Preschools in Singapore are a great choice for both local and expat families as they offer globally recognized curricula, outstanding academics plus a nurturing environment for children. Discover our selection of the best Preschools in Singapore, including reviews, fees, and why families choose them.
Table of Contents
Why choose a preschool in Singapore
Preschool education, often considered the first step in a lifelong educational journey, is designed to stimulate young minds in a nurturing environment. At this stage, children aged three to six years are introduced to the basics of academic learning while heavily emphasizing social, physical, and emotional development. The goal is to lay a solid foundation that prepares them for the structure and expectations of formal schooling.
Curriculum and Learning Approaches
Preschools in Singapore adopt various curricula, from Montessori to Reggio Emilia and local frameworks, each with its unique approach to early childhood education. Despite these differences, the core focus remains on creating interactive learning experiences. Activities are designed to foster curiosity and exploration. For instance, through storytelling, play, and thematic learning modules, children learn basic numeracy and literacy, but also essential life skills like communication, empathy, and resilience.
Developmental Milestones
During these formative years, children achieve critical developmental milestones. Educators pay close attention to enhancing motor skills through activities like cutting with scissors or drawing. Cognitive skills are sharpened through problem-solving tasks and puzzles, while language skills are bolstered through reading sessions and interactive dialogue. The social aspect involves group activities that teach children to cooperate, share, and interact respectfully with peers.
The Role of Play
Play is a fundamental component of preschool education, recognized not just for its role in relaxation but as a powerful learning tool. Through play, children develop imagination and creativity. It also serves as a natural way for them to learn about the world around them, manage their emotions, and build social skills. Play-based learning is thus a critical aspect of the preschool curriculum, helping to cement the knowledge that children gain in a fun and engaging way.
Preparing for Future Education
While the immediate focus of preschool is on basic skills and social interactions, it also serves to prepare children for the more structured learning environment of primary school. The transition includes not only academic preparedness but also adjustment to a more regular schedule and longer hours, aspects that are gradually introduced during the preschool years.
In conclusion, preschool education in Singapore is a carefully crafted blend of learning and play, designed to build a broad range of skills. By fostering a love for learning and helping children develop a sense of independence and confidence, preschools play a pivotal role in shaping the educational and personal growth of young learners.
Popular destinations
Popular destinations
Top rated Preschools in Singapore 2025
This Preschools list is informed by World Schools data—we consider parents and students reviews, ratings, number of page views, and user location.
St. Joseph’s Institution International
South-eastern Asia - Singapore
SJI International is a Lasallian Catholic school in Singapore that offers a holistic, values-driven, international educational experience to a 2,000-strong student body of over 40 nationalities.
Why parents choose this school
The Grange Institution and International Preschool
South-eastern Asia - Singapore
Here at The Grange, learning and the Learner is at the heart of all curricular and co-curricular decisions.
Why parents choose this school
Dover Court International School
South-eastern Asia - Singapore
Dover Court International School is an inclusive British international school in Singapore.
Why parents choose this school
Chatsworth International School
South-eastern Asia - Singapore
As one of the top IB schools in Singapore, Chatsworth International School provides a balanced and individualised K-12 education in a diverse learning environment for students.
Why parents choose this school
2025
International School Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh - Ho Chi Minh City
International School Ho Chi Minh City (ISHCMC) established in 1993 and is the first IB World School in Vietnam, which provides IB with a culturally diverse perspective to students aged 2 - 18 years.
Why parents choose this school
2025
Bromsgrove International School Thailand
Central Thailand - Bangkok
Bromsgrove International School Thailand (BIST) is a British Curriculum Day and Boarding School for students aged 2-18.
Why parents choose this school
2025
Prince of Wales Island International School
George Town - Balik Pulau
Welcome to Prince of Wales Island International School (POWIIS). We offer a broad and balanced education based on a British-style curriculum for students aged 3 to 19.
