Choosing the right student care centre for your primary school child involves balancing quality, convenience, and affordability—three factors that weigh heavily on every Singapore parent’s mind. Out of Box Academy has established itself as a premium student care provider across multiple locations in Singapore, but understanding their fee structure and what you’re actually paying for can help you make an informed decision about whether it’s the right fit for your family.

This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about Out of Box Academy’s student care fees, from monthly rates and registration costs to the programmes, meals, and enrichment activities included in their packages. Whether you’re comparing student care options for the first time or considering a switch from your current provider, you’ll find detailed pricing information, value comparisons, and practical insights to help you navigate the enrolment process with confidence.

We’ve gathered the latest fee information, location details, and programme specifics to give you a complete picture of what Out of Box Academy offers and how it stacks up against other student care centres across Singapore.

What is Out of Box Academy?

Out of Box Academy is a well-established student care provider operating multiple centres across Singapore, with a focus on delivering holistic after-school care that goes beyond basic supervision. Founded with the philosophy that student care should nurture both academic excellence and character development, the academy has built a reputation for small class sizes, qualified educators, and structured programmes that keep children engaged during after-school hours.

The academy caters primarily to Primary 1 through Primary 6 students, offering pick-up services from nearby primary schools, homework supervision, enrichment activities, and nutritious meals in a safe, stimulating environment. What sets Out of Box Academy apart from many traditional student care centres is their emphasis on experiential learning—children don’t just complete homework and wait for parents to collect them; they participate in hands-on projects, character-building activities, and age-appropriate enrichment programmes designed to develop critical thinking and social skills.

With centres strategically located in residential areas and near popular primary schools, Out of Box Academy positions itself as a premium option for parents who want more than custodial care. Their educators hold relevant qualifications in early childhood or primary education, and the curriculum framework aligns with Singapore’s educational values while incorporating creative teaching methodologies that make after-school hours productive and enjoyable.

Student Care Fee Structure at Out of Box Academy

Understanding the complete fee structure at Out of Box Academy requires looking at both regular monthly fees and one-time registration costs. While exact pricing can vary slightly between centres and may be updated periodically, the following breakdown represents the typical fee range you can expect when enrolling your child.

Monthly Student Care Fees

Out of Box Academy’s monthly fees generally fall within the premium student care category in Singapore, reflecting their enhanced programme offerings and smaller teacher-to-student ratios. The standard monthly fee structure includes:

• Full-day care (school holidays): Approximately $800 to $950 per month, depending on location and specific programme options
• Regular term-time care: Typically ranges from $750 to $900 per month, covering after-school hours on regular school days
• Half-day options: Some centres offer flexible half-day arrangements at reduced rates, usually 60-70% of the full monthly fee
• Sibling discounts: Many Out of Box Academy locations provide 5-10% discounts for families enrolling multiple children

These monthly fees are generally due on the first of each month and cover the core student care services including meals, homework supervision, and standard enrichment activities. Parents should note that fees are typically charged for 12 months of the year, including the December school holidays, though some centres may offer pro-rated arrangements for mid-year enrollments.

Registration and One-Time Fees

Beyond the monthly recurring fees, parents should budget for several one-time or annual costs when first enrolling at Out of Box Academy:

• Registration fee: One-time administrative fee of $100 to $150 upon enrolment
• Deposit: Refundable deposit equivalent to one month’s fees, returned upon withdrawal with proper notice
• Materials fee: Annual fee of $50 to $100 for learning materials, activity supplies, and resources
• Uniform/T-shirt: Optional centre t-shirts or identification items, typically $15 to $25 per piece

When budgeting for your child’s first year at Out of Box Academy, expect initial costs (registration plus first month’s fee plus deposit) to total approximately $1,600 to $2,000, followed by the standard monthly fees for subsequent months. These upfront costs are comparable to other premium student care providers and reflect the quality of facilities and programmes offered.

What’s Included in the Student Care Fees?

One of the most common questions parents ask is whether Out of Box Academy’s fees represent good value compared to more affordable student care options. The answer lies in understanding exactly what’s included in the monthly package, as the comprehensive nature of their services often justifies the premium pricing.

