Choosing the right preschool for your child ranks among the most important decisions you’ll make as a parent in Singapore. With over 20 locations island-wide, Star Learners has established itself as one of Singapore’s prominent preschool operators, but is it the right fit for your family? Whether you’re looking for a preschool near MRT stations for convenience or seeking specific curriculum approaches, understanding what each centre offers helps you make an informed choice.

This comprehensive review covers everything you need to know about Star Learners in 2025, from their educational philosophy and curriculum structure to detailed information about each location, fees, and what current parents are experiencing. We’ve organized this guide to help you quickly find centres in your preferred neighbourhood, compare offerings, and determine whether Star Learners aligns with your child’s learning needs and your family’s practical requirements.

About Star Learners

Star Learners operates as part of the NTUC First Campus cooperative family, Singapore’s largest early childhood education provider. Established to provide quality, affordable childcare and preschool education, Star Learners centres are designed to serve working families with extended operating hours and comprehensive programmes that bridge care and learning.

What distinguishes Star Learners from other preschool brands is their focus on creating neighbourhood learning communities. Each centre typically offers infant care (from 2 months), childcare (18 months to 4 years), and kindergarten programmes (4 to 6 years), making it possible for families to maintain continuity as their children grow. The centres emphasize bilingual learning, with both English and Mandarin Chinese integrated throughout the day, preparing children for Singapore’s bilingual education system.

Most Star Learners centres are housed in HDB void decks or community spaces, keeping them accessible and embedded within residential neighbourhoods. This positioning reflects their commitment to serving families where they live, rather than requiring long commutes. For parents planning their search, you can explore options through Skoolopedia’s searchable directory, which lets you filter preschools by MRT station or neighbourhood.

Curriculum & Learning Approach

Star Learners implements a **play-based, inquiry-driven curriculum** that aligns with Singapore’s Early Years Development Framework and the Ministry of Education’s Kindergarten Curriculum Framework (KCF). The approach balances structured learning with child-initiated exploration, recognizing that young children learn most effectively through hands-on experiences and meaningful interactions.

The curriculum is organized around several key pillars. First, **bilingualism** is woven throughout daily routines, with educators using both English and Mandarin in natural contexts rather than treating them as separate subjects. This immersive approach helps children develop conversational fluency alongside academic vocabulary. Second, the programme emphasizes **social-emotional learning**, with dedicated time for children to practice conflict resolution, develop empathy, and build self-regulation skills that form the foundation for lifelong learning.

Third, Star Learners incorporates **project-based investigations** where children explore topics that interest them over extended periods. A class might spend several weeks investigating how plants grow, conducting experiments, documenting observations, and creating representations of their learning. This approach develops critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to sustain attention on meaningful work.

Age-Appropriate Programmes

Star Learners structures its offerings to match developmental stages:

• Infant Care (2-17 months): Focus on responsive caregiving, sensory exploration, and establishing secure attachments with consistent caregivers
• Playgroup (18 months-3 years): Emphasis on language development, fine and gross motor skills, and social interaction through play
• Nursery & Kindergarten (3-6 years): More structured learning with literacy and numeracy readiness, scientific inquiry, and preparation for primary school

The transition between levels happens within the same centre in most cases, providing continuity for both children and parents. Educators maintain detailed portfolios documenting each child’s progress, which parents can review during regular conferences.

Complete List of Star Learners Locations

Star Learners maintains centres across Singapore’s major residential areas. The network continues to expand based on community need and available spaces. Below is a comprehensive breakdown by region to help you identify centres near your home or workplace. For the most current vacancy information and to compare with other options in each area, check preschools near your preferred MRT station.

Central Region Centres

The central region centres serve families in mature estates and newer developments close to the city core. These locations often have convenient public transport access:

• Star Learners @ Stirling: Located near Queenstown MRT, serving the Stirling Road/Dawson estate
• Star Learners @ Tiong Bahru: In the heart of Tiong Bahru estate, accessible from Tiong Bahru MRT
• Star Learners @ Lengkok Bahru: Serving families in the Redhill and Bukit Merah area
• Star Learners @ Kim Tian: Another Tiong Bahru area option with full infant care to kindergarten programmes

North Region Centres

The northern centres serve some of Singapore’s largest residential estates, with several locations offering capacity for growing communities:

