Are you a parent in Singapore looking to enroll your child in preschool or kindergarten? Or are you simply interested in understanding the education landscape in Singapore? Either way, understanding the costs associated with preschool and kindergarten education is an important factor to consider. In this article, we will explore the costs of preschool and kindergarten education in Singapore, as well as the financial assistance and subsidies available to families who need them.
Before we dive into the costs, it is important to understand the education landscape in Singapore. Preschool and kindergarten education is not compulsory in Singapore, but it is highly encouraged. The Singapore government has invested heavily in early childhood education, recognizing the importance of early childhood development in a child’s overall development. As a result, there are a wide variety of preschool and kindergarten options available to families in Singapore, ranging from government-run MOE kindergartens to private preschools and kindergartens.
Understanding the Education Landscape
If you are a parent in Singapore, you may be wondering about the different options available for your child’s early education. Singapore has a well-established system of preschools and kindergartens, both of which are designed to provide young children with a solid foundation for their future academic and personal development. In this section, we will explore the education landscape in Singapore and help you understand the different types of institutions available to you and your child.
Preschools vs Kindergartens
Before we dive into the different types of institutions, it’s important to understand the difference between preschools and kindergartens. Preschools in Singapore are designed for children aged 18 months to 6 years old. They focus on play-based learning and aim to develop a child’s social, emotional, and cognitive skills. Kindergartens, on the other hand, are designed for children aged 3 to 6 years old. They are more structured and focus on preparing children for primary school.
Government and Private Institutions
In Singapore, there are two types of kindergartens: government-operated and private/international. Government-operated kindergartens are run by the Ministry of Education (MOE) and are subsidized by the government. Private and international kindergartens are run by private organizations and are not subsidized by the government.
Preschools in Singapore can be either government or private. Government preschools are run by the Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA) and are subsidized by the government. Private preschools are run by private organizations and are not subsidized by the government.
Anchor Operators and Their Role
Anchor operators are large private organizations that partner with the government to provide high-quality and affordable preschool education. They are appointed by the government and are responsible for setting up and operating preschools in designated areas. Anchor operators must adhere to strict guidelines set by the government to ensure that they provide quality education to children.
In conclusion, understanding the education landscape in Singapore is crucial for parents who want to make informed decisions about their child’s early education. By understanding the different types of institutions available, you can choose the one that best suits your child’s needs and your budget.
Cost Breakdown
If you’re a parent in Singapore, you’re probably familiar with the high cost of preschool and kindergarten education. However, with a little bit of research and planning, it’s possible to make it work for your family. In this section, we’ll break down the costs associated with preschool and kindergarten education in Singapore.
Tuition Fees
Tuition fees are the primary cost associated with preschool and kindergarten education in Singapore. On average, you can expect to pay between S$14 to S$36 per day, depending on the school you choose. Preschools are categorised into pre-nursery (playgroup) which caters for children aged 18 months to 2 years, and nursery and kindergarten, which cater for ages 3 to 6.
Additional Costs
In addition to tuition fees, there are several other costs associated with preschool and kindergarten education in Singapore. Here are some of the most common:
- Uniforms: Most preschools and kindergartens require children to wear uniforms. The cost of uniforms varies depending on the school, but you can expect to pay around S$20 to S$50 per set.
- School Books: School books are another expense that you will need to factor into your budget. The cost of school books varies depending on the school and the level of education, but you can expect to pay around S$50 to S$100 per year.
- Miscellaneous Costs: There are also various miscellaneous costs that you may need to pay for, such as field trips, excursions, and other activities. These costs can vary widely depending on the school and the activities involved.
- Annual Photoshoot: Many preschools and kindergartens offer an annual photoshoot for their students. The cost of the photoshoot can vary depending on the school, but you can expect to pay around S$20 to S$50.
- Daily Bus Transport: If you require daily bus transport for your child, you will need to factor this into your budget. The cost of daily bus transport varies depending on the school and the location, but you can expect to pay around S$100 to S$200 per month.
Subsidies
Fortunately, the Singapore government offers several subsidies to help offset the cost of preschool and kindergarten education. Here are some of the most common subsidies:
- Kindergarten Fee Assistance Scheme (KiFAS): This scheme provides financial assistance to families with children enrolled in kindergarten. Eligible families can receive up to S$170 per month in subsidies.
