Table Of Contents
- Introduction to Nascans Student Care
- Nascans Student Care Fee Structure
- Subsidies and Financial Assistance
- Nascans Student Care Locations
- Nascans Student Care Services and Programmes
- Comparing Nascans with Other Student Care Providers
- How to Register for Nascans Student Care
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Nascans Student Care Complete Guide: Understanding Fees, Services and Locations
Finding the right student care centre in Singapore is a crucial decision for many parents balancing work commitments with their children’s educational needs. Nascans, one of Singapore’s leading student care providers, offers extensive services across numerous locations throughout the island. However, understanding their fee structures, subsidies, and service offerings can be challenging for busy parents.
This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about Nascans Student Care fees, locations, and programmes to help you make an informed decision for your child. Whether you’re considering enrolling your child in Nascans or comparing it with other student care options, this article provides the essential information every parent needs.
Introduction to Nascans Student Care
Nascans is a well-established student care provider in Singapore that has been operating since 2006. As a subsidiary of the Singapore Exchange-listed MindChamps PreSchool Limited, Nascans has built a reputation for delivering quality before and after-school care services for primary school children aged 7 to 12 years.
The organisation’s approach combines supervised homework guidance with enrichment activities designed to complement the Ministry of Education’s curriculum. Their centres operate on school days from as early as 7:00 AM until 7:00 PM, providing a supervised environment for children whose parents work full-time.
What distinguishes Nascans from many other student care providers is their extensive network of both school-based and community-based centres, making them accessible to families across different neighbourhoods in Singapore. This convenience, coupled with their structured programmes, makes them a popular choice among working parents.
Nascans Student Care Fee Structure
Understanding Nascans’ fee structure is essential for budget planning. Their fees vary based on several factors, including whether the centre is school-based or community-based, the specific location, and the type of programme your child enrolls in.
Registration and Deposit Fees
Before enrolling your child in Nascans Student Care, parents should be prepared for initial one-time payments:
- Registration Fee: A one-time non-refundable fee ranging from $50 to $100 (inclusive of GST).
- Deposit: Typically equivalent to one month’s fee, refundable when your child withdraws from the programme, provided proper notice is given (usually one month in advance).
- Material Fee: Some centres charge an annual material fee of $50-$100 to cover resources and learning materials used throughout the year.
These initial fees secure your child’s place at the centre and contribute to administrative costs associated with enrolment processing.
Monthly Fees
The core recurring cost is the monthly fee, which varies significantly depending on the centre location:
- School-Based Centres: Generally more affordable, ranging from $260 to $350 per month (before GST). These centres are located within primary school premises.
- Community-Based Centres: Typically range from $320 to $420 per month (before GST). These centres are situated in community spaces, HDB estates, or commercial buildings.
The monthly fees cover the core programme hours on school days. Parents should note that fees are charged throughout the year, including school holidays, though the service provided during holidays follows a different schedule and may include special programmes.
Nascans typically offers a small discount (usually around 5-10%) for siblings enrolled at the same centre, which can provide some relief for families with multiple children requiring student care services.
Holiday Programme Fees
During school holidays, Nascans operates special holiday programmes that often include:
- Educational workshops
- Field trips and excursions
- Special interest activities
- Extended care hours
These holiday programmes may incur additional costs beyond the regular monthly fees:
- Additional Holiday Programme Fee: $15-$30 per day depending on the activities scheduled
- Excursion Costs: $20-$50 per trip depending on the destination and activities
Parents have the flexibility to register their children for specific days rather than the entire holiday period, allowing for cost management while accommodating family vacation plans.
Additional Charges
Beyond the core fees, parents should be aware of potential additional charges:
- Late Pick-up Fee: $10-$15 for every 15-minute block past closing time
- Ad-hoc Attendance: $25-$35 per day for occasional care needs outside regular enrollment
- Meals: Some centres provide meals at an additional cost of $80-$120 per month
- Transportation: For community-based centres, transportation services between school and the centre may be available at $150-$200 per month
These additional services provide flexibility for parents with varying needs but should be factored into the overall budget when considering Nascans as your student care provider.
