The School
We learn a little from books and talking but we learn most from doing, outdoors, in the heart of nature. Real learning that covers breadth and depth and makes connections with what we learn in the classroom. That’s the Quayside Isle Preparatory School experience.
What could be more stimulating than a classroom outdoors where real-life applications take the ordinary and make them extraordinary! At QuIPS, we nurture by nature, using well-researched curriculum and making it come to life in the language of play and place. Simply because we know that every child deserves the best education from the start.
Sharon Solomon, Founder.
The School
We learn a little from books and talking but we learn most from doing, outdoors, in the heart of nature. Real learning that covers breadth and depth and makes connections with what we learn in the classroom. That’s the Quayside Isle Preparatory School experience.
What could be more stimulating than a classroom outdoors where real-life applications take the ordinary and make them extraordinary! At QuIPS, we nurture by nature, using well-researched curriculum and making it come to life in the language of play and place. Simply because we know that every child deserves the best education from the start.
Sharon Solomon, Founder.
- Kerry (Mother of Oliver)
- Melanie (Mother of Maya and Monty)
We love Quayside Isle!
Since enrolling in 2015, Harrison has grown so much on both an educational and social level. As parents, we are ecstatic to see this daily growth in both areas.
We feel that a very important part of living overseas is being immersed as much as possible in a new culture and learning. QuIPS promotes this by offering a diverse environment and well-rounded curriculum, which includes many important cultural aspects of Singapore.
Harrison’s thirst for knowledge is growing as quickly as he is and Quayside has done an amazing job of thoroughly encouraging his curiosity while giving him the freedom to observe, explore, and ask questions. We could not be happier with our decision to enrol our son at Quayside.
Since enrolling in 2015, Harrison has grown so much on both an educational and social level. As parents, we are ecstatic to see this daily growth in both areas.
We feel that a very important part of living overseas is being immersed as much as possible in a new culture and learning. QuIPS promotes this by offering a diverse environment and well-rounded curriculum, which includes many important cultural aspects of Singapore.
Harrison’s thirst for knowledge is growing as quickly as he is and Quayside has done an amazing job of thoroughly encouraging his curiosity while giving him the freedom to observe, explore, and ask questions. We could not be happier with our decision to enrol our son at Quayside.
Our daughter Annabelle (6) was at Quayside Isle Preparatory School for one year before graduating. She loved her time at QuIPS and still talks fondly of all her teachers there. She really enjoyed all the trips they made and the focus on discovering and learning through nature. She was very well prepared for the transition to a big school and has settled in well thanks to all the ground work and confidence QuIPS has nurtured her with.
Our experience at QuIPS has been very good. The teachers are great. They know every child and create a safe environment for the kids. The way new children are welcomed and accommodated is excellent. The weekly plans are good and we feel the children learn while having fun at the same time. Fieldtrips for Dragonflies are very good. QuIPS has a friendly and encouraging learning environment.
QuIPS is not too big, and the class sizes are just right. The teachers know the class and each child well. The programs are varied and include parent participation sessions.
We like that the children go out and explore what they have read / heard about in the classroom. We also like the focus on books and reading and the library program.
Compared with the previous school, QuIPS allows for much more dialogue between the children and teachers. The children are encouraged to think and then give their opinion, they are not just taught through a teacher’s monologue. We also think the library program is very good and perhaps different from most other schools.
I would recommend the School to others because of reasons mentioned above. We have already recommended to several persons, some whose kids started at the school after our (and others) recommendations.’
QuIPS is not too big, and the class sizes are just right. The teachers know the class and each child well. The programs are varied and include parent participation sessions.
We like that the children go out and explore what they have read / heard about in the classroom. We also like the focus on books and reading and the library program.
Compared with the previous school, QuIPS allows for much more dialogue between the children and teachers. The children are encouraged to think and then give their opinion, they are not just taught through a teacher’s monologue. We also think the library program is very good and perhaps different from most other schools.
I would recommend the School to others because of reasons mentioned above. We have already recommended to several persons, some whose kids started at the school after our (and others) recommendations.’
Since we met the staff at an Open Day event about the school, we immediately felt confident that QuIPS was the right environment for Ella. Our perception was confirmed by the enthusiasm Ella has always showed in going to school every day. The curriculum offered and the extra curriculum activities, together with the loving care of her teachers and the school team has not only inspired Ella, but also stimulated her intellectual and emotional development.
