Bilingual Schools In Singapore With Mandarin Immersion Programmes, Dual Language Lessons & More

Looking to enrol your child in a bilingual school in Singapore? Consult our handy guide to pick the right international school or preschool for your child

One of the perks of living in a multicultural and multilingual country like Singapore is the easy access to bilingual education. Being bilingual has been shown to have massive social and cognitive benefits as well, and studies have shown that people who speak multiple languages have better attention spans and multi-tasking abilities, starting from as young as seven months of age! Some international schools and preschools in Singapore offer bilingual immersion programmes for languages such as French, Mandarin, Japanese, Spanish and more. Others have dual language teachers or co-teachers who provide equal language interaction throughout the day or even dedicated language classes. Want to find the right bilingual school in Singapore for your child? We’ve rounded up a list of bilingual international schools and preschools to help get you started.

            Read more:  Guide To Preschools In Singapore

Jump to:
– Bilingual Preschools in Singapore
– Bilingual International Schools in Singapore

Bilingual International Schools in Singapore

XCL World Academy: Immersive bilingual curriculum

Bilingual school languages: Mandarin and English

XCL World Academy offers an immersive bilingual education for kids through the fully integrated IB Primary Years Programme (PYP). Each class is taught by two experienced homeroom teachers–a native Chinese speaker and a native English speaker–who work together to deliver bilingual instruction in Math, Science, Social Studies and both languages. Their bilingual programme is led by Ms. Angela Gao, who is a seasoned bilingual specialist with more than 18 years of experience. Her curriculum combines bilingual immersion with inquiry-based learning and personalised language support so students can grow in fluency and confidence.

The teachers adapt lessons for each grade level and subject, offering holistic support for each child at every stage. From formative assessments to individualised support, students are equipped to thrive academically while establishing a solid foundation for Chinese and English. Thanks to their focus on cultural understanding, students also gain global awareness and intercultural competence, essential skills that last a lifetime.

XCL World Academy, 2 Yishun Street 42, Singapore 768039, Tel: (+65) 6230 4230, [email protected], www.xwa.edu.sg

Read more: Guide To IB Schools In Singapore

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Overseas Family School: Specialised English programme & Mother Tongue support

Multilingual school languages: Danish, Dutch, Finnish, French, German, Hebrew, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, Norwegian, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, and Swedish

Overseas Family School is a popular choice for parents looking for a multilingual school in Singapore. Their Study Preparation Programme (SPP) is a specialised English immersion programme for non-native speakers. This helps them gain a foundation for English so they can integrate smoothly into the mainstream class. In addition, students study their native language for one hour per day for four days a week.

Overseas Family School offers 15 language options, including Dutch, Finnish, German, Italian, Japanese, Swedish and more, all of which are taught by native-speaking instructors. With their Foreign Language Curriculum, students can opt to study additional languages as part of the IB programme. Tailored to meet the diverse linguistic needs of their international student body, they offer individualised language pathways which encourage multilingual development.

Overseas Family School, 81 Pasir Ris Heights, Singapore 519292, Tel: (+65) 6738 0211, www.ofs.edu.sg

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EtonHouse International School: Multilingual education from 9 months and up

Bilingual school languages: Mandarin and English

As a leading expert in multilingual education for children aged nine months to 18 years, EtonHouse International School has nurtured numerous cohorts of fluent bilingual speakers, many of whom come from non-native Mandarin-speaking backgrounds. In the early years, EtonHouse offers two well-established pathways to build a strong foundation in Mandarin. The trusted EtonHouse ZhongHua Full Mandarin Immersion Programme and the bilingual programme offer students a rich learning experience so they can effectively master both English and Mandarin.

At the primary level, EtonHouse Broadrick’s Mandarin Immersion Pathway is aligned with the IB Primary Years Programme and is designed to develop bilingual, culturally competent, and internationally-minded students by the end of Year 6. Notably, Year 5 and 6 students achieved an impressive 84% average in the 2024 Level 4 Youth Chinese Test—a strong testament to the programme’s success in fostering bilingual proficiency. Mandarin is woven into everyday learning, routines, and cultural experiences, allowing students to explore the language through meaningful, real-world contexts while building fluency and confidence.

