a decade of experience.
Their 2,000sqft open kitchen can fit up to 40 participants in one session, and offers classes proficient in regional cuisine – think Korean, Chinese, Indonesian, Thai, and even Vietnamese cuisine!
Course price: Starts from SGD148 for 1 class
Address: Chromos #01-03, 10 Biopolis Road, Singapore 138670
More information: Website | Facebook | Instagram
31. Brettschneider’s Baking & Cooking School
Founded by award-winning baker and pâtissier Dean Brettschneider, the school offers courses such as basic bread baking and pastry making to both amateur and professional cooks alike, so you can look forward to making your own fresh pastries in no time.
Course price: Starts from SGD180 for 1 class
Address: 1 Greendale Ave, Singapore 289495
More information: Website | Facebook | Instagram
32. Chantilly Culinary Studio
Chantilly Culinary Studio wants to help you hone your skills in baking and decorating cakes, pastries, and bread.
The best part? You can even bring your kids along for Parent and Child Baking Workshops, where they’ll be taught the basics of baking from scratch and using child-friendly kitchen equipment.
All ingredients used in Chantilly Culinary Studio’s classes are halal, so no need to worry about that either!
Course price: Starts from SGD320 for 2 classes
Address: 21 Simon Road, Singapore 545907
More information: Website | Facebook | Instagram
33. Bake King
Bake King not only supplies baking ingredients in Singapore, but also offers 2-hour baking classes that teach you how to make delicious pastries like Rose Lychee Cake, Chicken Curry Puffs, and even Vegan Brownies with Homemade Almond Milk.
Course price: Starts from SGD38 per class
Address: Blk 10 Haig Rd #01-363/365, Singapore 430010
More information: Website | Facebook
34. Hungry Mummies
Operating from a home kitchen, Hungry Mummies will teach you how to cook Asian delicacies in a small class size so that you get close supervision and get any doubts clarified throughout the entire cooking process.
If you would like to focus on local dishes that you can easily cook up at home, check out their Singapore home-cooking series where you can choose to learn how to cook noodles, curry, and seafood dishes!
Course price: Starts from SGD100 for 1 class
Address: 58 Telok Blangah Heights, Singapore 100058
More information: Website | Facebook | Instagram