We really like the welcoming atmosphere and the lively learning environment at QuIPS. We believe there is a positive balance between the curriculum and the social and emotional development of the children. We particularly appreciate the open door policy. The teachers are always available to meet with us parents and always welcome any input we might have.
We will certainly recommend QuIPS for a thriving first experience with “the academical world”. The class sizes are very small and they ensure a very close relationship between each of the children and their teacher. The activities offered are exciting and meaningful for the children especially in such a multicultural environment.’
We really like the welcoming atmosphere and the lively learning environment at QuIPS. We believe there is a positive balance between the curriculum and the social and emotional development of the children. We particularly appreciate the open door policy. The teachers are always available to meet with us parents and always welcome any input we might have.
We will certainly recommend QuIPS for a thriving first experience with “the academical world”. The class sizes are very small and they ensure a very close relationship between each of the children and their teacher. The activities offered are exciting and meaningful for the children especially in such a multicultural environment.’
Magnus has had a very positive experience since starting at QuIPS. He had never attended any prior schooling and the adjustment went surprisingly smooth. We, as parents, have noticed tremendous development in his confidence and social skills ever since he joined QuIPS.
What we like most about the school is the location and the safe and friendly environment for Magnus. We also feel that the curriculum is very age appropriate and well administered by the teachers.
We feel Magnus has learnt a lot since starting QuIPS and we value how thorough the teaching is, as well as the patience and dedication of the teachers.
What we like most about the school is the location and the safe and friendly environment for Magnus. We also feel that the curriculum is very age appropriate and well administered by the teachers.
We feel Magnus has learnt a lot since starting QuIPS and we value how thorough the teaching is, as well as the patience and dedication of the teachers.
There’s no denying that the quality and selection of international schools on offer in Singapore is impressive and yet, choosing the right school for our daughter, Lana, was surprisingly more challenging than we had expected it would be.
The most essential thing for us therefore, was not what she would learn about, what curriculum she would follow and what developmental milestones she would hit but how she would learn and most of all, how much fun she would have in the process.
Quayside Isle Preparatory School’s focus on learning through exploration and discovery and the excellent teacher to pupil ratio that allows this approach and focus were key factors in our decision.
Just a few weeks into her time at Quayside Isle Prep, Lana was telling her Granny about the insect module they were studying in school and a recent trip to the Butterfly and Insect Kingdom. “So have you learned about spiders yet?” asked her granny, to which Lana replied: “Granny! A spider is NOT an insect! It is an arthropod!” There is plenty of evidence of how much she is learning but, in the process, she is definitely having fun, both inside and outside of the classroom. What more could we ask for at this age?
The most essential thing for us therefore, was not what she would learn about, what curriculum she would follow and what developmental milestones she would hit but how she would learn and most of all, how much fun she would have in the process.
Quayside Isle Preparatory School’s focus on learning through exploration and discovery and the excellent teacher to pupil ratio that allows this approach and focus were key factors in our decision.
Just a few weeks into her time at Quayside Isle Prep, Lana was telling her Granny about the insect module they were studying in school and a recent trip to the Butterfly and Insect Kingdom. “So have you learned about spiders yet?” asked her granny, to which Lana replied: “Granny! A spider is NOT an insect! It is an arthropod!” There is plenty of evidence of how much she is learning but, in the process, she is definitely having fun, both inside and outside of the classroom. What more could we ask for at this age?
Our children have loved being a part of QUIPS since the very first day the school opened and we are very happy they are there. QUIPS is a perfect fit for our family living on Sentosa. It was not even a question to keep them there until they go to school on the mainland.
The personal attention and care from all the staff and teachers as well as the wonderful friends they have made during their time at QUIPS is what we love the most about the school. The hugs and kisses from Ms Maureen and Ms Ester at the start and end of each day are what every kid needs.
As parents, we really appreciate the focus QUIPS makes on learning and respecting nature and our environment. The use of our beautiful surroundings on Sentosa is taken advantage of. What lucky kids.
The weekly updates from Ms Maureen and attached photos have been fantastic for us and the rest of our family living overseas to see how the kids are growing and developing. The fun activities and the joy in their faces is clear to everyone.
We would and do recommend QUIPS to any parents with children below 6 living on Sentosa.
The personal attention and care from all the staff and teachers as well as the wonderful friends they have made during their time at QUIPS is what we love the most about the school. The hugs and kisses from Ms Maureen and Ms Ester at the start and end of each day are what every kid needs.
As parents, we really appreciate the focus QUIPS makes on learning and respecting nature and our environment. The use of our beautiful surroundings on Sentosa is taken advantage of. What lucky kids.
