Best Bilingual Preschools, Kindergartens & Nurseries in Singapore (2025 / 2026 Guide For Early Years)

BILINGUAL PRESCHOOL: EtonHouse International Preschool - ZhongHua Full Mandarin Immersion Programme And The Bilingual Programme

EtonHouse International School is well known for helping children become confident bilingual speakers—even if they’re starting from scratch. For younger kids, there are two solid options: a full Mandarin immersion programme (called ZhongHua) for deep language exposure, and a bilingual track that balances English and Mandarin in daily learning. Both are designed to make language learning feel natural and fun.

As children move into primary school, the Mandarin Immersion Pathway at the Broadrick campus continues to build on that strong foundation. It’s aligned with the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), so kids get to learn Mandarin through meaningful, inquiry-based activities. Mandarin is part of everyday routines, classroom projects, and cultural experiences. t’s a great option for families who want their kids to be truly bilingual and globally ready.

• Immersion Approach: Full Mandarin immersion pathway with bilingual teachers guiding children through inquiry-based, play-rich learning environments.

• Why It Stands Out: One of the few schools in Singapore offering a pure Mandarin track from Pre-Nursery through K2. Inspired by Reggio Emilia and IB philosophies, it supports deep bilingual fluency.

EtonHouse International Education Group, Mandarin Immersion available at Zhong Hua, Vanda, Newton, Upper Bukit Timah, City Pre-School and Broadrick (Primary) campuses, +65 6746 3333, admissions@etonhouse.edu.sg, www.etonhouse.edu.sg

BILINGUAL INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL WITH EARLY YEARS: Brighton College (Singapore): Mandarin Specialist Teachers

Brighton College Singapore offers a fun and dynamic approach to learning languages, including Mandarin, French, and Spanish. In the Early Years (Pre-Nursery to Reception), kids enjoy weekly sessions where they naturally switch between English and Mandarin, following their curiosity and interests—perfect for little language explorers. From Year 1 to Year 6, specialist Mandarin teachers lead classes at least three times a week, covering exciting themes and topics tailored to each child’s age and skill level.

Starting Year 3, students also get to dive into French with weekly classes, and from Year 7 onwards, they can choose between Mandarin, French, or Spanish. The school recently expanded to welcome Year 9 students, with Years 10 to 13 rolling out soon, so older kids can take their IGCSEs and A-levels. Admissions are open year-round, making it easy for families to join anytime.

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

BILINGUAL INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL WITH EARLY YEARS: Canadian International School (CIS) Singapore (IB Language Integration)

Canadian International School (CIS) Singapore has established itself as a top choice for bilingual education over the past decade. Offering Chinese-English and French-English bilingual programmes from Kindergarten to Grade 6, CIS integrates these tracks seamlessly with the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP). Each class benefits from two native-speaking teachers, ensuring balanced exposure to both languages through a 50:50 teaching model. CIS’s bilingual curriculum is backed by research and emphasizes cultural literacy alongside language proficiency, recognizing that true fluency goes beyond vocabulary.

For students in Grades 7 to 10, CIS extends the bilingual experience with enriched learning opportunities, including drama and cultural immersion trips. These activities support the development of advanced language skills and critical thinking.

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

BILINGUAL INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL WITH EARLY YEARS: Dulwich College Singapore (Bilingual Early Years - DUCKS Program)

Known affectionately as DUCKS, Dulwich College Singapore’s early years team believes in the power of bilingual learning from a young age. Their Dual Language programme supports children’s growth by nurturing both English and Mandarin every day. Each class is led by a native Mandarin-speaking teacher working alongside a native English-speaking teacher to make sure kids hear and use both languages consistently throughout the day.

In the Foundation Stage, learning is child-led through play, encouraging kids to engage naturally in both languages. For the youngest learners in Pre-Nursery, the focus is on developing a strong understanding and speaking skills in English and Mandarin by the time they finish Year 2. From Reception to Year 2, students also receive up to an hour of tailored Mandarin lessons daily to support their language journey.