Etonhouse International School, Mandarin Immersion available at Zhong Hua, Vanda, Newton, Upper Bukit Timah, City Pre-School and Broadrick (Primary) campuses, [email protected], www.etonhouse.edu.sg

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Brighton College (Singapore): Offers Mandarin, French & Spanish

Bilingual school languages: French, Spanish, Mandarin and English

Brighton College (Singapore) offers two languages: Chinese (Mandarin), French and Spanish. In EYFS (Pre-Nursery to Reception), students receive an hour session each week, where interchanging between English and Mandarin supports natural language acquisition as directed by the child’s interests and in line with Early Years pedagogy. From Year 1 to Year 6, Mandarin is taught by Mandarin specialist teachers at least three times per week, allowing students to explore different themes and topics.

The challenge and intensity of the learning activities are tailored to each age group, readiness and language proficiency level. Language is presented through songs, rhymes, language games and instructional activities. From Year 3 up, all children are exposed to a second additional language through weekly French classes, while Year 7 onwards will have the choice of Mandarin, French and Spanish. The school has welcomed Year 9 pupils in August 2024, with Year 10 in 2025 and Years 11 to 13 to follow, allowing them to pursue their IGCSE and A-level courses. Admissions are open all year round.

Brighton College (Singapore), 1 Chuan Lane, Singapore 554299, www.brightoncollege.edu.sg

Read more: Guide to International Schools In Singapore

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Canadian International School (CIS): Award-winning bilingual curriculum

Bilingual school languages: French-English and Chinese-English programmes

For the past decade, Canadian International School (CIS) in Singapore has been a global leader in bilingual education. As one of the most experienced and trusted international schools in the region that offers award-winning bilingual programmes, they empower students to become fluent communicators in at least two global languages. From Kindergarten to Grade 6, CIS offers both Chinese-English and French-English bilingual programmes, fully aligned with the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP). Each class is taught by two native-speaking educators, so students benefit from equal exposure to both languages in a balanced 50:50 model. Its research-driven approach, developed in partnership with local and international universities, is grounded in the understanding that language fluency is incomplete without cultural literacy.

Students in Grades 7 to 10 can also benefit from the bilingual pathway in an expanded model. Learning is further enriched through drama and overseas trips that help develop advanced literacy and critical thinking skills in both languages while immersing in culture. 35% of CIS Class of 2024 graduates earned the prestigious IB Bilingual Diploma, which goes to show that CIS’s bilingual model prepares globally competent, bi-literate and bicultural learners who are ready to lead in an increasingly globalised world.

Canadian International School, 7 Jurong West Street 41, Singapore 649414, Tel: (+65) 6467 1732, www.cis.edu.sg

Read more: Best Chinese Tuition Centres In Singapore For Kids

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Dulwich College (Singapore): Dual Language programme

Dual language school languages: Mandarin and English

Affectionately referred to as DUCKS, the experienced educators at Dulwich College (Singapore) believe that it is crucial for young children to be exposed to more than one language. Their Dual Language environment supports children’s cognitive and social development by simultaneously nurturing English and Mandarin, daily. Every class has a native Mandarin-speaking teacher who works closely with the native English-speaking class teacher to ensure that children are consistently exposed to two languages throughout the day.

In the Foundation Stage, teachers use a child-initiated play approach and encourage meaningful interactions in both languages. For little ones in Pre-Nursery, the primary goal of the Dual Language programme is for students to be proficient in understanding and speaking English and Mandarin in social and learning contexts by the end of Year 2. As such, students from Reception to Year 2 also have daily differentiated Mandarin lessons for up to an hour.

Dulwich College (Singapore), 71 Bukit Batok West Avenue 8, Singapore 658966, Tel: (+65) 6890 1003, [email protected], www.singapore.dulwich.org

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Holland International School: Bilingual education for kids aged 1.5 and up

Bilingual school languages: Dutch/Mandarin and English

Happy children learn better! Holland International School prioritises happiness, encouraging holistic growth in kids beyond academic pursuits, which in turn builds their confidence, leadership and a love for lifelong learning. With over 100 years of experience, Holland International School offers quality bilingual education for children aged 1.5 to 12 years old. In their preschool programme, children are exposed to English and Mandarin/Dutch on a daily basis.

Inspired by the Primary Curriculum (IPC), the school offers both a Dutch and English Stream at the primary school level, where students can look forward to a rich and engaging learning environment that will hone their language skills. Regardless of the chosen track, students pursue an excellent education with smaller class sizes, personalised and differentiated learning, character building in co-ownership, equality and critical thinking and a safe, happy and empowering learning environment. Click here to register for their upcoming Open House to see for yourself!

