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Interested in a Montessori education for your child? We explain the Montessori method’s core principles and round up preschools in Singapore to consider!
If you are looking into Montessori preschools in Singapore for your tot and have a million questions about what the Montessori method entails, we’ve got your back! Wondering whether a Montessori education in Singapore offers mixed-age classes and which kindergartens adhere to its principles? We’ve found the answers you need and have even shortlisted several Montessori preschools in Singapore to get you started.
Jump to:
– What is the Montessori Method?
– How Montessori Education Works in Singapore
– Montessori Preschools in Singapore
Read more: Ultimate Guide to Kindergartens and Preschools
What is the Montessori Method?
With schools around the world and a slew of famous alumni, the Montessori method has a reputation for encouraging curiosity and “outside the box” thinking in children. It’s a child-centred educational approach developed over 100 years ago by Maria Montessori – Italy’s first female doctor. According to The American Montessori Society, the Montessori method “is a view of the child as one who is naturally eager for knowledge and capable of initiating learning in a supportive, thoughtfully prepared learning environment. It is an approach that values the human spirit and the development of the whole child – physical, social, emotional and cognitive.”
In short, kids are sponges, and given the freedom to explore and learn at their own pace, their minds will flourish. A “true” Montessori school possesses the following core traits:
- Mixed-age classrooms that facilitate peer learning (younger kids learn from older kids, and the older kids reinforce their own learning by teaching the younger kids)
- Uninterrupted blocks of work time (typically in three-hour intervals)
- Children can choose their own activities (with guidance and encouragement from teachers)
- Specially designed learning materials that aren’t toys
- A deliberately arranged classroom environment (nary a desk in sight!)
- Teachers trained at official Montessori training centres certified by Association Montessori Internationale (AMI)
- No grades or tests
- Focus on four key areas: Practical life, Sensorial, Language and Mathematics
With children in many ways left to their own devices, Montessori is thought to foster independence, leadership skills and self-control. A 2006 study by Science Magazine found that by the end of kindergarten, Montessori children “performed better on standardised tests of reading and math, engaged in more positive interaction on the playground, and showed more advanced social cognition and executive control. They also showed more concern for fairness and justice.”
How Montessori Education Works in Singapore
Because Montessori is more of a philosophy than a rigid curriculum, any school can call itself Montessori, even if it barely adheres to the core principles. They would certainly seem to be at odds with Singapore, where testing, grades and a strict classroom environment play a huge role in the educational system (and rules and parameters tend to guide daily life in general!). Parents who fret about how their child will perform in P1 are understandably nervous about a system without grades or testing – how can I ensure my child is on the right track?
All that said, there are many satisfied parents out there who feel Montessori instilled critical thinking skills and independence in their kids as well as a strong foundation in reading, writing and math. Some children might struggle to adapt to the rigidity of desks and homework after being at a Montessori school at first, but kids are highly adaptable, and often, the strong foundation and educational curiosity seem to win out. Make sure to reach out to any school you’re investigating to speak with current and former parents. Montessori schools in Singapore typically encourage parents and prospective parents to observe classrooms to get a feel for the programme and how it might work for their child.
Montessori Preschools & Kindergartens in Singapore
While we’ve listed out some of the most established Montessori preschools in Singapore, our list is hardly exhaustive and is certainly not an official list of endorsed schools. As you’ll see, hardly any Singapore Montessori schools meet all of the core Montessori criteria listed above. The tradeoff is that many Montessori schools have created an environment thought to help kids more easily transition into Singapore’s traditional educational system – many have fantastic Mandarin immersion programmes, while still incorporating the flexible style and unique materials of the Montessori method. When you are looking for a Montessori school you can ask if they adhere to the Montessori school core traits listed above to see for yourself which schools best suit what you are looking for.
1. House on the Hill: Montessori curriculum with immersive Mandarin programme
House on the Hill Montessori Preschool offers infant care and early childhood programmes within exploratory environments grounded in Montessori principles. At its Balmoral branch, the Infant Care programme supports development, introducing little ones to sensorial materials, providing one-on-one attention and offering opportunities for movement and exploration that nurture language, emotional and physical development.
The school also provides exposure to Mandarin and Japanese. Its afternoon Mandarin immersion programme places children in a Chinese-speaking environment through cultural activities and language practice, helping them build familiarity and confidence in using the language naturally. The weekly Sensei-led Japanese programme introduces language learning through songs, crafts, conversation and cultural activities, supporting both language development and cultural connection. Beyond the classroom, House on the Hill also features a huge outdoor playground, along with healthy and nutritious meals!
Enjoy $763 off the registration fee! Promotion is extended until 30 June 2026. Applicable to new students at House on the Hill campuses only. Terms and conditions apply.