The weekly updates from Ms Maureen and attached photos have been fantastic for us and the rest of our family living overseas to see how the kids are growing and developing. The fun activities and the joy in their faces is clear to everyone.
We would and do recommend QUIPS to any parents with children below 6 living on Sentosa.
Testimonials
- Kerry (Mother of Oliver)
Testimonials
- Melanie (Mother of Maya and Monty)
Testimonials
Testimonials
- Claire (Mother of Alice, Effie and Elliot)
Testimonials
We love Quayside Isle!
Since enrolling in 2015, Harrison has grown so much on both an educational and social level. As parents, we are ecstatic to see this daily growth in both areas.
We feel that a very important part of living overseas is being immersed as much as possible in a new culture and learning. QuIPS promotes this by offering a diverse environment and well-rounded curriculum, which includes many important cultural aspects of Singapore.
Since enrolling in 2015, Harrison has grown so much on both an educational and social level. As parents, we are ecstatic to see this daily growth in both areas.
We feel that a very important part of living overseas is being immersed as much as possible in a new culture and learning. QuIPS promotes this by offering a diverse environment and well-rounded curriculum, which includes many important cultural aspects of Singapore.
Morgan and John
( Parents of Harrison (3) )
( Parents of Harrison (3) )
Testimonials
Our daughter Annabelle (6) was at Quayside Isle Preparatory School for one year before graduating. She loved her time at QuIPS and still talks fondly of all her teachers there. She really enjoyed all the trips they made and the focus on discovering and learning through nature. She was very well prepared for the transition to a big school and has settled in well thanks to all the ground work and confidence QuIPS has nurtured her with.
Carley
(Mother of Henry (3) and Annabelle (5) )
(Mother of Henry (3) and Annabelle (5) )
Testimonials
Our experience at QuIPS has been very good. The teachers are great. They know every child and create a safe environment for the kids. The way new children are welcomed and accommodated is excellent. The weekly plans are good and we feel the children learn while having fun at the same time. Fieldtrips for Dragonflies are very good. QuIPS has a friendly and encouraging learning environment.
Christine and Norman
(Parents of Nora (2) and Victoria (4))
(Parents of Nora (2) and Victoria (4))
Testimonials
Since we met the staff at an Open Day event about the school, we immediately felt confident that QuIPS was the right environment for Ella. Our perception was confirmed by the enthusiasm Ella has always showed in going to school every day. The curriculum offered and the extra curriculum activities, together with the loving care of her teachers and the school team has not only inspired Ella, but also stimulated her intellectual and emotional development.
Leila and Owen
( Parents of Ella (4) )
( Parents of Ella (4) )
Testimonials
Magnus has had a very positive experience since starting at QuIPS. He had never attended any prior schooling and the adjustment went surprisingly smooth. We, as parents, have noticed tremendous development in his confidence and social skills ever since he joined QuIPS.
What we like most about the school is the location and the safe and friendly environment for Magnus. We also feel that the curriculum is very age appropriate and well administered by the teachers.
What we like most about the school is the location and the safe and friendly environment for Magnus. We also feel that the curriculum is very age appropriate and well administered by the teachers.
Parents of Magnus ( 3 )
Testimonials
There’s no denying that the quality and selection of international schools on offer in Singapore is impressive and yet, choosing the right school for our daughter, Lana, was surprisingly more challenging than we had expected it would be.
The most essential thing for us therefore, was not what she would learn about, what curriculum she would follow and what developmental milestones she would hit but how she would learn and most of all, how much fun she would have in the process.
The most essential thing for us therefore, was not what she would learn about, what curriculum she would follow and what developmental milestones she would hit but how she would learn and most of all, how much fun she would have in the process.
Natalie and Sam
(Parents of Lana (4) )
(Parents of Lana (4) )
Testimonials
Our children have loved being a part of QUIPS since the very first day the school opened and we are very happy they are there. QUIPS is a perfect fit for our family living on Sentosa. It was not even a question to keep them there until they go to school on the mainland.
John and Chris
(Parents of Caleb (4) and Eleuthera (4))
(Parents of Caleb (4) and Eleuthera (4))
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
School Information (General)
What is the minimum enrolment age at QuIPS?
When should I enrol my child at Quayside Isle Preparatory School?
My child is very advanced for her age. Can I enrol her in a higher grade even though she does not meet the minimum required age?
Can I tour the school before I enrol my child?