Holland International School, 65 Bukit Tinggi Road, Singapore 289757, www.hollandinternationalschool.sg

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The Perse School (Singapore): Immersive English-Mandarin bilingual programme

Bilingual school languages: Mandarin and English

Starting from August 2025, The Perse School (Singapore)’s immersive English-Mandarin Bilingual Programme will offer a unique dual-language education model for children aged 3 to 7 (Nursery to Year 2). Through this programme, students will benefit from a true 50/50 dual language immersion and a structured curriculum aligned with the Cambridge International framework, which will nurture confident, globally minded learners who are proficient in both English and Mandarin.

Beyond nurturing bilingual students, this programme instils cultural understanding, empathy and global awareness through immersive language experiences embedded in daily school life and activities outside the classroom. Designed for early learners aged 3 to 7, the programme capitalises on the critical window for natural language acquisition while also fostering bicultural understanding and global awareness through immersive experiences in and beyond the classroom. Each class is co-led by expert English and Chinese teachers, supported by teaching assistants to provide individualised learning and ensure smooth progression.

The Perse School (Singapore), 58 Chestnut Drive, Singapore 679301, [email protected], www.perse.edu.sg

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SJI International Elementary School: English-Chinese bilingual programme

Bilingual school languages: Mandarin and English

SJI International Elementary School launched its English-Chinese Bilingual Programme in January 2024, providing a new opportunity for students to experience immersive language learning. This bilingual programme in Singapore caters to students in Prep 1, Prep 2, Grades 1 and 2 in its inaugural year, giving students a unique dual-language experience. Choose between two distinctive routes: the Mainstream Programme and the Bilingual Programme, each tailored to meet the diverse needs of different students.

The Mainstream Programme places a strong emphasis on English, which is the primary language of instruction, and also offers Mandarin lessons in the weekly timetable, so students have the chance to learn a second language. For those looking for a more immersive experience, the Bilingual Programme follows a ten-day teaching cycle, where students will learn various subjects in both languages, ensuring a balanced and comprehensive education. Regardless of the programme you choose, SJI International’s exceptional educators are committed to providing a supportive and enriching learning environment to nurture the linguistic growth and holistic development of each child.

St. Joseph’s Institution International, 490 Thomson Road, Singapore 298191, [email protected], Tel: (+65) 6353 9383, www.sji-international.com.sg

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Other bilingual international schools in Singapore:

– GIIS: Bilingual education in English and Mandarin.
– Hillside World Academy: Chinese-English immersion programme and added support for students’ mother tongues.
– International French School: French and English bilingual programme with language support programmes at this affordable international school.
– Swiss School Singapore: Bilingual education in German and English or French and English.

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Bilingual Preschools in Singapore

ChildFirst Pre-school: Immersive English-Mandarin bilingual programme

Bilingual preschool languages: Mandarin and English

ChildFirst Preschool offers a unique bilingual programme that immerses children in both English and Chinese daily. Each day is divided equally between both languages, allowing children to absorb and acquire both languages naturally during their most receptive years. The English programme builds a strong foundation through phonics and reading. By age five, children are introduced to literature, expanding their vocabulary and comprehension by exploring various genres. The Chinese Rapid Word Recognition (快字通) programme uses rhymes and word families to teach Chinese characters, making learning effective and enjoyable.

To prepare children for a tech-driven future, ChildFirst integrates artificial intelligence into its curriculum. In English, children co-create storybooks with a child-friendly version of ChatGPT, alternating between AI-generated and child-written sentences. They illustrate their stories and enhance them using DALL·E, an AI image tool, sparking creativity and digital literacy. For Chinese, a customised AI app tracks each child’s progress and personalises learning through games, media, and rewards. This adaptive approach strengthens retention and engagement. ChildFirst’s bilingual programme not only nurtures strong language skills but also equips children with the creativity and confidence to thrive in a multilingual, AI-powered world.

Quote SASSYMAMA to get $200 off school fees for the first 12 months (total of $2,400 off!). Valid for first-time enrolment to Hillview, Mountbatten and Tampines campuses with payment of the application fee and a one-month deposit. T&Cs apply.

ChildFirst Pre-school, three locations in Singapore including Hillview, Mountbatten and Tampines, www.childfirst.com.sg

Read more: Guide To Preschools In Singapore

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House on the Hill Montessori Pre-school: Mandarin programme

Bilingual preschool languages: Mandarin and English

House on the Hill’s Mandarin programme is thoughtfully designed to nurture a genuine love for the language in every child. Seamlessly integrated into the Montessori curriculum, Mandarin becomes part of the child’s everyday learning experience—joyful, engaging, and meaningful learning experiences. Native-speaking educators, passionate about both teaching and the language, guide children through a variety of rich and stimulating activities that help build confidence and fluency naturally. From songs and storytelling to brushwork, rhymes, drama, and cultural celebrations, learning Mandarin feels natural, enjoyable and full of discovery.