• Star Learners @ Woodlands: Multiple blocks including Woodlands Street 13 and Woodlands Drive centres
• Star Learners @ Yishun: Several centres across Yishun Ring Road and Yishun Avenue areas
• Star Learners @ Sembawang: Serving families in Sembawang and Canberra estates
• Star Learners @ Admiralty: Near Admiralty MRT, convenient for families in the northwestern region
• Star Learners @ Marsiling: Serving the Marsiling and Woodgrove areas

East Region Centres

Eastern centres cater to both established estates and newer developments in areas like Punggol and Pasir Ris:

• Star Learners @ Punggol: Multiple centres including Punggol Field and Punggol Drive locations
• Star Learners @ Sengkang: Several centres across Sengkang East and West
• Star Learners @ Hougang: Serving Hougang Avenue and Hougang Central areas
• Star Learners @ Pasir Ris: Located in Pasir Ris Drive, near Pasir Ris MRT
• Star Learners @ Tampines: Centres in Tampines Street and Avenue areas

West Region Centres

Western centres serve communities from Jurong to Clementi and everywhere between:

• Star Learners @ Jurong West: Multiple centres including Jurong West Street 52 and other blocks
• Star Learners @ Bukit Batok: Serving Bukit Batok West and surrounding areas
• Star Learners @ Choa Chu Kang: Located in Choa Chu Kang Avenue and nearby blocks
• Star Learners @ Clementi: Serving Clementi Avenue estates

Each location maintains its own operating hours, typically from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM on weekdays to accommodate working parents’ schedules. Specific centre addresses, contact details, and current vacancy status change regularly, so it’s worth checking Skoolopedia’s updated listings or contacting centres directly when you’re ready to visit.

Fees & Subsidy Information

Understanding the actual cost of preschool requires looking at both published fees and the government subsidies available to most Singaporean families. Star Learners fees vary slightly by location and programme level, but generally fall within the **affordable to mid-range category** compared to Singapore’s preschool landscape.

As of 2025, full-day childcare fees before subsidies typically range from $1,100 to $1,400 per month for Singapore Citizens, depending on the programme level and specific centre. Permanent Residents can expect fees in a similar range but with different subsidy structures. These published rates represent the starting point before applying any government support schemes.

Available Subsidies

Most families don’t pay the full published fees due to Singapore’s comprehensive childcare subsidy framework:

• Basic Subsidy: All Singapore Citizen children receive a basic subsidy, with the amount increasing based on household income. Lower-income families receive more substantial support.
• Additional Subsidy: Working mothers can access additional subsidy amounts that further reduce monthly fees, with maximum support going to lower and middle-income working families.
• Kindergarten Fee Assistance Scheme (KiFAS): Provides additional support for kindergarten-aged children from lower-income families.

After all applicable subsidies, some families pay as little as $150-$300 per month for full-day childcare and kindergarten programmes. The exact amount depends on your household income, employment status, and citizenship status. Star Learners centres can provide personalized fee calculations during your centre tour or enrollment inquiry.

Additional costs to consider include registration fees (typically one-time charges of $100-$150), deposits, and optional enrichment programmes. Most centres include meals and basic learning materials in the monthly fee, but field trips or special events may carry additional charges.

Enrollment Process & Vacancies

Securing a spot at your preferred Star Learners centre requires understanding both the application timeline and how vacancies are managed. Unlike primary school registration with its strict phases and priority systems, preschool enrollment operates on a first-come, first-served basis with some considerations for siblings and existing families.

The process typically follows these steps. First, **identify your preferred centres** based on location, available programmes, and your child’s age. Many parents benefit from visiting 2-3 centres to compare facilities and meet educators before making a decision. You can schedule tours by contacting centres directly or through their registration forms.

During your **centre tour**, you’ll see the classrooms, outdoor play areas, and learning resources while getting a feel for the environment. This is your opportunity to ask specific questions about class sizes, educator qualifications, daily schedules, and curriculum implementation. Pay attention to how educators interact with children and the overall atmosphere of the centre.

If you decide to proceed, you’ll complete a **registration application** with required documents including your child’s birth certificate, immunization records, and household income documentation (for subsidy applications). Most centres require a registration fee at this stage. Because popular centres can have waiting lists, many parents register several months before they need care, sometimes even before the child is born for infant care places.

Managing Waiting Lists

Vacancy availability fluctuates throughout the year as families relocate or children age out of programmes. Centres in high-demand neighbourhoods may have waiting lists for specific age groups, particularly for infant care and Nursery 1 (the first kindergarten year). If your preferred centre doesn’t have immediate availability, ask about their waiting list procedures and average wait times.