Core Services and Daily Operations

The standard monthly fee at Out of Box Academy covers a robust set of daily services that form the foundation of their student care programme:

• School transportation: Pick-up service from designated primary schools within the catchment area, with safe, supervised transport back to the centre
• Lunch and snacks: Nutritious lunch (during school holidays), afternoon snacks, and sometimes light tea, prepared with attention to balanced nutrition and dietary requirements
• Homework supervision: Dedicated homework time with qualified teachers available to guide students through assignments, check work, and provide academic support
• Activity planning: Structured daily activities including games, projects, and recreational time to keep children engaged and active
• Character development: Values-based programmes focusing on social-emotional learning, good habits, and positive behavior

Unlike basic custodial care where children simply do homework and play freely until pick-up time, Out of Box Academy structures the afternoon hours into productive blocks that balance academic support with creative exploration and physical activity. This structured approach appeals particularly to working parents who want assurance that their children’s after-school hours contribute meaningfully to their overall development.

Enrichment and Additional Programmes

A significant component of Out of Box Academy’s value proposition comes from their enrichment programmes, many of which are included in the standard monthly fee rather than charged as expensive add-ons. These typically include:

• Literacy programmes: Reading activities, library time, and language enrichment to support English and sometimes Mother Tongue development
• STEM activities: Hands-on science experiments, basic coding or robotics exposure, and mathematical problem-solving challenges
• Arts and crafts: Regular creative sessions including drawing, painting, and craft projects that develop fine motor skills and creativity
• Physical education: Active games, sports activities, and movement sessions to ensure children get adequate physical activity
• Life skills: Age-appropriate lessons in responsibility, time management, organization, and social interaction

While some premium enrichment activities (such as specialized classes in music, advanced coding, or exam preparation) may incur additional fees, the breadth of activities included in the base package distinguishes Out of Box Academy from more basic student care providers. Parents looking for enrichment centres near their location may find that Out of Box Academy effectively combines student care with enrichment in one convenient package, potentially saving both time and money compared to engaging separate providers.

Out of Box Academy Locations and Accessibility

Out of Box Academy operates multiple centres across Singapore, each serving primary schools within their respective catchment areas. The strategic placement of these centres makes them particularly convenient for families living or working in these neighborhoods, though exact pick-up school lists may vary by centre.

Currently, Out of Box Academy has established centres in several residential areas including locations in the East, West, and Central regions of Singapore. Each centre is typically within walking distance or a short drive from several primary schools, and the academy provides scheduled pick-up services from partner schools to ensure safe, timely collection after dismissal.

When considering Out of Box Academy, parents should verify which centre serves their child’s primary school and confirm pick-up arrangements during the registration process. The convenience of direct school pick-up cannot be overstated—it eliminates the logistical challenge of coordinating between school dismissal and student care arrival, providing peace of mind for working parents who cannot personally manage the transition.

For parents exploring student care options based on location, Skoolopedia offers a comprehensive directory of student care centres organized by MRT stations, making it easy to compare Out of Box Academy locations with other providers in your area. Accessibility via public transport is an important consideration for parents who may need to collect children directly from the centre after work.

Registration Process and Requirements

Securing a place at Out of Box Academy typically requires advance planning, particularly for popular centres with limited vacancies. Understanding the registration timeline and requirements helps parents navigate the enrolment process smoothly and secure their preferred start date.

Step-by-Step Enrolment Process

1. Initial inquiry and centre visit – Begin by contacting your preferred Out of Box Academy location to inquire about availability for your child’s grade level. Most centres encourage parents to schedule a visit to tour the facilities, meet the teachers, and observe the environment during operating hours. This visit provides invaluable insights into whether the centre’s culture and approach align with your family’s values and your child’s personality.

2. Application submission – Once you’ve decided to proceed, complete the registration form provided by the centre. This typically requires basic information about your child, emergency contacts, medical conditions or allergies, dietary restrictions, and your preferred pick-up school. Some centres accept online applications while others require physical forms.

