HEI Schools Singapore, in partnership with HEI Schools Global, is bringing the Finnish approach to early childhood education with the launch of an inclusive learning approach for children in Playgroup (18 to 24 months) through to Kindergarten 2 (5 to 6 years). Founder JAYNE NADARAJOO highlights how the preschool programme supports different learning styles while emphasising child-centred learning with emotional wellbeing.
Finnish high-quality education with happiness
“World’s happiest country” and “globally recognised high educational standards” are two characteristics that are commonly attributed to Finland, and at first the phrases might seem like they are the opposite of each other. That is, until you discover that the Finnish approach to education doesn’t have academic achievement as its key focus.
Instead, the Finnish educational pedagogy takes a student-centred approach that emphasises trust, equity and wellbeing. The focus is on play-based learning in the early years. This nurtures skills in children such as critical thinking and creativity through personalised learning paths and intrinsic motivation. It also gives teachers the autonomy to create curricula tailored to their students.
This is true of the HEI approach, too, which has pedagogy as its foundation. It’s a play-based, child-centred early childhood education model that was developed in collaboration with the University of Helsinki, one of the world’s top education research institutions, and co-founded by Professor Lasse Lipponen, a leading expert in early childhood education.
HEI prioritises play, creativity and the development of intrinsic motivation to nurture independence, critical thinking and emotional resilience in children. This forms a strong foundation for both school and life, giving children the skills they need to adapt confidently to new environments and challenges.
Bringing HEI inclusive learning approach to Singapore
The HEI approach is now available at HEI Schools Singapore, for children in Playgroup (18 to 24 months) through to Kindergarten 2 (5-6 years).
The team emphasises that the school’s inclusive learning environment and learning experiences prepare children to be confident learners ready for primary education as well as for life in diverse communities.
According to Jayne, “Inclusive classrooms give children daily opportunities to solve real social challenges together. Through building flexible thinking, problem-solving and the ability to support others in meaningful ways, children strengthen cognitive development. More importantly, it happens authentically through everyday interactions. This builds perspective-taking, reasoning and social problem-solving, which are key cognitive skills for lifelong learning.”
Jayne elaborates that teachers at HEI Schools Singapore create inclusion as a lived experience, not a planned lesson. “When teachers deeply understand how children learn, they teach more effectively. Research shows this leads to stronger cognitive, language and early academic development for all children.”
Here’s a closer look at two of the preschool and specialised programmes available.
# HEI Years – preschool programme focusing on whole child development
HEI Years is a preschool programme focusing on play-based, inquiry-led learning within a safe and nurturing environment. Rather than being rushed into academics, children are encouraged to explore, ask questions and express themselves. In this way, they build strong foundational skills such as confidence, creativity and collaboration skills and experience a joy in learning.
Jayne explains how this approach takes a broader and more meaningful view: “Traditional definitions of ‘school readiness’ often focus on early academics – reading, writing and numeracy. While important, these are only one part of the picture. The HEI preschool programme takes a broader and more meaningful view. It ensures that children are not only prepared for the next stage of school but are equipped with the mindset to thrive in any system, whether local or international.”
# HEI Bridges – supporting neurodivergent learners with future-ready education
Recognising that each child learns in unique ways, HEI Bridges is a specialised programme for neurodivergent learners. It offers individualised support that focuses on each child’s strengths.
Jayne says this reflects a fundamental shift in how education is delivered. “Rather than expecting children to fit into a system, HEI Bridges adapts the environment to the child. Children are supported in building emotional regulation, communication skills and independence, all within a safe and respectful environment.”
The programme also emphasises learning how to co-exist from a young age. This reflects the Finnish philosophy of inclusion, where children grow up learning to participate meaningfully in a community, respecting differences and building empathy.
Why HEI fits a child’s educational journey in Singapore
Families in Singapore often navigate between local and international preschool programmes. Many Singaporean families then move on to local schools for primary education, while expat families may opt for one of the international schools, with various curriculum choices.
Regardless of the educational system, children need the confidence to adapt to new environments and emotional resilience to manage the change. They also need communication skills to engage across cultures and a love for learning that sustains them long-term.
According to Jayne, the HEI approach responds directly to these needs. “HEI balances learning with wellbeing and supports diverse learning styles. This prepares children for a lifetime of transitions beyond school. This is especially timely for families seeking a more balanced, globally relevant education.”
Discover the HEI preschool programme
To learn more about the school or to schedule a tour, contact Kathy Bolouri at kathy@heischools.sg.
About Jayne Nadarajoo
Jayne has more than 26 years of experience in early childhood and international education. She’s the founding educator of White Lodge Preschools, Avondale Grammar School and Melbourne International School. The learning environments she has built are nurturing and inclusive, supporting both academic readiness and emotional wellbeing. Alumni from these schools have entered local, international and mainstream schools, and gone on to excel academically and professionally.
HEI Schools Singapore is at 11 Binchang Rise.
8970 5759 | heischools.sg
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