Government primary schools nationwide kicked off preschool learning sessions yesterday.
There are 116 schools offering pre-school classes this year, which also marks the beginning of compulsory schooling for five-year-old children.
Some 2,869 five-year-olds – 1,496 boys and 1,373 girls – have registered for pre-school this year.
Raja Isteri Fatimah Primary School headmistress Josephine Tan Yen Nee, along with teacher Aini binti Haji Seruji and teaching assistants from Raja Isteri Girls High School (STPRI), welcomed 12 children to its pre-school class.
Aini said, “As the class teacher, I prepared the conducive class, labelling names for the tables and chairs, shoe racks, bags, baskets for the stationery and so on.”
She added, “Activities include introducing themselves; learning about the school environment, such as the location and function of the canteen, staffroom, library and toilets; singing; storytelling; arts and crafts; as well as a mini sports day.”
Khadijahwati binti Haji Kamsol, who sent her daughter Nur Raihanna Medina binti Mohd Rusydi to the preschool class, said, “My daughter studied in kindergarten before preschool, so she is comfortable with the new school environment as well as meeting new people. I hope she will do well.”
In terms of preparation, she said, “Besides school materials, parents must also prepare children mentality and physically to ensure satisfactory results.” – James Kon