- Basic Subsidy: All Singaporean children enrolled in preschool are eligible for a basic subsidy. The amount of the subsidy varies depending on the type of preschool and the level of education.
- Additional Subsidy: Families with lower household incomes may be eligible for an additional subsidy. The amount of the subsidy varies depending on the family’s income level.
By understanding the costs associated with preschool and kindergarten education in Singapore, you can make an informed decision about which school is right for your child. With the help of subsidies and careful planning, you can provide your child with a high-quality education without breaking the bank.
Financial Assistance and Subsidies
If you are worried about the cost of sending your child to preschool or kindergarten in Singapore, you may be eligible for financial assistance and subsidies. Here are some of the options available to you:
Basic and Additional Subsidies
The Singapore government offers Basic and Additional Subsidies to help with the cost of childcare and preschool. The Basic Subsidy is available to all Singaporean children enrolled in licensed childcare centres and kindergartens, while the Additional Subsidy is available to children from low-income families. The amount of subsidy you receive will depend on your gross monthly household income and the type of childcare or preschool programme your child is enrolled in.
For example, if you are a working mother with a gross monthly household income of less than $7,500, you may be eligible for a Basic Subsidy of up to $600 per month for full-day infant care, and up to $300 per month for full-day childcare. Non-working mothers can also receive a Basic Subsidy, but the amount is lower.
Kindergarten Fee Assistance Scheme (KIFAS)
The Kindergarten Fee Assistance Scheme (KIFAS) is designed to help low-income families with the cost of kindergarten education. The scheme provides subsidies for kindergarten programmes to ensure that it remains affordable and accessible for Singaporean children from low and middle-income families.
The subsidies range between $17 to $161 per month, depending on your gross monthly household income and the type of kindergarten programme your child is enrolled in. To be eligible for KIFAS, your child must be a Singapore citizen enrolled in a KIFAS-supported kindergarten programme.
In addition to the Basic and Additional Subsidies and KIFAS, you may also be eligible for an Annual Grant to help with the cost of school fees. The grant is available to all Singaporean children enrolled in a preschool or kindergarten programme and is automatically disbursed to your child’s school or kindergarten.
Choosing the Right Institution
Congratulations on taking the first step in your child’s educational journey! Choosing the right preschool or kindergarten in Singapore can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. With careful consideration and research, you can find the perfect institution that meets your child’s needs and your budget.
Factors to Consider
When choosing a preschool or kindergarten, there are several factors to consider. First and foremost, consider the location. You want an institution that is easily accessible from your home or workplace. This will save you time and make drop-offs and pick-ups more convenient.
Next, consider the quality of the institution. Look for institutions that have a good reputation and a track record of providing quality education. Check if the institution is registered with the Ministry of Education (MOE) and if it has been awarded any accreditations or certifications.
Another important factor is the teacher-child ratio. A lower ratio means that your child will receive more individual attention and care. A ratio of 1:10 is ideal for preschools, while a ratio of 1:15 is acceptable for kindergartens.
The curriculum is also an important consideration. Look for institutions that have a well-rounded curriculum that includes reading, writing, math, and social skills. Check if the curriculum is based on a recognised framework, such as the MOE Kindergarten Curriculum Framework or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme.
Finally, consider the environment. Look for institutions that provide a safe, clean, and stimulating environment for your child to learn and grow.
Comparing Options
Once you have identified a few institutions that meet your criteria, it’s time to compare your options. Make a list of the pros and cons of each institution and compare their fees, location, quality, teacher-child ratio, curriculum, and environment.
Consider visiting each institution and speaking to the teachers and staff. This will give you a better idea of the institution’s culture, values, and approach to education. You can also ask for references from other parents who have enrolled their children in the institution.
Remember, choosing the right preschool or kindergarten is an important decision that will impact your child’s lifelong learning journey. Take your time, do your research, and choose an institution that meets your child’s needs and your budget.
Additional Resources for Parents
As a parent, you want to give your child the best possible start in life. However, the costs of preschool and kindergarten can be daunting. Fortunately, there are resources available to help you manage your budget and make the most of your money.
Budgeting Tips
When it comes to budgeting for preschool and kindergarten, it’s important to plan ahead. Start by looking at your income and expenses, and determine how much you can afford to spend on your child’s education. Consider using a budgeting app or spreadsheet to help you keep track of your spending.