Location: Dulwich College (Singapore), 71 Bukit Batok West Avenue 8, Singapore 658966
Contact: (+65) 6890 1003 | admissions.singapore@dulwich.org | www.singapore.dulwich.org

BILINGUAL INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL: German European School Singapore (Language Options + Support)

In Pre-Kindergarten, children are naturally immersed in both English and German. English is the main classroom language, while daily activities with the German Language Team introduce playful German learning. In Kindergarten and Pre-Primary, families can choose from three streams:

• Bilingual (English and German)
• English Immersion (with German as a second language)
• German Immersion (with English as a second language).

Language support is available in all streams, helping children strengthen their skills through fun, small-group activities or in-class support, building confidence every step of the way!

GESS International School, +65 6461 0801, admissions@gess.sg, www.gess.sg

BILINGUAL PRESCHOOL: MapleBear Preschools In Singapore (40+ School Locations + Bilingual Immersion In Family-Like Atmosphere)

Bringing the best of Canadian education to Singapore, MapleBear focuses on literacy development in both English and Mandarin through full immersion. With over 40 locations islandwide, it’s a popular option for families looking for consistency and flexibility. The programme emphasizes nurturing, safety, and multilingual readiness.

Maple Bear’s signature bilingual immersion programme follows a progressive language structure that encourages children to speak, read, and write confidently in both English and Mandarin, while also supporting development in their native languages. The early childhood curriculum is thoughtfully crafted, incorporating daily routines, engaging activity centres, and hands-on experiences that reflect how young children naturally learn. Through play and exploration, children are given meaningful opportunities to develop their social, emotional, motor, language, and cultural skills in a nurturing, bilingual environment.

• Immersion Approach: Canadian dual-language model focused on full-language immersion for natural acquisition of English and Mandarin.

• Why It Stands Out: Strong literacy foundation through Canadian early years pedagogy, coupled with Mandarin immersion tailored to young learners.

MapleBear Singapore, info@maplebear.sg, https://www.maplebear.sg/contact-us/

BILINGUAL PRESCHOOL: Little Paddington (Following Singapore's MOE Primary Syllabus)

In today’s world, knowing Mandarin is a huge plus, opening up lots of opportunities in business, culture, and communication. The Mandarin Immersion Programme at  Little Paddington helps little ones build a solid foundation by surrounding them with Mandarin in a fun and natural way. The curriculum follows Singapore’s Ministry of Education (MOE) primary syllabus, making it easier for kids to transition to primary school later on. Starting early means children pick up the language with confidence and ease, giving them a great head start in becoming bilingual and ready for the global stage.

Little Paddington, Various locations in Singapore, +65 8748 8417,  https://www.littlepaddington.com/curriculum/mandarin

BILINGUAL PRESCHOOL AND KINDERGARTEN: MindChamps Chinese Preschool And Kindergarten In Singapore

MindChamps Chinese PreSchool welcomes children aged 18 months to 6 years into an immersive Mandarin-rich environment that’s ideal for building early bilingual confidence. For the youngest learners, classes are conducted predominantly in Mandarin, with a 90:10 Chinese to English ratio. As children grow, the programme gradually shifts to a more balanced mix, preparing them well for primary school.

The curriculum is based on cutting-edge research in neuroscience, psychology, education, and the arts, and follows the unique S.M.I.L.E.S.™ methodology—designed to support children’s Sensory, Motor, Intellectual, Linguistic, Emotional, and Social development. Mandarin is integrated not only into academics but also through enrichment activities like music, movement, and cultural appreciation. Children explore calligraphy, clay art, traditional songs, storytelling, and even tea culture.

Parents often notice their children becoming more confident speaking Mandarin at home and more enthusiastic about learning—proof of a nurturing, engaging environment where language comes to life every day.

• Immersion Approach: Mandarin-first learning approach using MindChamps’ proprietary S.M.I.L.E.S™ methodology, integrating sensory play, language, and emotional development.

• Why It Stands Out: Specifically designed for bilingual confidence, this program balances Mandarin immersion with progressive exposure to English.

MindChamps Chinese Preschool, +65 8233 4400, enquiries@mindchamps.org, www.mindchamps.org

BILINGUAL NURSERY / PRESCHOOL / KINDERGARTEN: British Council Pre-School Singapore (Singapore-UK Education)

At British Council Pre-school Singapore, children thrive in a warm, bilingual environment where both English and Mandarin are used daily. From nursery to kindergarten, classes are led by native-speaking English and Mandarin teachers, giving children equal exposure to both languages.

