Selecting the right preschool is one of the most significant decisions parents face in their child’s early education journey. With numerous options available across Singapore, making an informed choice requires thorough research and consideration. Mulberry Learning has established itself as a prominent player in Singapore’s early childhood education landscape, known for its unique curriculum approach and multiple locations island-wide.

Founded in Singapore, Mulberry Learning has expanded to operate numerous centres across the island, offering programs for infants, toddlers, nursery, and kindergarten levels. The preschool chain has gained recognition for its innovative teaching methodologies and holistic approach to early childhood development. But what exactly sets Mulberry Learning apart from other preschools in Singapore? And more importantly, would it be the right fit for your child?

This comprehensive review explores all aspects of Mulberry Learning – from its educational philosophy and curriculum to detailed insights about each location’s facilities, programs, and parent experiences. Whether you’re considering your first preschool enrollment or contemplating a switch, this guide aims to provide you with all the information you need to make a confident decision about Mulberry Learning’s suitability for your family’s needs.

Introduction to Mulberry Learning

Mulberry Learning is a premium preschool chain in Singapore that has been awarded the ‘Singapore Prestige Brand Award’ and recognized as Singapore’s first preschool network to be certified by the United States for its ‘Habits of Mind’ framework integration. With a focus on developing not just academic foundations but also character and thinking dispositions, Mulberry Learning positions itself as a forward-thinking institution preparing children for the complexities of the 21st century.

The preschool caters to children aged 2 months to 6 years through various programs including infant care, playgroup, nursery, and kindergarten levels. What distinguishes Mulberry Learning in Singapore’s competitive preschool landscape is its unique blend of established pedagogies including the Reggio Emilia approach, Multiple Intelligences theory, and the integration of ‘Habits of Mind’ – a framework of 16 intelligent behaviors that help children develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Established over a decade ago, Mulberry Learning has expanded significantly, now operating 13 centers strategically located across Singapore’s residential neighborhoods and business districts. This expansion speaks to the growing parent confidence in their educational approach and methodology.

Mulberry Learning Curriculum and Approach

At the core of Mulberry Learning’s educational philosophy is a thoughtfully designed curriculum that combines multiple internationally-recognized pedagogies:

Reggio Emilia Approach: This Italian educational philosophy views children as capable, curious individuals with rights rather than just needs. At Mulberry Learning, this manifests through project-based learning where children’s interests guide exploration. Classrooms feature dedicated ateliers (art studios) and documentation panels showcasing children’s learning journeys.

Habits of Mind: As Singapore’s first preschool certified by the Institute for Habits of Mind (USA), Mulberry Learning integrates 16 intelligent behaviors that successful individuals exhibit when facing problems. These habits include persisting, managing impulsivity, thinking flexibly, and striving for accuracy – all crucial skills for lifelong learning.

Multiple Intelligences Theory: Recognizing that intelligence extends beyond traditional linguistic and logical-mathematical abilities, Mulberry Learning creates opportunities for children to develop across various intelligence domains including musical, bodily-kinesthetic, spatial, interpersonal, intrapersonal, and naturalist intelligences.

The curriculum is additionally enriched with specialized programs:

Literacy Program: A phonics-based approach to reading and writing that incorporates both Singapore and international literacy standards.

Chinese Immersion Program: An intensive Mandarin language acquisition program that employs storytelling, songs, and cultural activities.

STREAM Program: An expanded STEM curriculum that integrates Science, Technology, Reading, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics through hands-on explorations and experiments.

What particularly stands out in Mulberry Learning’s approach is the emphasis on character development alongside academic foundations. Their ‘Character Development Program’ focuses on nurturing values like responsibility, respect, and resilience through daily routines and dedicated activities.