Another way to save money is to take advantage of credit card rewards and cashback deals. Many credit cards offer cashback or rewards points on purchases, which can add up quickly over time. Just be sure to pay off your balance in full each month to avoid interest charges.
Understanding Subsidies and Grants
There are also government subsidies and grants available to help offset the cost of preschool and kindergarten. For example, Anchor Operators like PCF Sparkletots Preschool, My First Skool, My World Preschool, Skool4Kidz, and E-Bridge Pre-School receive subsidies from the government to keep the fees affordable. MOE Kindergartens also offer subsidies for eligible families.
In addition, there are grants available for low-income families and families with children with special needs. The Ministry of Social and Family Development offers the KidSTART programme for children from low-income and vulnerable families. The Early Childhood Development Agency also offers the Development Support Programme for children with mild to moderate developmental needs.
By taking advantage of these resources and planning ahead, you can make preschool and kindergarten more affordable for your family.
Impact on Child Development
As a parent, you want to ensure your child has the best possible start in life. One way to do this is by enrolling them in a quality preschool or kindergarten programme. Quality education in the early years can have a significant impact on your child’s development, both academically and socially.
Educational Quality and Child Outcomes
Research has shown that children who attend quality early childhood education programmes are more likely to achieve better academic outcomes later in life. This is because quality education programmes provide a strong foundation in literacy, numeracy and social skills. Children who attend these programmes are more likely to be confident, curious and engaged learners.
Furthermore, quality early childhood education programmes can have a positive impact on brain development. This is because the early years are a critical period for brain development. During this time, the brain is highly sensitive to environmental influences, including nutrition, stimulation and stress. Quality education programmes can provide the right kind of stimulation to help support healthy brain development.
However, quality education can come at a cost. The cost of early childhood education in Singapore can be a barrier for some families, particularly those on lower incomes. The government has recognised this and has taken steps to make preschool education more accessible and affordable for families. For example, lower-income families pay $3 per month for full-day childcare and $1 per month for half-day kindergarten at Anchor Operator preschools [1].
In conclusion, quality early childhood education programmes can have a significant impact on your child’s development. However, the cost of these programmes can be a barrier for some families. It is important to consider the benefits of quality education and weigh these against the costs when making decisions about your child’s education.
[1] Source: PDF Annex A: Recap of Key Moves to Transform the Early Childhood Sector …
Popular Preschool Centres in Singapore
If you’re looking for a preschool in Singapore, you’re in luck! There are plenty of options available to you. Here are some of the most popular preschool centres in Singapore.
Noteworthy Mentions
PCF Sparkletots
PCF Sparkletots is one of the largest preschool operators in Singapore. They have over 360 centres across the island, so you’re sure to find one near you. PCF Sparkletots offers a range of programmes for children aged 2 months to 6 years, including infant care, playgroup, nursery, and kindergarten. They also offer before and after-school care for primary school students.
My First Skool
My First Skool is another popular preschool operator in Singapore. They have over 120 centres across the island, and they offer a range of programmes for children aged 2 months to 6 years, including infant care, playgroup, nursery, and kindergarten. My First Skool also offers before and after-school care for primary school students.
Cherie Hearts
Cherie Hearts is a well-known preschool brand in Singapore. They have over 25 centres across the island, and they offer a range of programmes for children aged 2 months to 6 years, including infant care, playgroup, nursery, and kindergarten. Cherie Hearts also offers before and after-school care for primary school students.
MindChamps
MindChamps is a premium preschool brand in Singapore. They have over 40 centres across the island, and they offer a range of programmes for children aged 18 months to 6 years, including playgroup, nursery, and kindergarten. MindChamps also offers enrichment programmes for children up to 12 years old.
Learning Vision
Learning Vision is a well-established preschool brand in Singapore. They have over 20 centres across the island, and they offer a range of programmes for children aged 2 months to 6 years, including infant care, playgroup, nursery, and kindergarten. Learning Vision also offers before and after-school care for primary school students.
Kinderland
Kinderland is a popular preschool brand in Singapore. They have over 20 centres across the island, and they offer a range of programmes for children aged 2 months to 6 years, including infant care, playgroup, nursery, and kindergarten. Kinderland also offers before and after-school care for primary school students.
