MY KINDERGARTEN IS A FIRE STATION : SITUATING AN EDUCATIONAL AGENDA

Abstract

This Thesis begins by examining the state of kindergartens in Singapore. Upon a visit to one of the kindergartens at Gems Montessori Learning Centre, I realized that children have been allowed to occupy our in-between and leftover spaces; void decks and refurbished private houses. Kindergartens are hardly specifically designed for children. Gems Montessori Learning Centre is one such example of a preschool located at a shopspace at the foot of a HDB flat. This kindergarten includes a dangerous spiral staircase that saves space but sacrifices headroom, cramped tables and chairs, and insufficient space for children to do anything else but work on their assigned task and to have their snack. The architecture of kindergartens in Singapore is inadequately developed. Apart from the use of 2D graphics and bold colours that visually announce its function as a kindergarten, there is little about a kindergarten and its environment that is adequate for a child’s use. A new repertoire of architectural techniques could be applied to children’s living spaces in order to meet the needs of a fast growing and learning child. In summary, this thesis will endeavor to provide a suitable environment for children; a space in which they are able to develop all of their mind, body and spirit.