The transition from preschool to primary school can be a big jump for children. LIANE SHAW, Director of Play at Shaws Preschool, shares with us how their play-based learning programme prepares preschoolers for this transition and their journey through life. Plus, find out how you can tour the campuses of this play-based preschool in their upcoming Open Houses at five locations, including thee East Coast preschools.
What’s the background of Shaws Preschool?
In 1988, the first Shaws Preschool opened its doors in Katong. At that time, play-based learning was virtually unheard of in the region. Inspired by research and practices observed in Australia and New Zealand, our founder Lucy Shaw created an environment with rich hands-on experiences for children to learn through play.
Lucy’s motivation was simple yet profound – to allow children to be children. She wanted children to love learning, engage in play and be prepared not just academically but for life. The goal was to create an environment where the children’s laughter could be heard even before you saw the school. This vision included ample indoor and outdoor spaces where children could run, explore, and learn by touching, seeing and feeling.
Two years later, a second location in Braddell Heights followed. It remains in its original location, while the Katong campus has relocated twice.
These were the only two Shaws Preschool campuses for more than two decades, until the school expanded to include additional campuses – two in the East and another in Serangoon Gardens – to meet the growing demand for our unique educational approach.
Shaws Preschool now operates five campuses (including three East Coast preschools) with around 500 preschoolers with a diverse community encompassing numerous nationalities. Each child is prepared for any primary school they may choose, thanks to a dedicated team, including myself, who have been with Shaws for 21 years.
What’s the Shaws difference?
Over the past 35 years, our child-first philosophy ensures our unwavering commitment to play-based learning. There are several key factors that have been pivotal to our enduring success.
Unwavering commitment to children first: Our philosophy centres on creating a warm, supportive environment where each child feels valued and empowered. By focusing on individual needs and fostering a love for learning, we ensure every child thrives both academically and emotionally.
Evolving with the times: We continuously adapt our curriculum and teaching methods to incorporate the latest research and technology. This approach ensures that our preschoolers are equipped with the skills and knowledge they will need in the future. We emphasise critical thinking, creativity and adaptability – skills that are increasingly vital in today’s ever-changing world.
Holistic development: We aim to shape well-rounded individuals who are ready to face the challenges of their future lives as adults. This means instilling values such as resilience, empathy and collaboration from a young age, and giving them the self confidence to never be afraid to ask questions.
Importance of sport: We recognise that physical activity not only supports physical health but also enhances cognitive and social skills. By incorporating sports into our Shaws Preschool curriculum, we ensure that our preschoolers develop coordination, teamwork and a love for an active lifestyle.
Strong community involvement: Building a collaborative relationship with families helps us create a supportive network that reinforces our educational goals and fosters a sense of belonging.
Our strong team of passionate teachers, supported by a dedicated curriculum team, ensures that every child is at the centre of the learning experience.
How does your play-based preschool approach prepare preschoolers for big school?
This transition is a concern for many parents. Shaws Preschool addresses this with a comprehensive approach that prepares our preschoolers both academically and emotionally. Whether they’re moving into the Singapore education system or an international school curriculum, Shaws preschoolers transition seamlessly, equipped with the skills and confidence they need.
Attend an Open House at Shaws Preschool
Experience the Shaws community at the Shaws Preschool Open House on Saturday, 24 August, from 9am to 1pm. Your kids can experience how learning through play is at the heart of this play-based preschool through hands-on activities.
The whole family can meet the team, explore the creative indoor and outdoor spaces, and find out how Shaws preschools can transform a child’s early education journey. There are five locations in Singapore, including three East Coast preschools.
Book a space here or make an appointment through Olive, the Enrolment Manager, olive@shaws.com.sg.
- Braddell Heights Campus: 24 Lynwood Grove
- Lorong Chuan Campus: 5 Mei Hwan Road
- Tanjong Katong Campus: 4A Boscombe Road (off Katong Road)
- Katong Post Campus: 373A Katong Road
- Mountbatten Campus: 855 Mountbatten Road
Enjoyed reading about this school with five locations including three East Coast preschools? Read more in our Kids section for ideas on things to do with kids and also parent reviews of preschools in Singapore.
