AEP Centre @ NJC: AEP Programme for External Secondary Students
The Art Elective Programme (AEP) is a special Art programme established to provide artistically-inclined students with an in-depth study of art, starting from Secondary 1. It is a 4-year programme at the secondary level. It aims to develop students as practitioners, scholars, advocates and leaders in the arts.
National Junior College (NJC) was established as an AEP Centre to broaden student access to art talent development opportunities. As an AEP Centre, NJC offers centre-based AEP to students from non-AEP and non-EAP (Enhanced Art Programme) secondary schools only.
The curriculum immerses students in a variety of art forms, including drawing, painting, sculpture, digital media, and visual journaling, while also encouraging exploration through electives such as printmaking, ceramics, and animation. Lessons are enriched by milestone experiences like combined schools workshops, exhibitions, and opportunities to learn from professional artists and higher education partners.
Graduates of AEP@NJC are well-positioned for diverse future pathways. The programme equips students to pursue art at the post-secondary level, including GCE A-Level Art at junior colleges or art and design diplomas at local institutes such as LASALLE and NAFA. While G3 Higher Art can be used as a Humanities subject in junior college admissions, it does not confer additional bonus points, and progression to AEP at the JC level requires a separate selection process.
Entry into AEP@NJC is competitive and begins with a selection exercise at the start of Secondary 1. Applicants are assessed on their interest and potential in art, with no requirement for prior formal training-self-directed participation in primary art lessons or art-related CCAs is valued. Once enrolled, students must commit to a rigorous schedule: three hours of art lessons weekly, additional workshops, and active participation in collaborative projects, all held at NJC’s dedicated facilities. The programme is a significant four-year commitment, and students are encouraged to see it through to maximise its benefits.
If you have any queries on centre-based AEP, you can email the MOE Arts Education Branch at [email protected]