Some practical strategies include being flexible with start dates if possible, considering centres slightly further from home that might have immediate vacancies, or exploring whether student care centres near MRT stations might serve as alternatives for older preschoolers. The Skoolopedia membership provides access to updated vacancy information and expert guidance for navigating waitlists and alternative options.

What Parents Are Saying

Parent experiences with Star Learners centres show consistent themes across locations, though individual centre quality can vary based on leadership and specific educator teams. The most frequently mentioned strengths include **caring and dedicated teachers** who build genuine relationships with children and families. Many parents appreciate receiving regular updates through photos, observations, and communication books that help them stay connected to their child’s day.

The **affordability after subsidies** ranks as a major advantage, making quality early childhood education accessible to middle-income families who might struggle with higher-priced options. Parents also value the **convenience of neighbourhood locations** and extended operating hours that accommodate full-time working schedules without requiring lengthy commutes or after-school arrangements.

The **bilingual environment** receives positive feedback from families wanting their children to develop Mandarin skills naturally. Parents note that children become comfortable switching between languages and develop better pronunciation than they might achieve through evening enrichment classes alone.

Areas for Consideration

Some parents mention that **facilities vary considerably** between centres. Older centres housed in HDB void decks may have more limited outdoor space and less modern equipment compared to newer purpose-built centres. If facility quality matters significantly to your family, visiting the specific centre rather than assuming consistency across all Star Learners locations becomes essential.

**Class sizes** can be larger than at boutique preschools, typically ranging from 15-20 children per class depending on age group. While ratios meet regulatory requirements, families seeking very small class environments might prefer alternatives. That said, most parents find that skilled educators manage larger groups effectively, and children benefit from the social opportunities.

A few parents note that the curriculum, while solid, may feel **less specialized** than programmes at preschools with very specific pedagogical approaches like Reggio Emilia, Montessori, or Waldorf. Star Learners takes a comprehensive, balanced approach that incorporates elements from various philosophies rather than adhering strictly to one method. This suits many families but might not satisfy parents seeking a particular educational philosophy.

For balanced perspectives incorporating multiple family experiences, the Parents’ Choices Award recognizes centres that consistently demonstrate quality across parent satisfaction, curriculum, and facilities, helping you identify standout options.

Is Star Learners Right for Your Family?

Star Learners represents a strong option for families who prioritize affordability, accessibility, and comprehensive programmes within their neighbourhood. The centres work particularly well for working parents who need extended hours, families who value bilingual education, and those who want to maximize government subsidies while still accessing quality early childhood education.

You might find Star Learners especially suitable if you’re looking for programme continuity from infant care through kindergarten within the same centre. This eliminates the stress of finding new care arrangements every few years and allows your child to build long-term relationships with educators and peers. The familiarity and stability can be particularly beneficial for children who thrive on routine and predictability.

Families should consider alternative options if they’re seeking very specific pedagogical approaches, significantly smaller class sizes, or premium facilities with extensive outdoor learning environments. Similarly, if location within walking distance of your home is negotiable and you’re willing to travel further for specialized programmes, exploring a broader range of options might serve you better.

The decision ultimately comes down to matching your family’s priorities with what each centre delivers. Take advantage of centre tours at multiple locations, ask questions about specific concerns, and trust your observations of how educators interact with children. The right preschool is one where your child will feel safe, engaged, and excited to learn each day, regardless of the brand name on the sign.

Star Learners has built a substantial presence across Singapore by delivering accessible, affordable early childhood education in the neighbourhoods where families live. With over 20 locations offering comprehensive programmes from infant care through kindergarten, they’ve created options for working parents who need quality care without premium price tags or lengthy commutes.

As you evaluate whether Star Learners fits your family’s needs, remember that the specific centre matters as much as the overall brand. Facilities, educator quality, and community culture can vary between locations, making centre visits essential to your decision-making process. Pay attention to how you feel in the space, how educators engage with children, and whether the environment matches your expectations and values.

The preschool search can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Skoolopedia helps Singapore parents compare preschools, access current fee information, check vacancy status, and read experiences from families like yours. Whether you’re exploring Star Learners or considering other options, having reliable, current information makes the process manageable and helps you secure quality early childhood education where and when you need it.