Anchor Operator (AOP) preschools are government-supported childcare centres designed to provide quality early childhood education at affordable prices. There are five main AOPs in Singapore. PCF Sparkletots, My First Skool, E-Bridge Preschool, Skool4Kidz, and M.Y World Preschool.
From 1 January 2025, AOP fees are capped at $640 per month for full-day childcare, $1,235 per month for full-day infant care, and $150 per month for kindergarten before GST. Singaporean families also qualify for Basic and Additional Subsidies from ECDA, which can lower actual monthly costs substantially depending on income level.
Summary Comparison for family of 3 (income $10,000)
| Programme | Max Cap Fee Before Subsidy for Singaporean | Subsidy (Working Mother) | Fee After Subsidy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Infant Care | $1,235 + 9% GST = $1346.15 | $600 | $746.15 |
| Childcare | $680 + 9% GST = $741.20 | $300 | $441.20 |
| Kindergarten | $150 + 9 GST = $163.50 | $0 | $163.50 |
PCF Sparkletots
PCF Sparkletots uses a play-based and inquiry-led curriculum that focuses on literacy, numeracy, and social skills. The learning environment varies across its more than 360 centres, which are mostly located within heartland neighbourhoods. Teachers receive ongoing training, though quality can differ slightly by centre. Fees are among the lowest available, and parents appreciate the easy accessibility and community-based approach.
My First Skool (by NTUC First Campus)
My First Skool follows the PETAL™ curriculum, which develops children’s social-emotional and cognitive skills through hands-on experiences. Centres are modern and well-equipped, and teacher standards are generally consistent across locations due to strong professional development programmes. Parents often describe the environment as nurturing and structured, though some popular branches have long waiting lists.
E-Bridge Preschool (by EtonHouse)
E-Bridge applies a Reggio Emilia-inspired approach that encourages exploration, creativity, and self-expression. Classrooms are bright and open, designed to inspire curiosity. Teachers act as facilitators, helping children learn through dialogue and play. The approach is less traditional but appeals to families who value creativity and independence. Fees remain within the AOP cap, offering an accessible way to experience the EtonHouse philosophy.
Skool4Kidz
Skool4Kidz integrates a nature-inspired curriculum with outdoor and experiential learning. Lessons often take place in gardens or open-air spaces where children learn about the environment through hands-on discovery. Many centres are large, campus-style facilities that include technology corners and sensory play areas. Parents like the balance between academics and outdoor play, and the affordability remains within AOP standards.
M.Y World Preschool (by Metropolitan YMCA)
M.Y World emphasises character development, empathy, and social responsibility through an inquiry-based programme. The centres are smaller and community-oriented, creating a homely environment. Teachers are known for their warmth and care, guided by YMCA’s values of honesty, respect, and responsibility. Although facilities are simpler than some larger operators, parents appreciate the heart-centred culture and emphasis on values.
Summary Comparison
| Operator | Curriculum | Environment | Teacher Quality | Meal Preparation | Parent Impression |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PCF Sparkletots | Play-based and structured | Community-based, wide network | Trained under PCF Academy | Prepared in a central kitchen and delivered daily to centres Only infant food is prepared at each centre based. | Affordable and accessible |
| My First Skool | PETAL™ holistic development | Modern, well-equipped centres | Strong and consistent | Prepared freshly at each centre based on a central nutrition plan | Nurturing and reliable |
| E-Bridge Preschool | Reggio Emilia-inspired inquiry | Bright, creative learning spaces | Facilitators guide exploration | Prepared freshly at each centre based on a central nutrition plan | Artistic and expressive |
| Skool4Kidz | Nature-based and experiential | Outdoor, campus-style environments | Encourages curiosity and play | Prepared in a central kitchen and delivered daily to centres | Energetic and engaging |
| M.Y World Preschool | Values-driven inquiry | Homely and community-based | Nurturing and empathetic | Prepared freshly at each centre following a central nutrition plan | Heartfelt and wholesome |
💖 Give Your Little One a Head Start and Yourself Peace of Mind
If you’re ready to take the next step in your preschool journey, head over to our Supermom Perks page to explore exclusive partner offers. Enrol with one of our participating preschools for a year and enjoy a 3-month free scholarship, giving your child a confident start while you enjoy extra savings and peace of mind.
💡 Supermom Tip
For a household earning $10,000/month, enrolling your child in an Anchor Operator preschool remains highly cost-effective, with childcare costing below $800/month after subsidy. Use MomGenie on WhatsApp to auto-calculate your exact post-subsidy amount.