Mulberry Learning Locations in Singapore

Mulberry Learning has strategically established centers across Singapore to serve families in different residential areas. Each location maintains the brand’s educational standards while adapting to the unique characteristics of its neighborhood. Let’s explore the various Mulberry Learning centers by region:

North Singapore Locations

Mulberry Learning @ Woodlands

Located at 11 Woodlands Close, #01-42, Woodlands 11, Singapore 737853, this center serves families in the Woodlands, Marsiling, and Admiralty neighborhoods. The Woodlands location features spacious classrooms, a dedicated outdoor play area, and is conveniently situated near Woodlands MRT station. This center offers infant care through kindergarten programs and maintains smaller class sizes compared to some other locations.

Mulberry Learning @ Choa Chu Kang

Situated at Sunshine Place, 475 Choa Chu Kang Avenue 3, #02-01/07, Singapore 680475, this center is a favorite among families living in Choa Chu Kang, Yew Tee, and Bukit Panjang areas. It features bright, airy classrooms and a specially designed water play area that children particularly enjoy. Parents appreciate its proximity to Choa Chu Kang MRT station, making drop-offs and pick-ups convenient for working families.

Central Singapore Locations

Mulberry Learning @ Cairnhill

As one of Mulberry Learning’s premium locations, the Cairnhill center at 1 Anthony Road, Singapore 229944 serves the expatriate-heavy Orchard and Newton areas. This location features enhanced facilities including a spacious atelier for art exploration and a well-equipped outdoor playground. The center is known for its higher ratio of international students and offers additional language support programs.

Mulberry Learning @ Tanjong Pagar

Catering to working parents in the Central Business District, this center at 1 Cantonment Road, #01-01 to #01-06, Singapore 080001 offers extended hours and is particularly popular for its infant care program. Its convenient location near Tanjong Pagar MRT makes it ideal for parents working in the CBD. The center features more compact but thoughtfully designed learning spaces optimized for the urban environment.

Mulberry Learning @ Shenton Way

Another CBD-focused center, the Shenton Way location at 6A Shenton Way, #03-01/04, Singapore 068815 primarily serves corporate clients and features dedicated corporate partnership programs. This location offers priority placement for children of employees from partner companies and maintains slightly smaller class sizes. Its design emphasizes maximizing natural light within an urban setting.

East Singapore Locations

Mulberry Learning @ Kallang Wave Mall

Located at 1 Stadium Place, #01-09, Kallang Wave Mall, Singapore 397628, this center benefits from its integration within a larger commercial complex. Families appreciate the convenience of combining preschool drop-offs with shopping and dining options. The center features a unique indoor playscape and is popular for its extended weekend enrichment programs open to non-enrolled children.

Mulberry Learning @ Tampines

Serving the eastern residential neighborhoods, the Tampines center at 30 Tampines Avenue 1, Singapore 529687 features one of Mulberry’s largest outdoor play areas. This location is particularly noted for its strong implementation of the Reggio Emilia approach with elaborate documentation panels showcasing children’s project work. Parents in Tampines, Pasir Ris, and Bedok areas choose this center for its spacious facilities and strong community involvement.

West Singapore Locations

Mulberry Learning @ Jurong East

Located at 50 Jurong Gateway Road, #03-20, Singapore 608549, this center serves the Jurong East, Clementi, and surrounding neighborhoods. Conveniently situated near Jurong East MRT interchange station and adjacent to major shopping malls, it offers excellent accessibility. The center is known for its strong STREAM program implementation and features dedicated science exploration zones.

Mulberry Learning @ Bukit Batok

This center at 160 Bukit Batok Street 21, Singapore 650160 features a cozy, community-oriented atmosphere and serves families in the Bukit Batok and Hillview areas. While more compact than some other locations, parents appreciate the tight-knit community feel and high teacher retention rates at this center. It’s particularly known for its strong parent involvement programs and regular family engagement activities.

Each Mulberry Learning location maintains the brand’s core curriculum and quality standards while adapting to its specific neighborhood dynamics and physical space constraints. When selecting a center, parents should consider not just proximity but also the specific facilities, class sizes, and supplementary programs that may vary between locations.