• Immersion Approach: Children learn through storytelling, play, music, science, and hands-on exploration in both languages, building natural fluency and confidence.
• Why It Stands Out: Dual-language teachers in every class! Curriculum aligned with Singapore’s KCF and UK’s EYFS.

British Council Pre-School Singapore, contact@britishcouncil.org.sg, www.britishcouncil.org.sg

BILINGUAL PRESCHOOL: ELFA Chinese Preschool (Learn Mandarin Throough Storytelling, Speech, Drama, More)

At ELFA Preschool, kids dive into Mandarin through a fun, story-based approach that makes language learning feel natural and exciting. From as young as infancy all the way to Kindergarten 2, children build strong speaking and reading skills in Chinese while learning important values along the way. The programme follows Singapore’s MOE guidelines, and it really works—100% of ELFA’s K2 students passed the Youth Chinese Test (YCT) Level II, showing they’re confident Mandarin speakers.

What makes ELFA stand out is its immersive Mandarin environment and a curriculum created by early childhood experts from both Singapore and China. Learning goes beyond just books—kids explore creative art, Chinese speech & drama, and even higher-order thinking maths, all taught in Mandarin. It’s hands-on, engaging, and packed with opportunities for self-expression. ELFA’s holistic approach means children not only build strong academic skills, but also grow in creativity, confidence, and social-emotional development.

• Immersion Approach: Bilingual curriculum with an emphasis on Mandarin instruction through storytelling, speech & drama, arts, and STEAM learning.

• Why It Stands Out: Aimed at building strong Mandarin foundations while ensuring English literacy readiness for primary school.

ELFA Chinese Preschool, +65 6881 8818, enquiry@elfa.com.sg, www.elfa.com.sg

BILINGUAL PRESCHOOL: My Learning Haven (Offering A Language Playroom For Early Years)

If you’re looking for a boutique preschool that offers personalized care and bilingual teaching, My Learning Haven stands out for its small class sizes and cozy, homely environments. At the heart of language learning is joy—children need to develop a love for a language before gaining confidence in speaking, reading, and writing it. That’s exactly what this bilingual learning environment provides. In the Language Playroom, children are welcomed into warm and engaging English and Mandarin sessions, where they are encouraged to express themselves, communicate their feelings, build focus, and work confidently in group settings. It’s a nurturing space designed to make language learning natural, enjoyable, and meaningful.

• Immersion Approach: Bilingual education delivered through the Jolly Phonics system for English and the NTU Confucius Institute for Mandarin.

• Why It Stands Out: A fresh, play-based preschool model that merges Nordic learning values with Singapore’s bilingual goals.

My Learning Haven, +65 9852 5706, info@mylearninghaven.com, www.mylearninghaven.com

BILINGUAL NURSERY AND PRE-SCHOOL: Alphabet Playhouse (Little Lotus Programme For Mandarin And Chinese Culture)

Being bilingual is a lifelong advantage—so why not start early? At Alphabet Playhouse, the “Little Lotus” programme introduces young learners to Mandarin and Chinese culture through fun, age-appropriate experiences. Children explore the language alongside traditional festivals, stories, and customs, building a strong foundation before entering primary school. The programme also integrates music, movement, and art, making lessons engaging and meaningful. With this early exposure, children grow more confident and familiar with Mandarin in a natural, enjoyable way that encourages participation and sparks curiosity.

Alphabet Playhouse, 16 Dublin Road Singapore 239805, enquiry@alphabetplayhouse.com.sg, https://www.alphabetplayhouse.com.sg/programmes/signature-programmes/little-lotus/

BILINGUAL PRE-SCHOOL: LeClare Singapore (Future Ready Curriculum)

At LeClare Preschool, the Integrated-Inquiry approach encourages children to ask questions and share their ideas while exploring a unit of inquiry each term in both English and Mandarin. Through pre-selected themes and central questions, learning is hands-on and cross-disciplinary, combining language, numeracy, motor skills, social-emotional, and cognitive development in meaningful activities. This flexible, child-led approach adapts to children’s interests and questions, making learning relevant and engaging. By making their thinking visible, LeClare fosters reflective, critical learners who develop a deep, transferable understanding across subjects.

