Home Knowledge Singapore Investments in Singapore Guide to Starting an Early Childhood Development Centre in Singapore
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Types of ECDC Licences |
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There are three (3) classes of ECDC licences: A, B and C. Operators may apply for the class(es) of license according to the types of services that wish to provide, but can only apply for and operate one of the following class(es) of licence(s):- (a) Class A only; (b) Class B only; (c) Class C only; (d) Class A and B only; or (e) Class A and C only. Refer below for the relevant provisions of the respective class(es) of licence:
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In addition, children must not be in an ECDC for more than 24 hours continuously. |
2. |
Fundamental Procedures and Requirements of Establishing an ECDC |
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(1) |
A detailed plan Before deciding to establish the ECDC, the operators should think through and ensure that they have understood what they are getting into. Review the legislative requirements as per the class(es) of license they are going apply. There are some other important things that need to complete so that the new business remains a profitable and gainful entity. These tasks are: (a) Conducting a cost analysis. The operators may require a financial consultant to do an initial assessment and financial analysis including tax implication and costing of the business; and (b) Visiting the industry players who have been there done that and to assess the viability of the business. |
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(2) |
Incorporate the business When they have chosen to move ahead, it is essential to first incorporate the business venture. The most appropriate legal structure for this objective is a private limited company in Singapore. This is due to the incorporation of such a company is comparatively simple and fast process, even though specific legal criteria pertain. |
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(3) |
Finding suitable premises Before applying to ECDA for a license, the operators need to choose a suitable premise that are approved by the relevant agencies as follows:-
Besides, the following documents are to be submitted as part of the application. ECDCs must attain the required approvals and comply with the requirements of the relevant governing agencies:-
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(4) |
Employing the workforce The staff deployment in an ECDC is crucial. An ECDC must employ staff who meet the basic qualifications and are suitable in terms of age, experience, health, knowledge and disposition within a preschool setting. The minimum staffing requirements must be met during the application phase. All centre staff, including programme (who work at the ECDC for the care and education of children) and non-programme staff (who work at the ECDC in operational or administrative roles not directly related to the care and education of children), must be registered and approved by ECDA by the time the centre is licensed and commences operation. |
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(5) |
Administration, Record Keeping and Standard Operating Procedures Having good governance and administration is important for ECDCs. Relevant documentation, record keeping and Standard Operating Procedures (“SOP”) must be maintained and up-to-date. The following documents must be ready during the application phase. All information must be available upon request during the officer’s visit:
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(6) |
Pre-School Learning Experience The centre must have a philosophy on which the programme is based, and the interest of the child must be central to the centre’s philosophy. Also, the centre must have a programme plan that supports and facilitate the learning and developmental needs of all children. In addition, centre’s learning environment should also meet the requirements as prescribed in the guidelines of ECDA. |
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(7) |
Submit an application for ECDC licenses Upon completion of the above preparations, an application for a relevant licence can be filed with ECDA, according to the types of services to be provided. The processing time to process a new licence application is 14 working days upon receiving a complete set of documents which meet the ECDA’s requirements, and the licensee having met all regulatory requirements during the site visit, whichever is the latest. |
Kaizen suggests you to consult with professional advisors before the proposals coming into effect. Kaizen Singapore office is able to provide clients with the ECDC licence application and consultancy services, please consult our professional consultant. |
Disclaimer All information in this article is only for the purpose of information sharing, instead of professional suggestion. Kaizen will not assume any responsibility for loss or damage. |