Facilities and Learning Environment

Mulberry Learning centers are designed with careful attention to creating environments that support children’s learning and development. While specific facilities vary by location due to space constraints and building layouts, certain signature elements are consistent across all centers:

Thoughtfully Designed Learning Spaces: Classrooms follow the Reggio Emilia concept of environment as the “third teacher,” featuring neutral color palettes, natural materials, and organized learning centers. Each room typically includes literacy corners, construction areas, dramatic play spaces, and sensory exploration zones.

Dedicated Ateliers: Following Reggio Emilia principles, most Mulberry Learning centers feature dedicated art studios or ateliers equipped with various materials for creative expression. These spaces contain natural and recycled materials, different types of paper, clay, paint, and drawing implements arranged accessibly for children to select independently.

Indoor Gross Motor Areas: Recognizing Singapore’s climate challenges, centers incorporate indoor spaces for physical development with equipment like balance beams, climbing structures, and movement zones. These areas allow children to develop physical skills even during haze periods or inclement weather.

Outdoor Playgrounds: Where space permits, centers feature outdoor play areas with equipment designed for different age groups. These spaces typically include sandpits, water play zones, gardening areas, and climbing structures. The larger centers like Tampines and Woodlands have more extensive outdoor facilities.

Technology Integration: Modern technology is thoughtfully incorporated with interactive panels in kindergarten classrooms, documentation cameras, and age-appropriate educational technology. However, screen time is deliberately limited in favor of hands-on experiences.

Safety Features: All centers prioritize safety with secured entry systems, CCTV monitoring, child-safe furniture, and regular safety inspections. Infant care rooms have additional safety measures including specialized sleeping areas and sanitization protocols.

The learning environments at Mulberry Learning are regularly refreshed to reflect current project themes and children’s interests. Documentation panels displaying children’s work processes (not just final products) are prominent features in hallways and classrooms, making learning visible to parents and visitors.

Programs and Fee Structure

Mulberry Learning offers a range of programs catering to different age groups and scheduling needs. While exact fees may vary slightly between locations and change annually, the following provides a general overview of their program structure and approximate fee ranges:

Infant Care (2-18 months)

Full-day program: S$1,800-S$2,200 per month
Half-day program: S$1,500-S$1,800 per month

The infant care program focuses on nurturing secure attachments, sensory experiences, and developmental milestones. The teacher-to-infant ratio is maintained at 1:3 or better, ensuring personalized care. Programs include baby signing, infant massage, and sensory play experiences.

Playgroup (18 months-2 years)

Full-day program: S$1,600-S$1,900 per month
Half-day program: S$1,300-S$1,600 per month

Playgroup activities emphasize language development, social skills, and physical coordination through guided play experiences. Children begin developing independence skills like self-feeding and participate in simple group activities.

Nursery 1 & 2 (3-4 years)

Full-day program: S$1,500-S$1,800 per month
Half-day program: S$1,200-S$1,500 per month

The nursery program introduces more structured learning experiences while maintaining a play-based approach. Children engage in project work, begin formal phonics and numeracy learning, and participate in specialized programs including Chinese language acquisition.

Kindergarten 1 & 2 (5-6 years)

Full-day program: S$1,400-S$1,700 per month
Half-day program: S$1,100-S$1,400 per month

The kindergarten curriculum prepares children for primary school with a more comprehensive academic component while maintaining Mulberry’s play-based philosophy. Programs include advanced literacy and numeracy skills, science exploration, and cultural studies.

Additional Fees and Considerations:

• One-time registration fee: S$500-S$800
• Deposit: Usually one month’s fees
• Material fees: S$200-S$400 per semester
• Uniform costs: Approximately S$100 for initial set
• Optional enrichment programs: S$25-S$40 per session

Mulberry Learning participates in the government’s subsidy schemes including Basic Subsidy and Additional Subsidy for working parents, which can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Singapore citizens may be eligible for subsidies of up to S$600 for infant care and S$300 for childcare, based on household income criteria.

