Discover Finland’s preschool approach in Singapore

For many families living in Singapore, choosing a preschool today is about far more than academics. Parents are increasingly looking for schools where children feel emotionally supported, confident and genuinely excited to learn especially in an environment where education can often feel highly structured from a very young age. Hence HEI Schools Singapore is attracting growing interest among internationally minded families seeking a more balanced approach to early childhood education.

Developed in partnership with HEI Schools Global, the preschool brings Finland’s internationally recognised education philosophy to Singapore through a play-based, child-centred learning model focused on wellbeing, confidence and lifelong learning.

Finland is often recognised as one of the happiest countries in the world, and its education system is equally respected globally. Interestingly, its success is not built on academic pressure or excessive testing. Instead, Finnish education focuses on trust, creativity, emotional wellbeing and allowing children to learn naturally through exploration and play. The HEI concept was developed in collaboration with the University of Helsinki and co-founded by Professor Lasse Lipponen, a leading expert in early childhood education. Today, HEI Schools has expanded internationally, bringing its research-based approach to families around the world.

A Right Start – Building Skills for Life

At HEI Schools Singapore, learning is designed to support the whole child not just academic development.

The HEI Preschool Programme encourages children to explore, ask questions and express themselves within calm and nurturing learning environments. Rather than rushing children into structured academics too early, the focus is placed on helping them build confidence, creativity, communication skills and emotional resilience. Teachers guide learning through play, collaboration and inquiry-led activities, helping children develop independence and curiosity naturally.

For families navigating international school systems and transitions between countries, these qualities can be just as important as academic readiness. Many parents today are recognising that adaptability, emotional resilience and strong communication skills are essential foundations for future success. The preschool welcomes children from Playgroup through to Kindergarten 2 and offers an inclusive environment where children are encouraged to learn at their own pace while developing a genuine love for learning.

Inclusion & Individualised Support

One of the defining features of HEI Schools Singapore is its strong emphasis on inclusive education. Through the specialised HEI Bridges programme, neurodivergent learners receive personalised support tailored to their individual strengths and developmental needs.

The programme focuses on emotional regulation, communication, independence and social confidence within a respectful and supportive environment. Rather than expecting children to adapt to one system, HEI Bridges adapts the environment to the child. Children are also encouraged to learn how to co-exist meaningfully with others from a young age, helping foster empathy, understanding and connection. For many families, this more holistic and compassionate approach feels both reassuring and refreshing.

At its heart, HEI Schools Singapore is not simply preparing children for the next stage of school, but helping them grow into curious, capable and compassionate individuals ready to thrive in an increasingly global world.

To learn more about the school or to schedule a tour, contact Kathy Bolouri at [email protected] or WhatsApp 8970 5759 or visit the school’s website www.heischools.sg.

About Jayne Nadarajoo, founder of HEI Schools Singapore

Jayne has more than 26 years of experience in early childhood and international education. She’s the founding director of White Lodge Preschools, Avondale Grammar School, Melbourne International School and The GUILD International College. The learning environments she has built are nurturing and inclusive, supporting both academic readiness and emotional well-being. Alumni from these schools have entered local, international and mainstream schools, and go on to excel academically and personally.

HEI Schools Singapore is at 11 Binchang Rise, 579882.

8970 5759 | heischools.sg