Why parents choose this school
2025
St. Joseph’s Institution International
South-eastern Asia - Singapore
SJI International is a Lasallian Catholic school in Singapore that offers a holistic, values-driven, international educational experience to a 2,000-strong student body of over 40 nationalities.
Why parents choose this school
2025
The Grange Institution and International Preschool
South-eastern Asia - Singapore
Here at The Grange, learning and the Learner is at the heart of all curricular and co-curricular decisions.
Why parents choose this school
2025
Nexus International School, Malaysia
Malaysia - Kuala Lumpur
Nexus International School, stands as a beacon of innovative learning, offering an outstanding international education for learners aged 3-18 years, whilst providing an international boarding experience for ages 10 years and up.
Why parents choose this school
2025
Epsom College in Malaysia
Negeri Sembilan - Bandar Enstek
Founded in 2014, Epsom College in Malaysia is the only sister school of the prestigious Epsom College in the UK, which was honoured as 'Independent School of the Year 2022.' Epsom College in Malaysia provides a transformative learning experience, combining over 200 years of excellence in education and pastoral care with a wide array of opportunities.
Why parents choose this school
2025
Regents International School Pattaya
Bang Lamung District - Pattaya
Regents International School Pattaya is like no other school in Thailand. As part of the family of 66 Nord Anglia schools located around the world, we provide unique learning opportunities far beyond the ordinary. We are an exciting, vibrant and inclusive school which has something to offer to every child and every family in our dynamic and diverse community.
Why parents choose this school
2025
Rugby School Thailand
Chon Buri - Bang Lamung District
A co-educational international school for day and boarding students aged 2-18 that follows the British curriculum. Students take IGCSE and A Level examinations in preparation for university entry.
Why parents choose this school
2025
Why parents choose this school
2025
British International School, Phuket
Southern Thailand - Phuket
British International School, Phuket (BISP), is an English medium, co-educational, day and boarding school that was established in 1996 in the heart of Phuket, Thailand.
Why parents choose this school
KIS International School Reignwood Park Campus
Pathum Thani - Lam Luk Ka District
KIS International School Reignwood Park is a new world-class 60-acre campus opening August 2024 for students aged 3 to 18, from Early Years to Grade 12.
Why parents choose this school
Why parents choose this school
Jerudong International School
Brunei Muara - Bandar Seri Begawan
In January 2019, Jerudong International School (JISBrunei) was the first international school in the world to achieve the highest rating in all 9 areas inspected by the British Schools Overseas (BSO) inspectorate.
Why parents choose this school
Dwight School Hanoi
Vietnam - Hanoi
Dwight School Hanoi is the newest member of the Dwight Schools global network of premier International Baccalaureate World Schools.
Why parents choose this school
Why parents choose this school
Wellington College International School Bangkok
Central Thailand - Bangkok
Wellington College Bangkok is a modern, progressive co-educational day school catering for children from 2-18, which follows the National Curriculum for England, developed and enhanced in ways appropriate to our Thai and Asian context.
Why parents choose this school
Dover Court International School
South-eastern Asia - Singapore
Dover Court International School is an inclusive British international school in Singapore.
Why parents choose this school
Chatsworth International School
South-eastern Asia - Singapore
As one of the top IB schools in Singapore, Chatsworth International School provides a balanced and individualised K-12 education in a diverse learning environment for students.
Why parents choose this school
Why parents choose this school
Tips for Choosing a School in Singapore
Parent and Student Reviews of Preschools in Singapore
- Both children have been attending Dover Court since they started in Reception at the age of five. It’s a medium-sized international school and that size brings a lot of pluses. Our children are given a lot of individual attention, and encouraged to have self-belief and be ambitious in the classroom and on the sports field. We like the English National Curriculum with an international focus that the primary school offers. In secondary, the students study for the IGCSE, while the school’s Sixth Form teaches the IB Diploma.