LeClare Preschool, Singapore Conference Hall, 7 Shenton Way #01-02, Singapore 068810, info@leclare.edu.sg, https://leclare.edu.sg/contact-us/

BILINGUAL PRESCHOOL: Mulberry Learning Chinese Preschool (Immersion Program)

Mulberry Learning’s Chinese Preschool offers a unique immersion programme designed for children aged 18 months to 6 years. Emphasising Mandarin, especially in the early years, the curriculum integrates Chinese language into daily routines, enhancing vocabulary and cultural understanding. Children engage in activities like traditional poetry, calligraphy, and idioms, fostering a deep connection to Chinese heritage. The programme also incorporates Mulberry Learning’s award-winning iDevelop/iExplore/iExperience/iLearn model, blending Reggio-inspired Project Inquiry™ and Habits of Mind™ frameworks. This holistic approach ensures that children develop strong language skills, critical thinking, and moral values, preparing them for future academic success.

• Immersion Approach: English–Mandarin programme grounded in Reggio Emilia, Habits of Mind™, and Multiple Intelligences.

• Why It Stands Out: Innovative bilingual curriculum with a strong focus on cognitive development, curiosity, and 21st-century learning.

Mulberry Learning, +65 6653 8082, enquiry@mulberrylearning.com, https://mulberrylearning.com/programmes/chinese-preschool/

BILINGUAL PRESCHOOL: Little Skool-House (Teachers With Strong Bilingual Training)

Little Skool-House is known for its strong and effective bilingual curriculum, with 93% of its students achieving high proficiency in both English and Mandarin. The programme is carefully designed to provide children with a strong foundation in each language, preparing them well for Singapore’s primary school system. What makes it stand out is the immersive approach—children learn English and Mandarin separately in dedicated sessions, allowing them to build confidence and fluency in both languages without confusion.

Teachers at Little Skool-House undergo specialised training to deliver bilingual lessons that are engaging, clear, and age-appropriate. Through daily conversations, storytelling, and discussions that evolve from simple to more complex ideas, children gradually develop the ability to express themselves fluently, both orally and in writing. The curriculum nurtures confident, thoughtful learners who not only understand both languages but can use them effectively across different contexts. It’s a proven formula for early language success in Singapore.

• Immersion Approach: Structured bilingual programme integrating both English and Mandarin throughout daily routines and thematic learning.

• Why It Stands Out: Award-winning language programmes endorsed by ECDA and used in some government-affiliated preschools.

Little Skool-House, +65 6509 7880, info@littleskoolhouse.com, www.littleskoolhouse.com

MORE BILINGUAL PRESCHOOLS IN SINGAPORE:

More Nurseries / Pre-Schools / Kindergartens Offering Bilingual Education In Singapore:

• BlueHouse Singapore - Offers Bilingual English and Mandarin education

• Blue Lion Preschool - Bilingual English and Chinese Preschool (Contemplative Buddhist Approach\

• Brainfit Singapore - Immersive English And Mandarin Kindergarten

• Children's Cover Preschool - Offers Bilingual English and Mandarin education

• LeClare Preschool - Offers Bilingual English and Mandarin education

• Brainfit Singapore - Immersive English And Mandarin Kindergarten

• Little Paddington Preschool - Mandarin immersion programme

• Lorna Whiston - Chinese/English Bilingual Programme

• Primus Schoolhouse: Chinese and English bilingual programme

• Odyssey – The Global Preschool: Chinese Immersion programme

• Shaws Preschool: Bilingual Mandarin-English curriculum With Many Locations

More International Schools Offering Bilingual Education For Preschool / Kindergarten In Singapore:

• Hillside World Academy (HWA): Features a Chinese-English immersion programme, with additional support for students’ mother tongues.

• Holland International School: Offers Dutch, Mandarin, and English opportunities.

• International French School: Provides a French-English bilingual programme along with language support, all at an affordable tuition rate.

• Swiss School Singapore: Delivers bilingual education in either German-English or French-English tracks.

• The Perse School: Offers Mandarin and English opportunities.

• St. Joseph’s Institution International: Offers Mandarin and English opportunities.