Kindergarten 1 at Hess
Confident, capable, thoughtful learners — strong foundations for Primary School.
typical teacher–child ratio in Kindergarten 1
Designed for children in the year they turn 5
The transition to Kindergarten 1 marks a crucial step in your child's educational journey. By K1, children emerge as confident, capable, and thoughtful learners who navigate routines with increasing independence.
Our K1 programme builds confidence and school readiness through engaging, project-based learning — combining academic preparation with hands-on projects that connect classroom concepts to the real world.
We understand the demands on working parents in Singapore. While many international preschools operate within a shorter 9am–3pm window, Hess Preschool provides a full-day programme from 7:00 AM — giving children an unhurried day and families real flexibility.
Core learning areas
Every learning area supports holistic development while keeping children engaged, curious, and joyfully busy.
Phonics, Literacy & Writing
Children master all 42 letter sounds through our systematic Jolly Phonics programme, progressing confidently into blending, reading, and early writing.
Thematic Learning
Meaningful themes unfold through hands-on projects lasting 2–4 weeks. Math, literacy, science, and art connect naturally — and each theme concludes with children sharing their discoveries.
Mathematics
Confident problem-solvers grow through the CPA approach — K1 students develop deep conceptual understanding of numbers up to 20 and beyond.
Social-Emotional Growth
Empathy and collaboration develop through group activities, classroom responsibilities, and teamwork — learning to resolve conflicts and support friends.
A day in the life of a Kindergarten 1 child
Each day blends the comfort of familiar routines with plenty of space to explore, play, and learn. Activities may vary by day.
Kindergarten 1 — frequently asked questions
If you don't find what you're looking for, please don't hesitate to reach out.
Generally, Kindergarten 1 in Singapore is for children who are turning five years old in the year they attend. The Ministry of Education (MOE) framework defines the K1 year as the first of two years of kindergarten education, immediately preceding the K2 year. It’s also a critical period focused on building the academic and social foundations necessary for the successful transition to Primary 1.
Our comprehensive Kindergarten 1 curriculum nurtures every aspect of your child’s development. Through thematic-based learning enriched with projects, show and tell presentations, and STEAM education, we create meaningful learning experiences. Children master literacy systematically through Jolly Phonics while building mathematical understanding via the Concrete-Pictorial-Abstract (CPA) approach, all within an integrated bilingual environment. This academic rigour is balanced with social-emotional development, as children cultivate independence, leadership capabilities, and essential social skills for working and playing together through collaborative thematic project work.
At Hess Preschool, we balance rigorous academic preparation with nurturing, project-based learning. Our integrated Chinese-English bilingual curriculum builds primary school readiness alongside curiosity and confidence.
What’s more, our intentionally low teacher-child ratio ensures each child receives ample individual attention and support. Our K1 programme works closely with parents through regular communication to address any learning gaps and support each child’s development.
To enrol your child in Kindergarten 1 at Hess Preschool, the best first step is to book a school tour via the contact form below. During this personal visit, you’ll get the chance to explore our classrooms, meet our dedicated team, and experience our learning environment firsthand.
Once you’ve decided to enrol, you can officially secure a spot for your child by providing a deposit equivalent to one month’s school fees, along with a non-refundable administration fee.
Browse our other programmes
Playgroup
First friendships, first routines, first discoveries — a gentle, joyful start to school life.
Nursery 1
A nurturing start to early education — purposeful play meets first academic foundations.
Nursery 2
Curiosity deepens — structured learning that still feels like play.
Kindergarten 2
The capstone year — independence, mastery, and a confident leap into Primary 1.
See Kindergarten 1 in action
The best way to feel the Hess difference is to see it. Book a personalised school tour and visit a classroom in session.