This immersive, hands-on approach nurtures a love for learning and languages from a young age. House on the Hill creates the right environment where children can develop listening, speaking, reading and writing Mandarin. For families looking to deepen their child’s Mandarin exposure, optional afternoon immersion sessions are available at all campuses. These sessions take place in a warm and nurturing space where the heart learns.

Enjoy registration fee waivers worth $763 for eligible enrolments. T&Cs apply.

House on the Hill, multiple locations including Mount Sophia, Balmoral, Hollandse Club and Pasir Panjang (click here for all locations), Tel: (+65) 6337 4635, [email protected], www.houseonthehill.com.sg

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Les Petit Gaulois: French-English preschool with outdoor learning

Bilingual preschool languages: French and English

Les Petits Gaulois is a French-English bilingual preschool that integrates language, exploration and play in a fun and stimulating environment. Children are exposed to both French and English through structured lessons, creative play and project-based learning under the guidance of French-native educators. What parents love most about this bilingual preschool is their purposeful outdoor learning space. From gardening to nature walks and collaborative outdoor projects, children can connect with nature, ask questions and explore the world with all of their senses.

The school follows the French National Education curriculum, enriched by its unique 4C framework: Curiosity, Confidence, Creativity and Continuity. Students will also learn Mandarin as a third language through dedicated enrichment sessions. Classes are kept small so that each child gets the personalised attention they deserve. Understanding that it takes a village to raise a child, this bilingual preschool partners closely with families to support each child’s learning journey. After children graduate from Kindergarten 2, they can enjoy a seamless pathway to primary schools such as the International French School (IFS). Book a tour today to discover how their nature-inspired approach and bilingual programme can help your child thrive.

Les Petits Gaulois, 895 East Coast Road, Singapore 459098, Tel: (+65) 6443 5400, www.lespetitsgaulois.com

Read more: Preschools In Singapore With Outdoor Space

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Trehaus: Bilingual preschool with small class sizes

Bilingual preschool languages: Mandarin and English

Trehaus School offers a unique learning environment for little ones aged 18 months to 6 years old. This bilingual preschool in Singapore is located within Funan Mall, adjacent to the Trehaus Business Club, so that mamas and dads can work at the co-working space and pop in to see their kiddo at break time or for easy pickup! The Trehaus School curriculum is holistic, play and project-based, and parents can choose from a bilingual or Mandarin immersion programme.

For the latter, 70% of lessons and activities are conducted in Mandarin and done so within a full Mandarin space with Mandarin-speaking teachers. The bilingual stream provides a dual language learning experience with one dedicated Chinese teacher and one dedicated English teacher who work together to support both English and Mandarin acquisition, pegged at your child’s ability level. The unparalleled 1:5 teacher-child ratio ensures your child has ample attention throughout their lessons to ensure they are on track and flourishing.

Trehaus School, 109 North Bridge Rd, Funan Mall #07-21-33 S179097, [email protected], Tel: 9855 0484, www.trehausschool.com

Read more: Guide To Baby Classes & Playgroups In Singapore

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 Other Bilingual Preschools in Singapore:

– Alphabet Playhouse: English and Mandarin bilingual programme, with Japanese at their Somerset campus.
– British Council Preschool: Bilingual English and Mandarin curriculum.
– BlueHouse International: Bilingual English and Mandarin education
– Blue Lion Preschool: Bilingual English and Chinese preschool with Buddhist approach.
– BrainFit School House: Immersive English and Mandarin curriculums.
– Children’s Cove Preschool: English and Chinese programme with native teachers
– LeClare Preschool: Bilingual English and Mandarine programme
– Little Paddington Preschool: Mandarin immersion programme
– Lorna Whiston Preschool: Award-winning Chinese/English bilingual programme
– MapleBear Preschool: English and Mandarin bilingual immersion programme.
– Mulberry Learning: Reggio Emilia-inspired learning and Chinese/English bilingual programme
– My Learning Haven: English and Mandarin bilingual programme
– Primus Schoolhouse: Chinese and English bilingual programme
– Odyssey – The Global Preschool: Chinese Immersion programme
– Shaws Preschool: Play-based bilingual Mandarin-English curriculum.

Read more:Preschools with Outdoor Spaces in Singapore

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