Subsidies and Financial Assistance
To make student care more accessible for Singapore families, various subsidies and financial assistance schemes are available that can significantly reduce Nascans’ fees.
Student Care Fee Assistance Scheme (SCFA)
The Student Care Fee Assistance (SCFA) scheme is administered by the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) and provides fee subsidies for families who meet specific income criteria:
- Per Capita Income (PCI) below $1,000: Eligible for subsidies ranging from $30 to $290 per month
- PCI between $1,001-$2,000: Eligible for reduced subsidies based on a sliding scale
The PCI is calculated by dividing the total gross monthly household income by the number of family members. Families with multiple children, single parents, or those facing financial hardships may receive additional consideration.
To apply for SCFA, parents need to submit an application through their chosen Nascans centre, providing necessary documentation including income statements and employment details. The processing time typically takes 2-4 weeks.
Other Financial Support Options
Beyond SCFA, parents may explore additional avenues for financial support:
- ComCare Assistance: Families facing financial difficulties can approach Social Service Offices for ComCare assistance, which may cover various needs including student care fees.
- School-Based Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS): Some schools offer additional support for student care fees as part of their financial assistance programmes.
- Flexible Payment Plans: Nascans may offer instalment plans for families experiencing temporary financial constraints.
Parents are encouraged to discuss their financial situation with Nascans centre managers, who can provide guidance on available support options and application procedures.
Nascans Student Care Locations
Nascans operates an extensive network of centres throughout Singapore, making their services accessible to families in various neighbourhoods. The location type can influence both convenience and cost.
School-Based Centres
School-based Nascans centres operate within primary school premises, offering several advantages:
- Seamless Transitions: Children move directly from classrooms to student care within the same compound
- Familiar Environment: Students remain in a familiar setting throughout the day
- Lower Costs: Generally more affordable than community-based options
- School Alignment: Closer coordination with school teachers and programmes
Nascans operates in numerous primary schools across Singapore, including those in Punggol, Sengkang, Woodlands, Yishun, Tampines, Pasir Ris, and other neighbourhoods. Priority for school-based centres is typically given to students enrolled in that particular school.
Parents interested in finding a student care center near MRT stations should explore Skoolopedia’s comprehensive directory to locate the most convenient Nascans centres for their commuting routes.
Community-Based Centres
Community-based Nascans centres operate in HDB void decks, commercial buildings, or community spaces, offering different advantages:
- Accessibility: Often located near residential areas and transport hubs
- Diverse Enrollment: Accepts children from multiple schools
- Extended Hours: May offer more flexible operating hours
- Additional Facilities: Some community centres feature enhanced facilities
While community-based centres typically charge higher fees, they provide greater flexibility for families living in neighbourhoods without school-based options or those preferring a location closer to their home or workplace.
Nascans Student Care Services and Programmes
Understanding what services are included in Nascans’ fees helps parents evaluate the value proposition. Their comprehensive programme includes:
- Academic Support: Supervised homework completion, revision assistance, and exam preparation support aligned with MOE curriculum.
- Character Development: Activities designed to build confidence, resilience, responsibility, and positive social skills.
- Enrichment Programmes: Regular sessions focusing on STEM, language arts, creative thinking, and problem-solving.
- Physical Activities: Indoor and outdoor games designed to promote physical fitness and coordination.
- Healthy Meals: Nutritionally balanced meals and snacks (where meal options are provided).
Nascans centres typically operate on a structured daily schedule that includes:
- 7:00 AM – 7:30 AM: Before-school care (for early arrivals)
- 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Arrival and lunch
- 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Supervised homework and academic guidance
- 4:00 PM – 4:30 PM: Snack break
- 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM: Enrichment activities and programmes
- 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM: Free play and pick-up time
For parents researching various enrichment options near MRT stations, Skoolopedia’s directory can help identify additional learning opportunities that complement Nascans’ programmes.
Comparing Nascans with Other Student Care Providers
When evaluating Nascans against other student care options, parents should consider several factors beyond just fees:
- Programme Quality: Nascans offers a structured curriculum with academic support and enrichment activities. Some other providers may have different programme emphases or specializations.
- Staff Qualifications: Nascans employs trained educators with experience in childhood education. Parents should compare staff-to-student ratios and qualification requirements across providers.
