Frequently Asked Questions

Our Philosophy & Approach

What is Laureum’s philosophy?

At Laureum, we believe childhood should be honoured — not rushed — while still preparing children meaningfully for formal schooling.

Our approach is grounded in inquiry-based, play-led learning, guided by highly qualified educators who intentionally weave literacy, numeracy and bilingual development into children’s everyday explorations. Learning is relationship-based, emotionally attuned, and rooted in real-world experiences — primarily outdoors.

We see children as capable, curious and competent learners who deserve respect, autonomy and joy in their learning.

How is Laureum different from other programmes?

1) Many programmes focus on either academics or play. At Laureum, we integrate both -- intentionally.

Rather than relying on worksheets, rote learning or rigid schedules, we design learning journeys that arise from children’s questions and interests. Academic skills are developed through meaningful contexts, problem-solving and inquiry, supported by educators who deeply understand child development and inquiry learning.

2) We operate outdoors, using Singapore’s natural and community spaces as living classrooms -- we're a school without walls.

3) We work within a small ratio, to afford every child the necessary attention and a deep understanding of his/her interests and needs.

Is this a play-based programme or an academic one?

Both -- by design.
Play is the medium through which deep learning happens. Within play and inquiry, children develop:

• Early literacy and numeracy

• Language skills in English and Mandarin

• Thinking, planning and reflection

• Social and emotional regulation

This approach supports long-term learning, not short-term performance.

Why Outdoors & Nature Matter

Why does Laureum prioritise outdoor learning?

Outdoor environments offer rich, complex and authentic learning opportunities that indoor spaces simply cannot provide.
When children learn outdoors, they:

• Move their bodies freely and build physical confidence

• Engage all their senses

• Collaborate, negotiate and problem-solve naturally

• Develop resilience, adaptability and self-regulation

• Connect learning to the real world
  

Nature invites curiosity, wonder and deep engagement — the foundations of lifelong learning.

Are the outdoors safe?

Yes -- and safety is taken seriously.
All outdoor experiences are carefully planned, risk-assessed and supervised by experienced educators. Rather than eliminating risk entirely, we guide children to understand and manage developmentally-appropriate risk safely -- an essential life skill.

Children learn to assess situations, make informed decisions and care for themselves and others.

Educators & Quality

Who are the educators at Laureum?

Our programmes are led by educators with Master’s degrees in Early Childhood Education, strong research backgrounds, and deep experience in inquiry-based and play-led pedagogy.

We intentionally keep group sizes small and adult-to-child ratios low (Foundations 1:6, Horizons 1:7), allowing educators to know each child deeply and respond to them thoughtfully.

Quality education begins with quality educators — and this is non-negotiable at Laureum.

How do you support children who are slower-to-warm, or need more support?

We believe relationships come first.

Educators take time to build trust, understand each child’s temperament, and create emotionally safe spaces where children feel seen and supported. Learning experiences are adapted to meet children where they are, allowing them to grow in confidence at their own pace and with agency.

Many children who begin quietly often flourish in our calm, respectful environment.

Bilingual Learning

How is bilingual learning approached at Laureum?

English and Mandarin are woven organically into daily experiences, conversations and inquiry journeys.

Rather than isolated language drills, children experience language as a meaningful tool for communication, expression and thinking. This supports both confidence and long-term language acquisition.

School Readiness & Transition

How does Laureum prepare children for formal school?

We focus on formal school readiness, not early academic pressure.

Children develop:

• Strong literacy and numeracy foundations

• Language confidence in English and Mandarin

• Self-regulation, focus and perseverance

• Independence, problem-solving and adaptability

These are skills children need to thrive, not just cope, in formal school.

Practical Questions

What happens on rainy days?

Laureum is a rain-or-shine programme.

• Light rain or drizzle: Children wear raincoats and continue exploring, observing and experiencing nature in different conditions.

• Heavy rain or lightning: We remain in sheltered outdoor areas or covered spaces, adapting activities while staying connected to the environment.
  

Children learn that nature changes — and that learning continues in all conditions.

Is food provided?

Food is not provided but we invite all children to pack along a nut-free healthy snack, for a snack break at 10am.

What should my child wear?

Children should arrive in comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor exploration.

We recommend:

• Breathable clothes that allow movement (long pants and a t-shirt)

• Covered shoes suitable for walking and climbing

• Pack along a hat, water bottle, snack, light raincoat in a small backpack
  

We will provide a detailed welcome guide upon enrolment.

What are the programme hours and term dates?

Our programmes currently run:
Monday to Friday, 8:30am – 12:30pm

This timing allows children to learn during quieter weekday mornings when outdoor spaces are calm and most conducive for exploration.

Our terms line up with the MOE academic calendar -- 4 terms a year, 10-weeks per term.

2026
Soft Launch: February 9 - March 6
Term 2: March 23 - May 29
Term 3: June 29 - September 4
Term 4: September 14 - November 20

Optional holiday camps will take place during term breaks - stay tuned for updates on these!

Enrolment & Soft Launch

What is the February soft launch trial?

Our February complimentary soft launch offers families the opportunity to experience Laureum’s approach in a small-group, trial format before deciding on full enrolment.

This allows:

• Children to ease in gradually

• Parents to observe our philosophy in action and assess the degree of alignment with their values

• Educators to build strong relationships with children from the start
  

More details on our soft launch can be found here.

What are the first steps to enroll?

We invite families to have a conversation with our team to ensure alignment, and to receive further details about trial opportunities and enrolment. To reach us:

1. Submit an enquiry through our website

2. Drop us a Whatsapp message at 9XXXXXXX

3. Email us at wonder@laureumcollective.com

We prioritise shared values and philosophy, as this partnership is key to a child’s experience.

Is Laureum the right fit for my family?

Laureum is best suited for families who:

• Value outdoor play, inquiry and childhood joy

• Want strong learning outcomes without pressure

• Trust highly qualified educators

• Believe children learn best through relationships and real-world experiences

If this resonates with you, we would love to begin a conversation.