3. Document preparation – Gather necessary documents including your child’s birth certificate, immunization records, recent photograph, and parents’ identification. If applying for subsidies (discussed in the next section), additional income documentation may be required.

4. Payment of registration fees and deposit – Upon acceptance, you’ll need to pay the registration fee and security deposit to secure your child’s place. Some centres require first month’s fees upfront as well. Payment methods typically include bank transfer, GIRO setup for monthly recurring fees, or cheque.

5. Orientation and trial days – Many Out of Box Academy centres offer orientation sessions for new students, sometimes including trial days where your child can experience the programme before official enrolment. This transition period helps children (especially younger Primary 1 students) adjust to the new environment and routines.

Waitlist and Vacancy Management

Popular Out of Box Academy centres, particularly those serving highly sought-after primary schools, often maintain waitlists during peak enrolment periods. If your preferred centre has no immediate vacancies, ask to be placed on the waitlist and inquire about the typical wait time for your child’s grade level. Primary 1 places tend to fill quickly as families plan ahead for their children’s transition to primary school, so parents of K2 students should consider registering several months in advance.

As an alternative, explore whether other Out of Box Academy locations or comparable student care centres in your area have availability. The Skoolopedia platform allows you to filter options by location, check current vacancy status, and compare programmes side-by-side, streamlining your search when flexibility on specific centres is possible.

Comparing Value: Out of Box Academy vs Other Student Care Centres

With monthly student care fees in Singapore ranging from as low as $250 at subsidized or basic centres to upwards of $1,000 at premium providers, understanding where Out of Box Academy sits on this spectrum—and what justifies their pricing—helps parents make value-based decisions rather than purely cost-based ones.

Out of Box Academy’s fees typically fall in the upper-middle to premium range of Singapore’s student care market. To put this in perspective, school-based student care centres often charge $250-$400 per month but may offer more basic programmes with larger group sizes and limited enrichment. Mid-range private centres typically charge $500-$700 monthly, while premium providers with extensive facilities and specialized programmes may exceed $900-$1,000 monthly.

What You’re Paying For: Value Assessment

When evaluating whether Out of Box Academy’s fees represent good value for your family, consider these distinguishing factors:

• Teacher-to-student ratio: Smaller group sizes mean more individualized attention during homework supervision and activities, which can significantly impact your child’s learning outcomes and behavior management
• Educator qualifications: Centres employing qualified teachers with relevant educational backgrounds typically charge higher fees but deliver more effective academic support
• Enrichment breadth: The inclusion of STEM, arts, and character development programmes in the base fee can represent significant savings compared to paying separately for multiple enrichment classes
• Meal quality: Nutritious, well-balanced meals prepared fresh versus simple, outsourced catering makes a meaningful difference in children’s health and energy levels
• Facilities and resources: Purpose-built learning spaces, adequate library resources, educational materials, and recreational equipment contribute to a more stimulating environment

For many parents, Out of Box Academy’s comprehensive approach delivers value that justifies the premium over basic student care options, particularly when compared to the combined cost of basic student care plus separate enrichment classes. However, families with tight budget constraints or children who thrive in larger, less structured environments may find equal satisfaction with more affordable alternatives.

To explore the full range of student care options and compare fees, programmes, and parent reviews across multiple providers, visit the Skoolopedia student care directory, where you can filter by location, price range, and specific programme features to find the best match for your family’s needs and budget.

Financial Assistance and Subsidies

Student care fees can represent a significant portion of a family’s monthly budget, particularly in dual-income households where after-school care is essential. Fortunately, the Singapore government provides financial assistance through the Student Care Fee Assistance (SCFA) scheme to help eligible families afford quality student care services.

The SCFA provides monthly subsidies ranging from $95 to $160 per child, depending on household income and other eligibility criteria. Families with monthly household income of $4,000 or below (or per capita income of $1,000 or below) qualify for the maximum subsidy tier, while those with household income between $4,001 and $12,000 (or per capita income between $1,001 and $3,000) qualify for lower subsidy tiers.