It’s worth noting that Mulberry Learning offers slightly lower fees for their newer centers during initial operating periods, which may present value opportunities for parents. Additionally, corporate partners may receive preferential rates and priority placement at selected centers, particularly those in the CBD area like Shenton Way and Tanjong Pagar.

Parents should inquire about current promotions, sibling discounts, and referral benefits which can provide additional savings. Mulberry occasionally offers waived registration fees or discounted deposits during enrollment drives.

Parent Testimonials and Reviews

Parent feedback about Mulberry Learning centers reveals consistent themes across locations, though with some variation in specific aspects of the preschool experience. After analyzing reviews and speaking with current and former Mulberry parents, several patterns emerge:

Curriculum Appreciation

Most parents express high satisfaction with Mulberry’s curriculum approach, particularly the Habits of Mind framework. Many note visible improvements in their children’s critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Parents frequently mention their children demonstrating persistence, flexibility in thinking, and questioning strategies at home.

One parent from the Cairnhill center shared: “The way they implement the Habits of Mind has transformed how our daughter approaches challenges. She now talks about ‘persisting’ when something is difficult rather than giving up.”

Teacher Quality and Turnover

Teacher quality receives consistently positive feedback, with parents praising the educators’ professionalism and genuine care for children. However, some centers (particularly the CBD locations) have experienced higher teacher turnover rates, which some parents cite as a concern.

A parent from the Shenton Way center noted: “The teachers are excellent, but we’ve had three different lead teachers in two years, which has been somewhat disruptive for my son.”

Communication and Documentation

Mulberry’s communication with parents receives mixed reviews. While the documentation of children’s learning through photos, portfolios, and learning stories is highly praised, some parents mention inconsistent day-to-day communication depending on individual teachers.

The parent portal and app receive positive feedback for keeping parents connected to their children’s experiences, though some request more real-time updates. One Tampines parent shared: “The monthly documentation panels are incredible – we can really see the depth of their project work, but daily updates can be brief.”

Facilities and Resources

Parents generally express satisfaction with the thoughtfully designed learning environments, though feedback varies by location. The newer centers like Woodlands and Tampines receive higher ratings for their facilities, while some older locations are noted to have space constraints.

A parent from the Jurong East center commented: “The classroom is somewhat compact, but they make excellent use of the space with creative learning centers and regularly refreshed materials.”

Transition to Primary School

Feedback from parents whose children have graduated from Mulberry’s K2 program and entered primary school is largely positive. Many report that their children adjusted well academically and socially to primary school, with particularly strong critical thinking skills and learning dispositions.

One parent whose child transitioned to a local primary school noted: “While some children struggled with the new environment, my son’s experience at Mulberry taught him to be adaptable and approach new situations with confidence.”

Value for Money

Given Mulberry’s premium positioning and corresponding fee structure, parents have varied perspectives on value. Most acknowledge the quality justifies the cost, but some mention that with additional enrichment programs, the total expense can become significant.

As one Woodlands parent summarized: “It’s definitely an investment, but seeing our daughter’s growth in confidence, creativity, and thinking skills makes it worthwhile for our family.”

Across locations, parents particularly value Mulberry’s approach to developing independence and critical thinking, which many cite as key differentiators from other preschools they considered.

Mulberry Learning Admissions Process

Securing a place at Mulberry Learning requires advance planning, especially for infant care and popular locations. Understanding the admissions timeline and process can help parents navigate this important decision:

Application Timeline

For infant care positions, parents are advised to apply as early as 9-12 months before their desired start date, particularly for centers in high-demand areas like Tanjong Pagar and Shenton Way. For playgroup through kindergarten levels, applications should ideally be submitted 3-6 months in advance.

