Average Daily Non-contact Time for Educators in Preschools

Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song asked the Minister for Social and Family Development (a) whether the Ministry has data on the current average daily non-contact time for educators in preschools under the Anchor Operator and Partner Operator schemes; (b) when was the teacher-child ratio last adjusted; (c) whether the Ministry will review the current ratio; and (d) whether the Ministry will consider a tiered staffing model with distinct ratios for early childhood educators and ancillary care assistants.

The Early Childhood Development Agency does not have data on the average daily non-contact time for educators in preschools.

When the Early Childhood Development Centres Act was enacted in 2017, minimum requirements for staff-to-child ratio for preschools were reviewed to ensure the safety and well-being of children. These ratios are calibrated based on the programme level of children, type of programme hours and the qualifications of staff. For example, one qualified early years educator is required for every eight children at the Playgroup level during programme hours. During non-programme hours, or if an additional assistant early years educator is deployed during programme hours, this can increase to 12 children.

Preschools can and do operate with more than the minimum staff requirement to cater to their programming objectives and manpower deployment needs, such as staff leave and training. On top of staff-to-child ratios, preschools may also deploy additional non-certified staff to assist certified educators with setting classroom routines, and the daily care and supervision of children.