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Should I Enrol My Child in an MOE Kindergarten? (2025)
April 21, 2025
Education
Positive Parenting
Choosing the appropriate preschool for your child is a pivotal decision that can significantly influence their early educational journey and holistic development. In Singapore, the Ministry of Education (MOE) Kindergartens have garnered attention for their structured curriculum and affordability.
This article delves into the advantages and considerations of enrolling your child in an MOE Kindergarten and how My First Skool, with its inquiry-based learning, bilingual education, and strong teacher-child relationships, is a noteworthy alternative.
What are MOE Kindergartens?
MOE Kindergarten are public preschools providing affordable education to Singapore Citizens and PRs. Their curriculum is anchored on the Nurturing Early Learners (NEL) Framework, which aims to provide children with a strong start through holistic skill development, nurturing a love for learning, and cultivating character and life skills to prepare them for P1.
Flagship Programmes
HI-Light Programme: Designed to instil values, social and emotional skills, along with learning skills across five key domains. This integrated approach engages children in various ways, fostering a positive learning attitude.
Starlight Literacy Programme: Promotes bilingualism. Using Big Books, games, songs, and rhymes, the programme enhances language acquisition and early childhood literacy skills. With learning activities and content set in the local context, children learn to appreciate diverse cultures, values, and identities.
To promote self-motivated learning, MK students undertake a “Weeks of Wonder” (WoW) project each term. Collaborating in groups, they learn to work together, communicate ideas, and solve problems.
Key Considerations Before Enrolling in an MOE Kindergarten
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Availability of Locations
The availability of MOE Kindergartens may not extend to all neighbourhoods, necessitating considerations regarding travel time and convenience.
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Standardised Programmes
Unlike some private preschools offering specialised enrichment programs, MOE Kindergartens maintain a standardised curriculum. Parents seeking additional activities may need to pursue external options.
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Primary School Admission
Attendance at an MOE Kindergarten does not guarantee priority admission to primary schools; the standard Primary 1 registration process applies.
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Class Size and Individual Attention
Larger class sizes in MOE Kindergartens may impact the level of individual attention each child receives compared to some private preschools.
Benefits of MOE Kindergartens
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Comprehensive Curriculum
MOE Kindergartens adhere to the Nurturing Early Learners (NEL) framework, emphasizing holistic development across various domains, including language, numeracy, social skills, and creativity.
At My First Skool, we have a unique PETAL framework—Playing, Exploring, Thinking, and Applying Learning—that goes beyond classroom basics. Children engage in inquiry-based projects, dramatic learning corners, and even visits to partner primary schools, giving them a strong head start in both academic and life skills.
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Transition to Primary Education
The alignment of MOE Kindergartens with Singapore’s primary school curriculum facilitates a seamless transition for children advancing to MOE primary schools, as they are already acquainted with the teaching methodologies and educational structure.
Sometimes, switching from a preschool to an MOE Kindergarten can cause disruption or anxiety for young children as they adjust to new teachers, routines, and environments.
At My First Skool, children benefit from emotional continuity—many start their journey here from infancy and grow in a familiar, nurturing setting. This stability, paired with rich learning experiences, helps ease the transition to primary school and supports their confidence every step of the way.
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Affordability
With fees capped at $160 per month before subsidies, MOE Kindergartens offer a cost-effective option for quality early childhood education. Additional financial assistance is available for eligible families, enhancing accessibility.
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Qualified Educators
Educators in MOE Kindergartens undergo rigorous training and adhere to high teaching standards, ensuring that children receive quality education from dedicated professionals.
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Emphasis on Values and Social Development
A strong focus on character development instils values such as respect, responsibility, and teamwork, which are essential for lifelong success.
A Strong Alternative: My First Skool
For parents exploring alternatives to MOE Kindergartens, My First Skool, operated by NTUC First Campus, presents a compelling option.