Absolutely! Please email info@quips.edu.sg or call 62357527 to arrange an appointment with our Director of Learning. In line with strict safeguarding policies and COVID19 regulations, no visitors will be allowed without a confirmed appointment.
How many students are there in a class and what is the student-teacher ratio?
We adopt a 6 to 1 ratio and classes are capped at 12 students with 2 teachers.
What qualifications do Quayside Isle Preparatory School teachers have?
All our teachers are professional educators, recognised by the Early Childhood Development Agency of Singapore (the regulatory body for the early childhood sector in Singapore). All our teachers are qualified Early Childhood educators with a wealth of knowledge and experience. QuIPS teachers come from different cultures adding to the vibrant school environment.
Will there be snacks/meals provided for my child?
Parents are advised to pack a light snack for their child such as biscuits, finger sandwiches or fruit. Lunch should be food your child enjoys and wants to eat. Snack and lunch are eaten in their respective classrooms, if not outdoors. Please inform the School if your child has specific dietary requirements or any food allergies. Peanuts are not allowed on the premises.
Is there a school bus service?
There is no school bus service. Most students scooter, walk or cycle to school.
What are the school's medical precautions?
QuIPS maintains strict procedures concerning the health and well-being of every child. These are indicated as reminders in a fortnightly newsletter and in line with the regulatory guidelines of Singapore’s Ministry of Health and the Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA). We have three staff members who are certified in Child First Aid (CFA).
How will I know which year group my child belongs to?
QuIPS follows the UK National Curriculum which is organized into blocks of years called ‘Key Stages’. Hence the terminology Early Years and Key Stage 1. The year groups have been aligned with the Early Years and Key Stage 1 of the UK National Curriculum. Children should turn the minimum age for the program during the academic year, which is our age cut-off date
School Fees
Is it possible to waive the Enrolment Fee?
My child will not be attending school for a few weeks as we are travelling. Can the school fees be pro-rated?
What are the procedures for withdrawing my child from the school?
We have to relocate due to the work arrangements. Can we withdraw after the withdrawal date?
Can I use funds in my Children Development Account (CDA - Baby Bonus) to pay for my child's kindergarten fees?
School Information (Academics)
How should I prepare my child (and me!) for their first day of school?
What is the best way to communicate with my child’s teacher?
How is Literacy taught at QuIPS?
Do the children do worksheets?
The mode of learning at QuIPS is very much through active play and engagement which draws on many of the senses. The more senses that are used in learning (where appropriate), the likelier a child is able to retain information, generalise and apply the learning. Worksheets (table top tasks) do take place but they do not form the basis of the learning journey. Table top tasks involving worksheets are used to reinforce the skills and concepts taught and to prepare children and are just one part of school readiness.
What is the school curriculum?
Steeped in beliefs that learning should br motivating, engaging and fun, the curriculum we use opens up a world of wonder for children where learning meets personal interests. At QuIPS we cover both breadth and depth in learning. We use the inquiry based International Early Years Curriculum UK (‘IEYC’) and the International Primary Curriculum UK (‘IPC’)
Will my child learn Mandarin?
The Mandarin classes at our school are language classes. This is an immersion program. Children will have 30-45 minute sessions with the Mandarin teacher and frequency is subject to grade level. The focus of these classes is for them to be comfortable with the fundamentals of the language such as greetings, basic vocabulary, and for the older classes, an introduction into strokes and basic high frequency characters. They will learn through games, play and song. For those wanting more, there are specific extra curricular activities in Mandarin.
Can I volunteer in my child’s class?
While we do not allow for parent volunteers in the classroom, there are volunteer opportunities for events and Library sessions at school that will help keep the bond with our learning community. Additionally, parents are often invited for Parent Share sessions in their child’s class. All these activities adhere to strict COVID19 regulations.
Will my child be able to transition into a bigger international school after QuIPS?
At QuIPS we prepare our young minds to take on their next challenge by providing a solid foundation. Our holistic approach to education in these formative years strikes the perfect balance between adult-led learning and learning through play, nature and self-discovery. Our program aids the transition process by adapting the learning journey each year so as to provide the children with exactly what they need at each developmental stage . We want our children to have a love of learning, form positive school relationships and all the necessary skills to take on their next step, be it at a local or international school! Our model works best when seen through completion of Key Stage 1, making every child ready for Primary 1 (Singapore), Year 3 (UK & Australia)), Grade 2 (US) and Key Stage 2. Our students have successfully transitioned to reputable international schools as well as local Singapore schools.