- Facilities: Centre facilities vary widely, with some offering dedicated study areas, activity rooms, outdoor spaces, or computer facilities. Location visits are recommended for comparison.
- Operating Hours: Nascans’ operating hours are fairly standard, but some providers may offer extended hours that better suit specific work schedules.
- Fee Structure: While Nascans’ fees are competitive, other providers may offer different fee models, inclusion of meals, or transportation services that affect overall value.
For a comprehensive comparison of preschools near MRT stations that may offer student care services, Skoolopedia provides detailed listings that help parents evaluate their options based on location, services, and fees.
How to Register for Nascans Student Care
The registration process for Nascans Student Care centres typically involves these steps:
- Initial Inquiry: Contact your preferred centre directly or through the Nascans website to check for vacancies.
- Centre Visit: Schedule a visit to tour the facilities and discuss your child’s specific needs.
- Registration Form: Complete and submit the registration form along with supporting documents (child’s birth certificate, parent’s NRIC, etc.).
- Registration Fee Payment: Pay the non-refundable registration fee to secure your child’s place.
- Deposit Payment: Submit the refundable deposit (typically one month’s fee).
- SCFA Application: If applicable, complete the Student Care Fee Assistance application with the centre’s assistance.
- Orientation: Attend an orientation session with your child before their first day.
It’s advisable to register well in advance, as popular centres often have waiting lists, especially for school-based locations. Priority is typically given to children with greater care needs, such as those with both parents working full-time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Nascans fees include meals?
Meal provisions vary by centre. Some centres include snacks but charge separately for lunch, while others offer comprehensive meal plans at additional cost. Check with your specific centre for their meal options and associated fees.
Are Nascans fees payable during school holidays?
Yes, monthly fees are charged throughout the year, including school holidays. This ensures the centre can maintain operations and staff employment year-round. However, holiday programmes often offer special activities that justify the continued fees.
What is the typical teacher-to-student ratio at Nascans?
Nascans maintains a ratio of approximately 1:20 to 1:25, depending on the centre and the children’s ages. This ensures adequate supervision while allowing for personal attention to each child’s needs.
Can I claim Child Care Leave for my child’s attendance at Nascans?
Yes, student care services like Nascans qualify under government policies for parents to claim their statutory child care leave entitlements. This provides working parents with the flexibility to care for their children during illness or school holidays.
Does Nascans provide transportation between school and the centre?
For community-based centres, transportation services may be available at additional cost. School-based centres don’t require transportation as they operate within the school premises. Check with your specific centre for transportation options and fees.
How far in advance must I provide notice for withdrawal?
Typically, Nascans requires one calendar month’s written notice for withdrawal. Failure to provide sufficient notice may result in forfeiture of the deposit.
For more information about student care options across Singapore, visit Skoolopedia’s membership page to access exclusive resources and parent reviews.
Conclusion
Choosing the right student care provider is a significant decision that impacts both your child’s development and your family’s daily routine. Nascans Student Care offers a comprehensive solution with its island-wide network of centres, structured programmes, and competitive fee structure.
When considering Nascans, remember to factor in all aspects of their fee structure—from registration and monthly fees to potential additional charges for holiday programmes, meals, or transportation. Explore available subsidies such as the Student Care Fee Assistance scheme to maximize affordability.
Beyond fees, evaluate the quality of programmes, convenience of locations, staff qualifications, and alignment with your child’s specific needs. Visiting centres and speaking directly with staff members can provide valuable insights beyond what’s available on paper.
Every child has unique needs, and the ideal student care arrangement should support both academic progress and personal development while providing peace of mind for working parents. By understanding Nascans’ complete fee structure and service offerings, you’re better equipped to make an informed decision that serves your child’s best interests and fits your family’s budget.
Looking for the perfect student care centre near you? Explore Skoolopedia’s comprehensive directory of student care centres, preschools, and enrichment programmes across Singapore. Our detailed listings include parent reviews, fee comparisons, and proximity to MRT stations to help you make the best choice for your child.
Don’t forget to check out the Parents’ Choice Awards to discover top-rated educational facilities recommended by other Singapore parents!
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