Our children could end up living anywhere in the world, so a global element to the curriculum was important to us, including learning languages. As the school is part of the Nord Anglia group of schools, it has a teacher university programme ensuring teachers are up to date with teaching practices. Children also have access to the Global Campus where they can share ideas and experiences with children from other Nord Anglia schools around the world.
We heard about the school through word of mouth. During our visit, we liked the warm welcome from staff, the nurturing environment, and the emphasis on children as individuals. Both children are thriving and are active members of the swim, netball, football, rugby and athletic teams. The school offers an exceptional overseas excursion programme where the emphasis is on helping in the community, team building and environmental issues. The school also invests in new classrooms, great teacher-training programmes, upgraded facilities and an extensive after-school programme. The school has an active parent community that creates fantastic events for families.Written February 25, 2023 - We applied to DCIS over 8 years ago because we wanted a welcoming community atmosphere to suit our son. He was initially accepted into Pathway 3, and when our daughter joined a few years later it was great to have a school that suited both of them. Through the continued support of the excellent teachers our son has now transitioned into the mainstream. However, he benefits from the smaller class sizes at DCIS and from having access to all the specialist staff as and when he needs.
With much needed investment from Nord Anglia Education, the school is now over twice the size of when we first joined. It has however managed to maintain the small, friendly atmosphere that first attracted us, and continues to be a leading example of an inclusive school.Written February 25, 2023 - Our two children, who are in Secondary and Upper Primary, have been students at Dover Court International School for 7 years now. Both girls are extremely happy and they continue to develop through the relevant and inspirational teaching. Originally from the UK, we appreciate the smaller class sizes and the wonderful feeling of community within the school, something that adds to the children’s confidence and security. We have always been very impressed with the teachers, not only are they wonderful role models but they also show the children what it is to have fun whilst illustrating respect and integrity at all times.
The school has grown significantly during our years there, but manage to keep that small school feel that first attracted us. Being part of the Nord Anglia Education family of schools and having various accreditations brings some amazing opportunities. The school regularly receives visits from inspiring speakers, my girls have particularly enjoyed participating in workshops with both Juilliard alumni and world leading athletes. The school has an extensive trip programme, with opportunities spanning from STEAM festivals, music festivals, to debating, maths and big sports events. Both our girls have had the privilege to take part in the FOBISIA games, where they competed against students from other British schools in Asia, a fantastic experience for them.Written February 25, 2023 - Overall, we have been very happy with the school – the friends that our children have made, the parents that we know, the well-balanced and the well-thought-out curriculum, the excellent teaching and the emphasis placed on the character education.Written February 25, 2023
- The teachers are excellent, caring and committed individuals who have the best interests of the children at heart. Through discussions and parent workshop, it’s evident that they aim to foster to foster a love for learning.Written February 25, 2023
- The High School ethics of service to the community, academic excellence and respect for one another are very impressive- and the IB results obtained by the students are truly remarkable.Written February 25, 2023
- I’m glad that my children are going to class with and creating great friendships with Singaporeans, which is important for integration in this country.Written February 25, 2023
- The dedication and commitment of the staff alone are enough to recommend St. Joseph’s!Written February 25, 2023
- The school provides holistic education, focusing not only on academics but also on character education and cultural experience. It has provided our family with a supportive and friendly community.Written February 25, 2023
- Rupert has attended St. Joseph’s Institution International since Prep 1 in January 2016 whilst Harvey commenced Prep 1 in January 2018. We’ve loved the school ever since we joined, and the school has become a significant part of our lives in Singapore.Written February 25, 2023
- Both children have been attending Dover Court since they started in Reception at the age of five. It’s a medium-sized international school and that size brings a lot of pluses. Our children are given a lot of individual attention, and encouraged to have self-belief and be ambitious in the classroom and on the sports field. We like the English National Curriculum with an international focus that the primary school offers. In secondary, the students study for the IGCSE, while the school’s Sixth Form teaches the IB Diploma.
