**Seletar Preschool License Revoked for Inappropriate Child Management; 3 Employees Under Investigation**
Singapore’s GU+MMI Smart Kids preschool, located at 9 Jalan Jarak in Seletar Hills Estate, has been at the center of a concerning investigation. The Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA) announced on Friday, Jan 24, that the school’s license has been revoked due to multiple violations of regulations. Additionally, three employees from the preschool are currently under police investigation and have been prohibited from working in the preschool sector.
**Allegations Uncovered**
The disturbing events came to light when a concerned parent and the school separately reported incidents to the ECDA on Feb 26, 2024. Allegations included inappropriate child management practices that violated the Early Childhood Development Centres (ECDC) Regulations. This prompted a thorough investigation by the ECDA, involving unannounced visits, CCTV footage reviews, staff and parent interviews, and record verification.
**Parental Outrage**
One parent revealed that her three-year-old son was subjected to harsh treatment in a dark room, captured on CCTV footage. The child described this punishment as a response to misbehavior, raising serious concerns about the school’s management. Another parent, Mr. Gerard, shared his son’s distressing experience after the child mismanagement incident was disclosed by the preschool. The revelation of dark room confinement shocked the family, leading to the immediate suspension and subsequent termination of the implicated teachers.
**Preschool’s Failures**
ECDA’s investigation exposed the preschool’s failure to uphold child-safe policies and ensure the well-being of their students. The three staff members involved in the misconduct were found to have violated regulations prohibiting corporal punishment and harsh responses towards children. Consequently, the preschool’s license was revoked on Jan 2, 2025, following careful consideration of all aspects of the case.
**ECDA’s Response**
In response to these egregious violations, ECDA emphasized the importance of maintaining a safe environment for early childhood care and education. They reiterated the necessity for preschool operators to establish and enforce child-safe policies effectively. Moving forward, ECDA remains committed to upholding regulatory requirements and taking swift action against any breaches to safeguard children in Singapore’s preschools.
**The Human Impact**
As a parent, the thought of entrusting your child to a preschool for their early education and care is a profound decision. The recent events at GU+MMI Smart Kids serve as a stark reminder of the responsibility that educators hold in nurturing and protecting our children. It is crucial for parents to maintain open communication with their children and stay vigilant for any signs of distress or unusual behavior. Additionally, ensuring that preschools adhere to stringent safety protocols is essential to guaranteeing a secure environment for all children. Through collective efforts and stringent oversight, we can strive to prevent such incidents and prioritize the well-being of our little ones.