Applying for SCFA at Out of Box Academy

To benefit from SCFA subsidies when enrolling at Out of Box Academy, you’ll need to apply through the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF). The application process involves:

1. Checking eligibility: Verify that your household income falls within qualifying ranges and that your child attends a government or government-aided school
2. Gathering income documents: Prepare payslips, tax assessments, or other proof of household income for all working family members
3. Submitting application: Complete the SCFA application form through the MSF website or at Social Service Offices
4. Awaiting approval: Processing typically takes 2-4 weeks; approved subsidies are backdated to the application month
5. Centre coordination: Once approved, inform Out of Box Academy of your subsidy approval so they can deduct the subsidy amount from your monthly fees

It’s important to note that SCFA subsidies are applied directly to reduce your out-of-pocket monthly student care fees, making premium centres like Out of Box Academy more accessible to middle-income families. Even with subsidies, you’ll still be responsible for the remaining balance, so calculate the net monthly cost after subsidies when budgeting for student care expenses.

Beyond government subsidies, some employers offer childcare or education benefits that may be applicable to student care fees. Check with your HR department about any available flexible spending accounts, education reimbursements, or other benefits that could offset student care costs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fees and Enrolment

Can I pay fees monthly or must I commit to a full year?

Out of Box Academy typically requires monthly fee payments, but enrolment is generally on a full-year basis with fees charged for 12 months including school holidays. Most centres require at least one month’s notice for withdrawal, and the security deposit helps cover this notice period. Some centres may accept mid-year enrolments with pro-rated fees depending on availability.

Are there additional charges for holiday programmes?

Standard school holiday care is typically included in your monthly fees at Out of Box Academy, meaning you continue paying the regular monthly rate during March, June, September, and December holidays. However, special holiday camps with external excursions, specialized instructors, or premium activities may incur supplementary charges ranging from $50 to $200 per week depending on the programme.

What happens if my child is absent for extended periods?

Monthly fees at Out of Box Academy are generally not pro-rated for short absences due to illness or family holidays, as the centre holds your child’s place and incurs fixed operating costs. However, for extended absences exceeding one month due to special circumstances (overseas relocation, medical leave, etc.), some centres may offer flexible arrangements—contact your centre administrator to discuss options.

Do fees increase annually?

Like most student care providers, Out of Box Academy may implement modest annual fee increases (typically 3-8%) to account for rising operational costs including staff salaries, rental, and food costs. Existing families are usually given advance notice of any fee adjustments, typically communicated in the fourth quarter for implementation in the following year.

Can I switch my child between Out of Box Academy locations?

If you relocate or your circumstances change, Out of Box Academy may accommodate transfers between their centres subject to vacancy availability at your desired location. There is typically no additional registration fee for inter-centre transfers, but you’ll need to coordinate with both centre administrators and ensure the new location serves your child’s primary school for pick-up arrangements.

Understanding Out of Box Academy’s student care fee structure empowers you to make an informed decision about whether this premium provider aligns with your family’s educational priorities and budget. While their fees position them in the upper tier of Singapore’s student care market, the comprehensive nature of their programmes—encompassing qualified educators, enrichment activities, nutritious meals, and structured learning support—delivers tangible value that many parents find justifies the investment.

The key to maximizing value lies in fully utilizing the included programmes and leveraging available subsidies to reduce your net out-of-pocket costs. With government SCFA assistance, even premium student care becomes accessible to middle-income families, bridging the gap between affordability and quality.

As you evaluate Out of Box Academy alongside other options, remember that the right student care centre should balance three critical elements: quality programmes that support your child’s development, convenient logistics that fit your family’s schedule, and fees that work within your budget. Every family weighs these factors differently based on their unique circumstances, values, and children’s needs.

Take time to visit Out of Box Academy centres in your area, speak with current parents if possible, and compare their offerings with other providers using comprehensive resources like Skoolopedia’s student care directory. The effort invested in thorough research pays dividends in finding a student care environment where your child will thrive during these formative primary school years.