Finnish-Inspired Preschool Launches in Singapore with Focus on Wellbeing and Inclusive Learning

HEI Schools Singapore has officially launched as the first Finnish-inspired HEI preschool in Singapore, bringing a research-based educational approach that prioritizes children’s emotional wellbeing alongside academic development.

Founded by veteran educator Jayne Nadarajoo in partnership with HEI Schools Global (co-founded by the University of Helsinki), the preschool introduces an educational model that differs from many traditional approaches available in Singapore. For parents choosing the right preschool in Singapore, this represents a new option focused on play-centered, wellbeing-focused practices.

Who Founded HEI Schools Singapore

Jayne Nadarajoo brings over 26 years of experience in early childhood and international education. She’s the founding educator behind White Lodge Preschools, Avondale Grammar School, and Melbourne International School.

Throughout her career, she has built learning environments described as nurturing, inclusive, and future-ready, supporting both academic readiness and emotional wellbeing. Her schools have guided thousands of children into local, international, and mainstream schools, with alumni going on to excel academically and professionally.

The Finnish Educational Approach

HEI Schools Singapore combines Jayne Nadarajoo’s extensive leadership experience with the Finnish education model developed by HEI Schools Global. The approach is rooted in research-based, play-centered, and wellbeing-focused practices.

The HEI model emphasizes:

• Emotional safety as a foundation for learning
• Curiosity-driven learning where children explore concepts through play
• Holistic child development across emotional, social, and cognitive domains

The preschool offers an inclusive learning environment where children learn together, developing confidence, empathy, and strong foundations for primary education.

Strong Emphasis on Neurodiversity

Drawing on best practices from Finnish research and Jayne’s specific work in neurodiversity and personalized education, HEI Schools Singapore places strong emphasis on child-centered learning, emotional wellbeing, compassion, and lifelong learning skills.

This inclusive approach means children with different learning styles and neurological profiles learn together rather than being separated. For parents of children who may not fit typical developmental patterns but don’t require specialized SPED school programs, this represents a genuinely different option in Singapore’s early childhood landscape.

Professional Development for Educators

As part of its social impact commitment in Singapore, HEI Schools Singapore will also support the professional development of early childhood educators beyond its own staff.

The school is providing access to specialized training, including:

• HEI Diploma
• Diploma in Neurodiversity Teaching and Learning

Better-trained educators benefit children across Singapore’s early childhood sector, not just those enrolled at HEI Schools.

What This Means for Singapore Families

HEI Schools Singapore aims to set a new benchmark for early childhood education in Singapore, offering a learning environment where children thrive emotionally, academically, socially, and creatively, and where teachers are empowered to nurture every child.

The Finnish educational model is globally recognized for its research-backed approach. Combined with Jayne Nadarajoo’s proven track record in Singapore and international education, this brings an established educational philosophy to the local context.

For families comparing international preschool options in Singapore, the Finnish-inspired approach joins existing models like Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and IB Primary Years Programme as another distinct educational philosophy.

How to Learn More

For admissions information, contact:

Kathy Bolouri
Email: [email protected]

Parents interested in learning more about HEI Schools Singapore’s approach can reach out directly for details on enrollment, location, fees, and program specifics.

Wei Chun

Founder & Editor

A Singapore parent writing the guide he wished he'd had — practical, calm, and grounded in what actually works.

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