Brighton Montessori
Brighton Montessori is a well-known Montessori preschool brand in Singapore. They have over 10 centres across the island, and they offer a range of programmes for children aged 18 months to 6 years, including playgroup, nursery, and kindergarten.
Greentree Montessori
Greentree Montessori is another popular Montessori preschool brand in Singapore. They have over 10 centres across the island, and they offer a range of programmes for children aged 18 months to 6 years, including playgroup, nursery, and kindergarten.
E-Bridge Pre-School
E-Bridge Pre-School is a popular bilingual preschool in Singapore. They have over 10 centres across the island, and they offer a range of programmes for children aged 2 months to 6 years, including infant care, playgroup, nursery, and kindergarten.
Superland
Superland is a popular preschool brand in Singapore. They have over 10 centres across the island, and they offer a range of programmes for children aged 2 months to 6 years, including infant care, playgroup, nursery, and kindergarten.
Skoolpedia
Skoolpedia is a well-known preschool brand in Singapore. They have over 5 centres across the island, and they offer a range of programmes for children aged 2 months to 6 years, including infant care, playgroup, nursery, and kindergarten.
These are just a few of the popular preschool centres in Singapore. With so many options available, you’re sure to find a preschool that suits your child’s needs and your budget.
Navigating the Application Process
If you are considering enrolling your child in a preschool or kindergarten in Singapore, you may be wondering about the application process. Here are some steps to help guide you through the process.
Enrolment Steps
- Research: Start by researching different preschools and kindergartens in Singapore. You can find information about the different schools on the Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA) website. Look for schools that fit your budget, location, and educational philosophy.
- Visit the School: Once you have identified some potential schools, schedule a visit. This will give you a chance to meet the staff, see the facilities, and ask questions.
- Submit an Application: After you have visited the school and decided that it is a good fit for your child, you will need to submit an application. You can usually find the application form on the school’s website or request it from the school directly.
- Wait for a Response: After you have submitted your application, you will need to wait for a response from the school. This can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the school’s admission process.
- Acceptance: If your child is accepted into the school, you will need to complete the registration process and pay any required fees.
Documentation and Eligibility
To apply for a preschool or kindergarten in Singapore, you will need to provide certain documentation and meet certain eligibility requirements. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Eligibility: To be eligible for a MOE Kindergarten, your child must be a Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident and be born between 2 January 2017 and 1 January 2018.
- Documentation: You will need to provide your child’s birth certificate and any other relevant documents, such as proof of citizenship or residency.
- Fees: MOE Kindergartens are affordable and offer a range of financial assistance schemes to help families with different needs. You can find out more about MOE Kindergarten fees and financial assistance on the MOE website.
- Anchor Operator Scheme: Some preschools and kindergartens in Singapore participate in the Anchor Operator Scheme, which provides subsidies to help keep fees affordable for families. You can find out more about the Anchor Operator Scheme on the Education website.
Overall, the application process for preschools and kindergartens in Singapore can be straightforward. By doing your research, visiting the schools, and preparing the necessary documentation, you can help ensure a smooth application process for your child.
Extracurricular Activities and Their Costs
When it comes to preschool and kindergarten, extracurricular activities are an essential part of your child’s education. They help to develop your child’s social skills, creativity, and physical abilities. However, these activities can come at an additional cost, so it’s important to consider them when budgeting for your child’s education.
Field Trips and Special Events
Field trips and special events are a great way for your child to learn about the world around them. These activities can include visits to museums, zoos, and other cultural institutions. They can also include special events such as holiday celebrations, performances or concerts.
The cost of these activities can vary depending on the destination and the type of event. For example, a visit to a museum may cost around $10 per child, while a trip to the zoo may cost around $20 per child. Special events such as performances or concerts may cost more, with tickets ranging from $30 to $50 per child.
It’s important to note that some preschools and kindergartens may include the cost of field trips and special events in their tuition fees. However, it’s always best to check with your child’s school to confirm whether these costs are included or if they are an additional expense.
To ensure that your child can participate in these activities, it’s recommended that you budget for them in advance. You can also speak with your child’s school to find out if they offer any discounts or payment plans to help make these activities more affordable.
Overall, extracurricular activities are a valuable part of your child’s education. While they do come at an additional cost, they provide your child with opportunities to learn, grow, and have fun. By budgeting for these activities in advance, you can ensure that your child can participate in them without any financial stress.