Our children could end up living anywhere in the world, so a global element to the curriculum was important to us, including learning languages. As the school is part of the Nord Anglia group of schools, it has a teacher university programme ensuring teachers are up to date with teaching practices. Children also have access to the Global Campus where they can share ideas and experiences with children from other Nord Anglia schools around the world.
We heard about the school through word of mouth. During our visit, we liked the warm welcome from staff, the nurturing environment, and the emphasis on children as individuals. Both children are thriving and are active members of the swim, netball, football, rugby and athletic teams. The school offers an exceptional overseas excursion programme where the emphasis is on helping in the community, team building and environmental issues. The school also invests in new classrooms, great teacher-training programmes, upgraded facilities and an extensive after-school programme. The school has an active parent community that creates fantastic events for families.Written February 25, 2023 - We applied to DCIS over 8 years ago because we wanted a welcoming community atmosphere to suit our son. He was initially accepted into Pathway 3, and when our daughter joined a few years later it was great to have a school that suited both of them. Through the continued support of the excellent teachers our son has now transitioned into the mainstream. However, he benefits from the smaller class sizes at DCIS and from having access to all the specialist staff as and when he needs.
With much needed investment from Nord Anglia Education, the school is now over twice the size of when we first joined. It has however managed to maintain the small, friendly atmosphere that first attracted us, and continues to be a leading example of an inclusive school.Written February 25, 2023 - Our two children, who are in Secondary and Upper Primary, have been students at Dover Court International School for 7 years now. Both girls are extremely happy and they continue to develop through the relevant and inspirational teaching. Originally from the UK, we appreciate the smaller class sizes and the wonderful feeling of community within the school, something that adds to the children’s confidence and security. We have always been very impressed with the teachers, not only are they wonderful role models but they also show the children what it is to have fun whilst illustrating respect and integrity at all times.
The school has grown significantly during our years there, but manage to keep that small school feel that first attracted us. Being part of the Nord Anglia Education family of schools and having various accreditations brings some amazing opportunities. The school regularly receives visits from inspiring speakers, my girls have particularly enjoyed participating in workshops with both Juilliard alumni and world leading athletes. The school has an extensive trip programme, with opportunities spanning from STEAM festivals, music festivals, to debating, maths and big sports events. Both our girls have had the privilege to take part in the FOBISIA games, where they competed against students from other British schools in Asia, a fantastic experience for them.Written February 25, 2023 - Overall, we have been very happy with the school – the friends that our children have made, the parents that we know, the well-balanced and the well-thought-out curriculum, the excellent teaching and the emphasis placed on the character education.Written February 25, 2023
- The teachers are excellent, caring and committed individuals who have the best interests of the children at heart. Through discussions and parent workshop, it’s evident that they aim to foster to foster a love for learning.Written February 25, 2023
- The High School ethics of service to the community, academic excellence and respect for one another are very impressive- and the IB results obtained by the students are truly remarkable.Written February 25, 2023
- I’m glad that my children are going to class with and creating great friendships with Singaporeans, which is important for integration in this country.Written February 25, 2023
- The dedication and commitment of the staff alone are enough to recommend St. Joseph’s!Written February 25, 2023
- The school provides holistic education, focusing not only on academics but also on character education and cultural experience. It has provided our family with a supportive and friendly community.Written February 25, 2023
- Rupert has attended St. Joseph’s Institution International since Prep 1 in January 2016 whilst Harvey commenced Prep 1 in January 2018. We’ve loved the school ever since we joined, and the school has become a significant part of our lives in Singapore.Written February 25, 2023
Summary
Preschool education in Singapore emphasizes a blend of academic learning and essential life skills through various curricula, focusing on interactive and play-based learning experiences. It aims to nurture curiosity, foster social skills, and prepare children for the structured demands of formal schooling, ensuring a well-rounded development.