When selecting a preschool, how do parents determine the “right” childcare centre?
While each family may make different decisions when selecting a preschool, one of the primary factors parents consider is whether it has a SPARK-certification. This endorsement is synonymous with quality standards and distinguishes various childcare centres in Singapore.
Introduced by the Ministry of Education (MOE) in 2010, SPARK is a quality assurance framework to enhance local preschools’ standards. It provides recognition and support for preschool leaders in their efforts to improve teaching and learning, as well as administration and management processes, to enhance the holistic development and well-being of young children.
You may have noticed ‘SPARK-certified preschool’ banners at some kindergartens and childcare centres in Singapore, including from some of My First Skool’s branches.
To obtain SPARK certification, preschools voluntarily undergo a comprehensive assessment to evaluate various parameters, including:
The first tier is a mandatory regulatory effort to ensure that the centre has adopted a minimum standard of operation (SOP) as outlined by the Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA).
From the second tier onwards, the process is completed voluntarily. At this stage, the preschool team is required to conduct annual self-assessments after registration is completed and accepted.
In the third tier, the preschool’s self-evaluations are validated and assessed by an external assessor.
Reviewed across various criteria, the results are shared with the school. Only those centres that meet the required quality standards are awarded the ‘SPARK-certified’ accreditation as a testament to the excellence they uphold.
100% of My First Skool’s eligible centres are SPARK certified, an assurance of quality by ECDA.
What distinguishes a SPARK-certified childcare in Singapore from one that has received the SPARK Certification (Commendation)?
Preschools undergo the same assessment process for both certifications, but SPARK Certification (Commendation) is awarded to preschools that demonstrate a higher quality in teaching and learning practices compared to those that receive SPARK Certification.
Parents can rest assured that SPARK-certified preschools, such as My First Skool, offer a well-developed preschool curriculum that integrates strong teaching pedagogy and a conducive environment to support learning.
After striving to maintain stringent standards, these schools are motivated to sustain their certification or commendation over the years. This heightened commitment from the accredited centres means that the teams must ensure their centres continuously uphold that distinction. In turn, this provides parents with further confidence that their children are in good hands.
Further along in 2025, to further enhance the quality of early childhood education, the Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA) will introduce SPARK 2.0. This updated framework aims to foster a culture of ownership and accountability among preschools, encouraging them to take charge of their quality journey through reflective practices and continuous improvement.
SPARK 2.0 is built upon three key tenets:
By focusing on these tenets and changes, SPARK 2.0 aims to elevate the overall quality of the early childhood sector, ensuring a strong foundation for our youngest learners.
As of 2025, 100% of My First Skool’s centres are SPARK-certified, with 29 centres receiving the prestigious SPARK-certified (Commendation) award. Visit our nearest branch for a tour or visit our website to learn about our programmes and curriculum.
At My First Skool, we believe every child deserves a strong start. As one of Singapore’s most trusted providers of infant care, childcare, preschool, and kindergarten, we offer a nurturing environment where little ones can grow, learn, and thrive. With experienced educators and a proven curriculum, we’re here to support your child’s journey—every step of the way. Registration only takes 5 minutes.
SPARK is a quality assurance framework by ECDA that recognizes preschools for excellence in teaching, learning, and school management.
Many of our centres are SPARK-certified, and we continue to work towards full certification across all centres.
SPARK-certified centres provide a strong, holistic learning environment that supports your child’s growth and development.
SPARK certification is valid for six years, with regular reviews to maintain high standards.
Our teachers are trained to deliver high-quality education, ensuring we meet and exceed SPARK standards.
