White Lodge: early learning know-how & preschool tips
JAYNE NADARAJOO of White Lodge and CATE HEY of SACAC Counselling turned their calling to coach and counsel the youth of today into vocations. Read on to discover how you can help your child navigate the crucial, often challenging, early learning and teen years.
White Lodge
www.whitelodge.com.sg LOCATIONS Bukit Timah 39 Linden Drive, Tel: 6468 8846. Central North 45 Burghley Drive Block A, #01-01/2/3, Tel: 6280 7388. Loewen Gardens 75E Loewen Road, Tel: 6475 7262. East Coast 46 East Coast Road, #01-03 East Gate, Tel: 6440 6690. Upper Bukit Timah 1 Jalan Siap, Tel: 6314 5481. West Coast 9 South Buona Vista Road, Tel: 6779 8465.
Business established: 12 years
Niche: Preschool education and enrichment.
When their son turned three years of age, Jayne Nadarajoo and her husband Ganesh Kanapathy decided to open White Lodge, a preschool built on the cornerstone of everything they wanted for their own child. Primarily, a curriculum and environment which would set a strong foundation for a bright future, fond memories, a love for learning and most importantly, develop his inquisitive and exploratory mind to dare to take risks. After more than a decade, White Lodge has grown into a global community of four kindergartens and two activity centres in Singapore, plus one kindergarten in Hanoi, Vietnam.
TF: What sets your business apart from other early learning centres?
JN: White Lodge is all about people coming together. We focus on a hands-on approach and are very much a family. One of our former students once remarked, "White Lodge is snugly". I think that sums
us up!
JN: Our students are empowered to become more independent by being taught not everything will be done for them. This encourages them to explore, investigate and make their own decisions, while having fun.
Our teachers research individual units of enquiry and teach using a variety of mediums - books, newspaper articles, resources, computers and field trips - to bring lessons to life. And our parents are involved in all school activities and special events. This way, they can observe our teaching methods and remain involved. A parent may be a guest speaker at an event, organise activities or volunteer. Another way we encourage quality interaction is through our Parent and Child Programme. Tots aged six to 30 months gain early exposure to a social setting, while new parents and newcomers to Singapore meet other mums and dads.
TF: How does preschool prepare a child for primary education?
JN: Preschool builds a strong foundation for your child's future education and success in life. The experiences and skills developed in their early years impact your child's formal school years, helping them become lifelong learners with a positive disposition towards learning and enquiry.
TF: Any future plans?
JN: To offer excellent education opportunities for children with special needs. We also plan to open a family centre, which will useful information on health, education, nutrition and wellbeing.
Choosing a preschool ...
- Find out whether it has a good reputation and a welcoming, nurturing, clean and safe environment.
- Ensure the curriculum is stimulating, meets your child's learning style and prepares them
for the next school placement.
- Meet with teachers to ensure they're qualified and caring.
- Ensure the school encourages parental involvement.
- Trust your instincts - you know your child best.
Posted on Jun 2011