Starting early at My First Skool means your child builds familiar, secure relationships with teachers and peers—minimising anxiety and disruption that can come with switching to a new environment like an MOE Kindergarten. With emotional continuity and deep learning experiences, MFS prepares children for primary school—and beyond.
With over 160 SPARK-certified centres across Singapore, parents can enjoy greater accessibility and convenience across the entire island.
Classrooms are designed with purposeful learning corners, including dramatic play areas, reading nooks, and science exploration zones, where children learn through imaginative play and real-world experiences. These environments are not just engaging—they also mirror elements of primary school settings, helping children transition smoothly when the time comes.
We pride ourselves on a quality and holistic preschool curriculum designed to foster children’s development across multiple domains.
Our unique pedagogical approach, PETAL—Playing, Exploring, Thinking, and Applying Learning—provides facilitated play experiences that aid children’s holistic development.
Key Features of My First Skool:
- Accessibility: With over 160 centres islandwide, My First Skool ensures that quality preschool education is within reach for many families.
- Qualified Educators: The dedication and expertise of My First Skool’s educators have been recognised through various awards, including the SkillsFuture Fellowship and the Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA) Awards.
- Conducive Learning Environments: Centres are purposefully designed to ensure a nurturing setting conducive to children’s growth and well-being.
Over 160 Centres Islandwide – Quality Childcare, Minutes from Home
Every year, over 26,000 families all across Singapore see their children benefit from our relationships-based curriculum – one that emphasises forging strong bonds between children, teachers and parents. Find a centre near you or take a virtual tour to explore our learning environments and learn how your child can thrive.
Conclusion
Deciding whether to enrol your child in an MOE Kindergarten or an alternative like My First Skool depends on various factors, including location, curriculum preferences, and financial considerations.
Both institutions offer quality early childhood education with unique features. A thorough evaluation of your child’s needs and family priorities will guide you in making the most suitable choice for their early educational journey.
FAQ
How to register for an MOE Kindergarten?
Registration for MOE Kindergarten is only open the year before your child turns 5 for K1. Admission for K2 programs is subject to availability at your preferred centre. You can directly register at MOE’s website.
How long are the lessons, and are there extended care options for working parents?
At MOE Kindergartens, lessons are conducted for 4 hours, either in the morning (8am to 12pm) or afternoon (1pm to 5pm). Afterwards, an adult caregiver must pick up the child.
Kindergarten Care (KCare)
Alternatively, families without caregiving options outside of MK school hours can send their child to Kindergarten Care (KCare) before or after class, located within all MOE Kindergartens. This full-day service operates from 7am to 7pm.
What are the fees and subsidies for MK and KCare?
As of March 2025, MK and KCare fees are:
MOE Kindergarten Fees (2025)
- $160 per month for Singapore Citizens
- $320 per month for PRs
- Fees are payable during the June and December holidays.
- No additional costs for complementary programmes such as field trips.
Kindergarten Care (KCare) Fees (2025)
- Up to $415 per month
- KCare fees are also payable during school holidays.
- All Singapore Citizen children are eligible for a basic KCare subsidy of $150 per month.
Childcare subsidies for preschools in Singapore do not apply to MKs, as they are not classified as childcare centres. However, families requiring financial assistance can check if they qualify for the Kindergarten Fee Assistance Scheme (KiFAS).
How do I choose which MOE Kindergarten to register for?
When choosing an MOE Kindergarten, consider the following factors:
- Proximity to Home: Children living near the kindergarten are given priority during the registration process.
- Affiliation with Primary Schools: Some MKs are co-located with primary schools, which may offer priority admission to MK students during P1 registration.
- Registration Phases and Priority Orders: Families with a Gross Household Income (GHI) not exceeding $4,500 per month or Per Capita Income (PCI) not exceeding $1,125 per month, who live within 1km of the kindergarten, are eligible to register under Priority Order 1.
- Availability of Kindergarten Care (KCare): If you require a full-day service, check if the MK offers KCare service.
