Convenient, Unique Location and Reasonable Fees: Lorna Whiston Preschool

Parent Name:  Mrs Teo

Nationality: Singaporean

Child Name and Age: Aden Teo, K1

School Location: Winchester

How did you first hear about Lorna Whiston?
I first knew Lorna Whiston as an enrichment centre specialising in English Language and Speech and Drama. Margaret Yap, one of the English Enrichment teachers told us about the school when we dropped by. I had a wonderful impression of her and of the school from that moment on. Later on, I came to learn that Lorna Whiston had preschools as well through my relatives.

What factors played into your decision to send your child to Lorna Whiston?
Convenience, uniqueness of location and fees are some of the reasons why I chose to send my child to the school. My husband works near the preschool so it’s convenient for him.

Driving into the preschool every morning lifts my spirits! In fact, I am jealous that my son gets to spend time in a place that is close to greenery and nature every day. Growing up, we used to have a big field in our primary school that was near a strip of dense jungle and to be honest, the field was a place where most of my happiest childhood memories were made. I want to be able to give the same experience to my child and so, the preschool’s setting was the perfect place for me. The fees are also reasonable in comparison with some of the other top preschools in Singapore.

Did you take a tour of the school before making your decision? What were your first impressions?
The first impression for me was how spacious the school is. We don’t see many preschools with such space and greenery around. From what I observed when I was taken on a tour, the children’s day was filled up with lessons back to back. Yet, the children seemed to be very happy and engaged throughout.

How did your child adjust to the school? Did the school take any special measures to help with the settling in process?
The school allowed us to sit in with Aden on the first three days of school. This gave us a good idea of what a day in school is like for the child and the teachers didn’t just leave us to our own devices. They actively encouraged us to participate and be involved with Aden during lesson time. They told us that doing so would build up Aden’s confidence and willingness to get involved in the lessons and activities, too. Great advice!

What in your opinion are the three greatest strengths of the school?
To me, the three greatest strengths are first of all, the teachers and their ability to engage their students. Secondly, their curriculum, and lastly, their wide variety of daily activities that integrate nicely into the theme taught for the week.

How does the school include parents in the community?
The school holds many celebrations throughout the year and these celebrations go hand in hand with the themes they are learning. Sometimes the school seeks our support in being a part of these events and celebrations. This makes us feel very much a part of a community! Last year, I was a part of the Mother’s Day celebrations and this year, there was a wonderful Sports’ Day involving both my husband and I.

How does the school keep you informed about your child’s progress?
The school actively informs us about our child’s progress. I always look forward to the bi-annual parent teacher meetings when I get to see a beautifully created portfolio filled up with art pieces done by Aden.

Aside from that, at the end of the theme, the school sends, via e-mail, a parent link that showcases what the children have learnt. There are also pictures of the children engaged in these activities. I like the fact that the school is always looking to improve on the parent link, from going paperless to renewing the format now and then. The daily interactions with the teachers reflect a lot about their commitment to Aden.

What is the number one thing you’d miss if you transferred your child to another school?
The wonderful teachers and the school setting!

What kind of child (or family) would you say would be the best fit for this school?
The preschool does very well in catering to different children from different backgrounds. Even for non-locals, the children settle in quite nicely.

What extra-curricular activities or out of school programmes does the school offer that you have taken part in?
I have always allowed my child to take part in the school excursions and he is always very excited when it is excursion day. I can almost always expect him to wake up earlier than me, raring to go on the day itself!