House on the Hill, multiple locations including Mount Sophia, Pasir Panjang, Balmoral Crescent and Hollandse Club, www.houseonthehill.com.sg
2. Greentree Montessori: Authentic Montessori education with 35 year experience
If you’re looking for a preschool that honours your child’s independence, respects their pace of growth, and provides a nurturing environment from infancy through to preschool, look no further than Greentree Montessori. Established in 1990, Greentree Montessori has been trusted by generations of Singaporean families for over 35 years, offering a complete early years journey from infant care to preschool. With multiple campuses islandwide, Greentree Montessori is one of the few schools in Singapore to provide authentic Montessori education, led by professionally and officially trained educators (including AMI-certified teachers!).
At its infant campuses, Greentree Montessori adopts the respectful caregiving principles of RIE and Pikler, creating calm, responsive environments where infants and toddlers are supported through personalised routines that build emotional security and healthy independence. We love that all of their campuses are located near natural green spaces and have outdoor classrooms! Additionally, the school organises monthly field trips, outdoor community projects, and family events, all within thoughtfully prepared environments that nurture curiosity, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning.
Greentree Montessori, multiple locations in Singapore, including Mandai, Sembawang and Thomson Hills Drive, www.greentreemontessori.com
3. Amazing Star Montessori: Child-centred Montessori approach
Amazing Star Montessori adopts a child-centred approach to nurture independence, confidence and a love for learning. Rather than using rewards and punishment, they focus on intrinsic motivation, giving children the freedom to pursue their interests. Each lesson follows a structured routine that fosters concentration and gives children a sense of order. Here, young learners enjoy lots of hands-on exploration that makes learning fun.
Amazing Star Montessori, three locations in Singapore including Bukit Panjang, Choa Chu Kang and Yishun, www.amazingstar.sg
4. Brainy Child Montessori Learning Centre: Personalised learning programme
Brainy Child is a boutique Montessori preschool in Singapore with a small teacher-student ratio that accepts children from 18 months to 7 years old. Their curriculum follows the Montessori method, covering the five areas of Montessori – Language, Math, Sensorial, Practical Life, and Culture. Children learn according to their pace and level in a personalised learning programme.
Brainy Child Montessori Learning Centre, 150 Orchard Road, Orchard Plaza #05-38/43, Singapore 238841, www.brainychildmontessori.sg
5. Inno Montessori: Authentic Montessori preschool
As the only school in Singapore recognised by The American Montessori Society, Inno Montessori’s commitment to the fundamentals of the methods offers parents an authentic Montessori environment. Children aged 15 months to 12 years old are welcome for half- and full-day sessions.
Inno Montessori, 217 East Coast Road, Singapore 428905, www.innomontessori.com
6. Josiah Montessori: Nurtures curiosity for self-discovery and growth
This Montessori school in Singapore embraces and celebrates every child’s uniqueness and individuality by nurturing their innate curiosity for self-discovery and growth within a safe, secure and loving environment. Students are empowered to express themselves creatively, build positive mindsets and healthy relationships. The environment at this preschool, from the tables, to chairs, toilets and washbasins, is easily reached by tots so they can become independent in their interaction with the classroom.
Josiah Montessori, multiple locations in Singapore including Suntec City, Tampines and Pasir Ris, www.josiah.com.sg
7. Les Oliviers: French & English bilingual Montessori preschool
The first and only French/English bilingual Montessori preschool in Singapore, Les Oliviers welcomes children from 18 months to age 6 on a half-day basis, with additional activities available in the afternoon, as well as parent-accompanied classes for younger children. The school employs traditional Montessori materials and pedagogy, relying on a sensorial approach to help children with the French language and mathematics. Educators are also AMI-certified.
Les Oliviers, 66 Namly Place, Singapore 267211, www.oliviers-french-montessori.com
8. Little Woods Montessori: Experiential learning and sensorial activities
Since Little Woods Montessori opened its doors to little ones in 1998, its highly experienced and passionate teachers have been guiding children to be independent thinkers by giving them a safe, nurturing and stimulating environment to become independent thinkers and self-directed leaders. The bespoke curriculum and specially designed classrooms provide plenty of opportunities for experiential learning, including activities from everyday life and sensorial activities.
Little Woods Montessori, 330 Balestier Road, Singapore 329762, www.littlewoodsmontessori.com
9. The Little House Montessori: Montessori preschool with outdoor space
This bilingual Montessori kindergarten in Singapore is staffed by teachers trained either in-house or at various international Montessori organisations (not necessarily AMI). Besides a garden for plenty of outdoor play, Little House offers fun features like weekly science experiments, lots of field trips, and more.
The Little House Montessori, 6 Jalan Keria, Singapore 588534, www.thelittlehousemontessori.com
10. Lodestar Montessori Preschool: Montessori school for kids aged 12 and under
Lodestar Montessori is said to be the first-ever elementary school offering Montessori in Singapore. Run by AMI-trained Montessori educators, it caters to children aged 3 to 12 – and 12 to 18 in its Erdkinder branch – and is open to both Singapore PRs and DP holders. Children are educated in a loving, cosy and mistake-friendly environment. Freedom of choice is very much encouraged so as to nurture each child’s inner guide and independence.