Parental Involvement and Support
As a parent, getting involved in your child’s education is crucial in their learning journey. Preschools and kindergartens in Singapore encourage parental involvement in various ways.
Community and Networking
One way parents can get involved is through community and networking. Many preschools and kindergartens in Singapore organize events and activities to foster a sense of community among parents, teachers, and students. These events provide an opportunity for parents to meet other parents, exchange ideas and experiences, and build relationships with teachers.
You can also join parent support groups or associations that are organized by the preschool or kindergarten. These groups provide a platform for parents to share their concerns, ask questions, and get advice from other parents and teachers.
Furthermore, some preschools and kindergartens in Singapore offer parent-teacher conferences, which are scheduled meetings between parents and teachers to discuss the child’s progress, strengths, and areas for improvement. These conferences provide a great opportunity for parents to understand their child’s learning journey better and get feedback from teachers.
In conclusion, parental involvement and support are essential in a child’s learning journey. By getting involved in your child’s education, you can help them succeed in school and in life.
Maximising Rewards and Savings
Credit Card Benefits and Savings Plans
When it comes to paying for your child’s preschool or kindergarten, there are various ways to maximise rewards and savings. One way is to use a credit card that offers cashback or rewards points for spending on education-related expenses. Some credit cards even offer higher cashback rates or rewards points for spending on preschool or kindergarten fees.
For example, the Citi Cash Back+ Mastercard offers up to 1.6% cashback on all spend, including preschool and kindergarten fees. The HSBC Revolution Credit Card offers 5x rewards points on online, local dining, and entertainment transactions, which can be used to offset preschool or kindergarten fees.
Another way to save on preschool or kindergarten fees is to sign up for savings plans offered by some preschool operators. For example, My First Skool offers a savings plan where parents can save up to 25% on their child’s fees by making regular deposits into a dedicated savings account. This can help to ease the financial burden of paying for preschool or kindergarten fees.
In addition to credit card benefits and savings plans, it’s important to create a budget and stick to it when it comes to paying for your child’s preschool or kindergarten. This can help you to avoid overspending and ensure that you have enough money to cover other essential expenses. You can use tools like spreadsheets or budgeting apps to help you keep track of your expenses and stay on top of your finances.
Overall, maximising rewards and savings can help to make preschool and kindergarten fees more manageable and affordable. By using credit card benefits, savings plans, and creating a budget, you can ensure that you are able to provide your child with a quality education without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the typical fees for top-tier preschools in Singapore?
Top-tier preschools in Singapore usually charge between $1,500 to $2,500 per month. These fees can vary depending on the location, facilities, and curriculum offered by the preschool. Some of the top-tier preschools in Singapore include EtonHouse, Chiltern House, and Odyssey The Global Preschool.
How do Sparkletots’ kindergarten costs compare with other early education options?
Sparkletots is a popular early education option in Singapore, and their kindergarten fees are generally lower than other private preschools. The monthly fee for Sparkletots’ kindergarten program is around $700 for Singapore citizens and $1,300 for non-citizens. However, it’s important to note that Sparkletots is a government-subsidized preschool, which means that their fees are lower than other private preschools.
At what age can little ones start Nursery 1 in our sunny Singapore?
In Singapore, children can start Nursery 1 when they turn three years old. Nursery 1 is the first level of preschool education, and it focuses on developing social skills, language, and communication skills in young children. Children can then progress to Nursery 2, followed by Kindergarten 1 and Kindergarten 2.
What distinguishes preschool from kindergarten in our vibrant city?
Preschool and kindergarten are both early education options in Singapore, but they have different focuses. Preschool is for children aged three to four years old and focuses on developing social skills, language, and communication skills. Kindergarten is for children aged five to six years old and focuses on preparing children for primary school by developing their academic skills.
What’s the average percentage of kiddos experiencing preschool fun in Singapore?
According to the Ministry of Education, over 90% of children in Singapore attend preschool before starting primary school. Preschool education is highly encouraged in Singapore, as it is seen as an important foundation for a child’s future academic and social success.
How much should we budget for a delightful preschool journey?
The cost of preschool education in Singapore can vary widely, depending on the type of preschool and the location. On average, parents can expect to spend between $500 to $2,500 per month on preschool fees. It’s important to research different preschool options and their fees to find a program that fits your budget and your child’s needs.