Mulberry Learning operates year-round admissions rather than strict intake periods, allowing children to join when spaces become available. However, the majority of new openings occur in January and mid-year around June/July.

Application Process

The application process typically follows these steps:

1. Initial Inquiry: Parents can submit an interest form through Mulberry’s website or contact centers directly. This is recommended even if expecting parents haven’t confirmed their childcare plans.

2. Center Tour: Scheduled tours provide an opportunity to observe the learning environment, meet with the center principal, and understand the program specifics. Most centers offer both weekday and occasional weekend tour slots.

3. Application Submission: After the tour, parents can submit a formal application which includes family information, child development details, and preferred schedule options.

4. Application Fee: A non-refundable application fee ranging from S$50-S$100 is required to place a child on the waiting list.

5. Waitlist Status: Centers provide approximate waiting periods, though these can change as family circumstances adjust. Priority may be given to siblings of current students and children of corporate partners.

6. Offer and Enrollment: When a space becomes available, parents receive an offer letter and typically have 3-5 days to accept and complete enrollment paperwork.

7. Confirmation: Securing the place requires payment of the registration fee and a deposit equal to one month’s fees.

Preparation for First Day

Mulberry Learning has developed a thoughtful orientation process to ease transition anxiety:

• Pre-enrollment home visits by teachers for infant and playgroup children (at selected centers)
• Staggered entry schedule with gradually increasing hours during the first week
• ‘Comfort item’ policies allowing children to bring transitional objects from home
• Photo books of teachers and environments provided before the first day
• Parent-teacher conferences to establish routines and preferences

Parents report that this gradual transition approach significantly reduces separation anxiety and helps children adjust to the new environment more smoothly.

Comparison with Other Preschools

To provide context for parents evaluating Mulberry Learning against other options, let’s compare key aspects with other established preschool networks in Singapore:

Curriculum Approach

Compared to other premium preschools, Mulberry Learning’s distinctive feature is its integration of the Habits of Mind framework with Reggio Emilia principles. While EtonHouse and Blue House also implement Reggio Emilia approaches, they don’t incorporate the Habits of Mind component. MindChamps offers its own proprietary curriculum with a heavy emphasis on creativity and confidence, while Canadian International School provides IB PYP programs from preschool age.

Mulberry positions itself between the pure play-based approach of schools like Blue House and the more academically-focused programs like those at MindChamps. Their balanced approach appeals to parents seeking both strong character development and academic foundations.

Facilities

In terms of physical environments, Mulberry Learning offers good quality facilities but may not match the expansive spaces of purpose-built campuses like Canadian International School or some EtonHouse locations. However, compared to many PCF centers or smaller independent preschools, Mulberry’s facilities are notably superior.

The thoughtful design of learning environments following Reggio Emilia principles is comparable to what’s offered at Blue House and EtonHouse, with careful attention to aesthetic quality and learning potential.

Fee Structure

Mulberry Learning positions itself in the premium segment but remains more affordable than international preschools. Here’s how the monthly full-day fees compare approximately:

• International preschools (CIS, UWC): S$2,000-S$3,000+
• EtonHouse and Blue House: S$1,800-S$2,400
• Mulberry Learning: S$1,400-S$2,200
• MindChamps: S$1,400-S$2,000
• PCF Sparkletots: S$700-S$1,300

This positioning makes Mulberry an option for families seeking premium education who may find international school fees prohibitive.

Teacher Qualifications

Teacher qualifications at Mulberry Learning generally meet or exceed ECDA requirements, with lead teachers holding diplomas or degrees in early childhood education. This is comparable to other premium preschools, though international preschools may have a higher percentage of teachers with advanced degrees or international certifications.

Mulberry invests significantly in professional development, with teachers receiving training in Habits of Mind and Reggio Emilia approaches, placing them on par with other premium providers in terms of specialized pedagogical knowledge.

