It is recognised by the Ministry of Education as a National Project of Excellence and a key development programme for talented young musicians.

Since 1 January 2016, the Singapore Symphony Orchestra (SSO) has assumed management and operational responsibility for the SNYO, taking over the reins from the Ministry of Education.

Members studying in mainstream secondary schools will have their participation in the SNYO recognised in lieu of a school-based Co-Curricular Activity (CCA).

[1] The SNYO aims to focus on developing the most talented classical musicians and building a vibrant music community for Singapore.

[citation needed] The SNYO was slated to give the Singapore live premiere of Disney Fantasia on 17 and 18 March 2020, but the concert was postponed to an unconfirmed date due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Brown, a choirmaster at St Andrew's Cathedral, organised an orchestra comprising children aged between 11 and 16 years old, with most of them playing the violin.

It sought to build the SYO into a national youth orchestra and recognised it officially as an extra-curricular activity for students who are members.