Don't Neglect These Information To Become A Pre-school Teacher In Singapore

21st June 2022

For many of us, it’s a dream to become a certified teacher in one of the world’s cleanest and safest countries Singapore, isn’t it? With its rich cultural mixture of Chinese, Malay, and Western influences, the country’s education system is also one of the world’s advanced systems. Now the question is how to become a certified and skilled pre-school teacher in Singapore?

To be suitable as a pre-school teacher in Singapore, you will need at least a Certificate in Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) or Diploma in ECCE. With the certificate, you will be able to teach in Nursery, Pre-Nursery and Playgroup (18 months – 4 Years Old) sections. With a diploma you will be able to teach in Kindergarten, Nursery, Pre-Nursery and Playgroup (18 months – 6 Years Old). You can also opt for the upgraded Online Pre and Primary Teacher Training Course in Singapore program. 

Along with the certifications, you will also need a strong knowledge of early childhood educational standards, exceptional interpersonal skills with a sound working knowledge of Ms Office, acaring and nurturing attitude towards children with outstanding verbal and written communication skills.  

Teaching in Singapore

As Singapore’s public education is taughtmostly in the English language, certified teachers in all subjects may meet the requirements to teach in Singapore. Additionally, teachers interested in teaching at public schools need the approval of the Ministry of Education. 

There are an ever-growing number of breaks for certified teachers too across all age groups. Moreover, international schools also offer numerous opportunities for teachers from around the globe, as ex-pats make up a large percentage of Singapore’s urban population.

Now the question comes what about the salary, right? Depending on your qualifications, salary can differ significantly based on experience and credentials. At a minimum, benefits packages usually include a relocation allowance with airfare. Numerous international schools may embrace accommodation, health care and provision for dependents as well.
 

Trends in Primary Education

Job Responsibilities 

Following are the typical roles and duties of a preschool teacher in Singapore ---

• Generate a secure and quality learning environment for children through nurturing trusting and humble relationships with them.

• Support the holistic growth of children through executing a developmentally and culturally apt curriculum.

• Build partnerships with parents as well as families, and actively engages in centre creativities to support its collective efforts with the community.

• Engage in constant learning as well asthoughtful practice. You will be working closely with colleagues and contribute to a culture of teamwork.

• Create learning activities that are fun and educational for the children.

• Prepare reports on possible concerns about students as to management as required. 

• Manage day-to-day classroom doings, including organized lessons, free play, bathroom breaks, lunch time and rest time for students.

Some additional preschool teacher job titles are - Lead Preschool Teacher, Early Childhood Teacher, etc.

Generally, applications for several schools and language institutions in Singapore are accepted year-round. The academic year starts in January, and following that, schools take a month-long holiday in June, plus a six-week holiday at the end of each year. 

Visa Requirements

You can apply for one of three kinds:

• Employment Pass (EP). This visa is also called the “gold standard” of work visas, allowing holders to stay in Singapore for two years and take on any job. You have to have a university degree or equivalent experience.

• S Pass. The S Pass works like an EP, but it has some boundaries—for example, holders must earn at least $2,000 per month and hold a bachelor's degree from an approved institution. It also lasts for six months instead of two years for an EP holder.

• Work Permit (WP). This one lets you stay in Singapore only long enough to complete your contract period—and maybe not even that long if your employer changes their mind about hiring foreigners!

Usually, your employer will apply for your Employment Pass or Work Permit on your behalf if you have been offered a job. It is essential to have secured a job offer before you can be considered for a visa that allows you to teach in Singapore.

Living in Singapore

After all the significant areas of concern, the cost of living in Singapore has been rising rapidly in recent years. Nevertheless, teaching salaries are considerably more generous here than in several other countries and do reflect the cost of living. Compared to many Western cities, the cost of living is surprisingly affordable. 

Singapore is its own city-state. It consists of 63 islands, therefore traveling to the beach is always an option. Trains, buses, and taxis are quite affordable so you can pass your leisure time by traveling within Singapore. Over 50% of the city is green space and cuisines are diverse!

A few things you should avoid while staying in Singapore are – Littering, Touching or pointing at people and staring at people, particularly in public places like on the MRT or bus (the mass rapid transit). This is considered enormously rude.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right preschool teaching job experience can be tough. This beautiful country’s whole-hearted tropical climate, safe environment, and inclusive list of benefits make it a popular destination for many teachers. All you need is an Online Pre and Primary Teacher Training Course in Singapore program. With the above-mentioned details, we hope you will be able to get a teaching job in Singapore!