Bilingual Exposure

Mulberry’s Chinese immersion program offers daily Mandarin instruction, which is comparable to most Singaporean preschools. However, it may not provide the same depth of immersion as dedicated bilingual programs like those at EtonHouse Zhong Hua or some MindChamps centers. For parents prioritizing genuine bilingual development, more specialized centers might be preferable.

Overall, Mulberry Learning occupies a distinctive position in Singapore’s preschool landscape, balancing premium quality with relative affordability compared to international options, while offering a unique curriculum that emphasizes both thinking dispositions and academic foundations.

For parents aligned with their educational philosophy who seek a balance between holistic development and academic preparation, Mulberry represents a compelling option that compares favorably with alternatives in its price range.

Conclusion: Is Mulberry Learning Right for Your Child?

After conducting a comprehensive review of Mulberry Learning’s curriculum, facilities, programs, and parent experiences across all locations, several key considerations emerge for parents weighing this preschool option against alternatives in Singapore.

Mulberry Learning represents an excellent fit for families who:

Value critical thinking and character development: The distinctive Habits of Mind framework integrated throughout all age levels genuinely sets Mulberry apart in developing thinking dispositions that serve children well beyond their preschool years.

Appreciate a balanced educational approach: Mulberry successfully bridges progressive educational philosophy with practical academic readiness, making it suitable for parents who want neither a purely play-based approach nor a heavily academic program.

Seek consistent quality across locations: For families who may relocate within Singapore, Mulberry’s network of centers maintaining consistent curriculum standards offers continuity in a child’s educational experience.

Prioritize thoughtfully designed learning environments: The implementation of Reggio-inspired spaces creates aesthetically pleasing, educationally rich environments that respect children as capable learners.

However, parents should carefully consider whether Mulberry Learning aligns with their specific priorities and circumstances:

Budget considerations: As a premium provider, the fee structure represents a significant investment, particularly when including additional costs for enrichment programs.

Location-specific variations: While curriculum remains consistent, physical facilities, outdoor spaces, and community feel can vary significantly between locations. Personal tours of specific centers are essential.

Cultural fit: Families seeking either a very traditional academic approach or a completely unstructured play-based program may find Mulberry’s balanced approach doesn’t fully align with their educational philosophy.

Ultimately, Mulberry Learning has carved a distinctive niche in Singapore’s competitive preschool landscape by successfully integrating innovative thinking frameworks with established early childhood pedagogies. Their growing network of centers makes this educational approach accessible to families across different regions of Singapore.

For parents who value a holistic approach that nurtures both character and competence, Mulberry Learning warrants serious consideration. The best approach is to visit multiple centers, observe the learning in action, and speak with current parents to determine if their educational philosophy and specific location will meet your child’s unique needs and your family’s practical requirements.

Choosing the right preschool involves balancing educational philosophy, practical logistics, budget considerations, and most importantly, finding an environment where your child will thrive. Mulberry Learning offers a distinctive approach that emphasizes the development of thinking dispositions and character alongside strong academic foundations.

The network’s integration of Habits of Mind, Reggio Emilia principles, and Multiple Intelligences theory creates a balanced educational experience that prepares children not just academically but develops qualities essential for lifelong success. Their multiple locations across Singapore provide accessibility for families in different neighborhoods, each maintaining the core Mulberry curriculum while adapting to local community needs.

While positioned as a premium provider with corresponding fee structures, many parents find the investment worthwhile given the quality of the educational experience and the emphasis on developing critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. The thoughtfully designed environments, professional teaching staff, and comprehensive curriculum offer children a strong foundation for future learning.

As with any educational decision, parents should visit centers personally, ask detailed questions about daily routines and teaching approaches, and consider how Mulberry Learning’s philosophy aligns with their family values and their child’s individual temperament and learning style.

Whether Mulberry Learning is the right choice depends on your specific priorities, but for many Singapore families, it represents an excellent balance of progressive educational thinking and practical preparation for future academic success.