Government Primary Schools nationwide began the preschool learning session on Monday. This year, a total of 116 government primary schools in the country offer pre-school classes for 2025. A total of 2,755 5-year-old children have registered to pre-school this year. Of the total, 1,431 are boys are 1,324 are girls.
In preparation to help children to adapt to the school environment, the Ministry of Education through the Early Childhood Education (ECE) Unit, Department of Schools implemented several initiatives including the Pre-school Orientation Programme for New Preschool Children in 2025, the Staggered Entry and Registration Programme for Preschool Children as well as the Preschool Assistant Teacher Volunteer Programme 2025.
A total of 28 preschool students began their educational journey at Beribi Telanai Primary School as the 2025 school session commenced Monday.
Principal Isma Hidayyati binti Haji Ismail shared with the Bulletin that extensive preparations were made to ensure a smooth transition for the young learners. “Alhamdulillah, we have 28 preschool students registered this year. Our team has worked hard to provide a conducive and welcoming environment for them,” she said.
As part of the preparations, an orientation session was conducted over two days last year to help preschoolers adapt to the school setting. “During the orientation, the students enjoyed being in class with their friends, giving them a chance to get familiar with the environment,” the principal noted.
Preschool teachers have also gone the extra mile to beautify classrooms, ensuring they are both safe and fully equipped with the necessary facilities. “Fun activities were prepared to welcome the students on their first day, and the teachers are ready to support them both mentally and physically,” she added.
This year also marks a significant milestone for the school, as it launches the Simpur Pilot Programme for the first time, catering to 12 four-year-old students.
The principal expressed optimism for the school year ahead and confidence in the team’s dedication to providing a nurturing start to education for the young learners.
Meanwhile, Sekolah Rendah Sultan Umar Ali Saifuddin Muara also welcomed 30 new students.
The school’s headmistress Dayangku Normawatie binti Pengiran Haji Ibrahim said that to ensure that students are well-prepared and comfortable, they conducted a three-day orientation last November with parents and guardians. “The school’s preparation in welcoming students involves several important aspects to ensure a safe learning environment that supports child development and ease of adapting to a new environment,” she added.
According to the amendment to the Compulsory Education Act, Chapter 211, which was implemented in 2024, children who reach the age of 5 are required to attend school, particularly those who are citizens and residents of Brunei Darussalam. For children who reach the age of 5 on 31 December, it is mandatory to register for preschool admission starting at the beginning of the following year. Children who have not yet had the opportunity to register are still allowed to register in their respective primary schools.- Fadley Faisal & James Kon