Lodestar Montessori, three locations in Singapore: 23 Jalan Teliti (Preschool), 24 Jalan Selaseh (Elementary) and 69 Brighton Crescent (Erdkinder), lodestarmontessori.com
11. Little Sparks Montessori: One-on-one teaching approach
The LittleSparks Montessori programme aims to be true to the philosophy of Dr. Maria Montessori, and children are exposed to a range of carefully selected materials designed to engage all their senses. Their Montessori curriculum is tailored to meet each child’s needs via a one-on-one teaching approach, and children are encouraged to explore and express themselves freely.
Little Sparks Montessori, 20 Siglap Drive, Singapore 456192, www.littlesparks.com.sg
12. Masterminds Montessori: Montessori preschool with a Chinese immersion programme
This Montessori kindergarten in Singapore has a curriculum specially curated by its founders, who have more than 30 years of combined experience. Pre-nursery and nursery children have the option to attend a full Chinese immersion programme for the first three hours each day.
Masterminds Montessori, 68 Namly Place, Singapore 267214 and 8 Chu Lin Road, Singapore 669898, www.mail.masterminds.sg
13. Modern Montessori International Preschools (MMI): More than 20 centres across Singapore
MMI is in no way affiliated with AMI, though they do have a training centre in Singapore, so many teachers are trained there. There are more than 20 MMI preschools across the island incorporating traditional Montessori materials and adhering to the four core values of practical life, sensorial, language and mathematics, but the consensus seems to be that it’s very different from a traditional Montessori environment. Classes are not mixed-age.
Modern Montessori International Preschools, multiple locations in Singapore including Henry Park, Bedok Reservoir and Bukit Batok, www.modern-montessori.com
14. Montessori for Children: AMI-trained teachers
Montessori purists consider this preschool one of the only true Montessori schools in Singapore. Teachers at Montessori for Children are AMI-trained, classes adhere to the mixed-age structure, and classrooms feature the traditional “prepared environment” with classic Montessori materials. There’s also strong Mandarin immersion in all classes.
Montessori for Children, 43 Newton Road, Singapore 307970 & 11 Broadrick Road, Singapore 439476, www.montessori.edu.sg
15. Montessori Place of Learning: Play-based learning
This Montessori preschool in Singapore was established in 1997 and offers a mixed-class and Montessori environment to help children develop social, emotional and learning skills the Montessori way.
Montessori Place of Learning, 190, Clemenceau Avenue, #02-11, Singapore 239924, www.montessoriplace.com.sg
16. Pink Tower Montessori: Montessori curriculum & bilingual programme
Pink Tower Montessori has a full Montessori curriculum and bilingual immersion programme for kids from 18 months to 6 years, earning raves from parents for its warm and caring teachers (not necessarily AMI-trained, though). Classes are semi-mixed age, with a separate Kindergarten class geared toward preparation for local primary school.
Pink Tower Montessori, 252 Tembeling Road, Singapore 423731, www.pinktowermontessori.sg
17. Raffles Montessori Kindergarten: Mixed-age group programmes
This Montessori kindergarten in Singapore has a full Montessori programme that’s headed by a qualified directress. Their mixed-age group programmes use specialised Montessori materials and classrooms – all approved by AMI – and children also have access to English and Mandarin supplemental programmes with a strong focus on the arts and music.
Raffles Montessori Kindergarten, 46 Lorong 23 Geylang, Singapore 388375, www.rafflesmontessorikindergarten.com
18. Superland Preschool: Bilingual Montessori curriculum
Superland Preschool adopts a Montessori teaching approach, nurturing children aged 2 months to 6 years. Their thoughtfully crafted bilingual curriculum makes learning a ton of fun, tapping into young learners’ innate curiosity and inspire a lifelong love of learning. Their Montessori curriculum incorporates Practical Life Skills, Sensory Experiences, Language Development, Numeracy and a variety of cultural activities.
Superland Preschool, 568 Ganges Avenue, #02-102, Singapore 160568, www.superland.com.sg
19. Wharton Preschool: Learner-focused approach
This preschool in Singapore offers a holistic, learner-focused Montessori approach with an integrated thematic curriculum for children aged 18 months to 6 years. Here, qualified teachers design an individualised education plan for every child, allowing them to choose activities that pique their interest while teachers ensure that developmental areas required in the MOE NEL framework are fully met.
Wharton Preschool, three locations in Singapore including Admiralty Street, Serangoon North and Upper East Coast Road, www.whartonpreschool.com
Read more: Alternative Schools in Singapore: Montessori, Waldorf, Homeschooling and More
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