POP 3.0: A New Chapter for Little Olive Tree Preschools

In the competitive landscape of early childhood education in Singapore, where government-backed childcare promises affordability and accessibility, private preschools face an uphill battle for survival. For Little Olive Tree Preschools, the journey has been one of faith, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to nurturing young lives with truth, beauty, and goodness.

Our story began in 1974 when our first preschool was established under Presbyterian Community Services to meet the growing demand for quality early years education. Back then, our community-based preschools were known as Grow and Glow—a name that embodied our vision for children to flourish and radiate joy. For decades, we served families with dedication, building a legacy of care and excellence.

In 2021, Presbyterian Preschool Services was incorporated as a standalone entity so that we could focus fully on our使命 (mission) in early childhood education. This move allowed us to strengthen our work in preschools, raise the quality of care and learning, and build the right structures to support both children and educators more effectively. PPS was officially incorporated on 17 August 2021. With this transition came a fresh identity: Little Olive Tree. The name draws inspiration from the Bible, where the flowering olive tree symbolises beauty, abundance, and fruitfulness. It reflects our deepest hope—that Little Olive Tree Preschools will be safe spaces where children grow, flourish, and remain rooted in the values and lessons we impart during their formative years.

Navigating Unprecedented Challenges

The years following our incorporation have been marked by significant challenges. The Early Childhood Development Agency's (ECDA) expansion of government preschools brought with it lower school fees and higher educator salaries, creating a formidable competitive environment. Many smaller private preschools were forced to close their doors, and we were not immune. We witnessed the heartbreaking closure of two of our centres.

With the closure of two centres, we found ourselves asking important questions about sustainability and calling. The work of nurturing children in truth, beauty, and goodness is precious — and it is also extremely challenging. We stand alongside other faith-based providers who share this mission, even as we navigate a competitive environment and the reality of a declining birth rate. This season reminded us that to continue well, we must grow stronger, collaborate wisely, and remain anchored in our purpose.

Strengthening Our Mission: Applying for POP 3.0

To strengthen our ability to serve families well, we applied for the Partner Operator Scheme 3.0 (POP 3.0) when ECDA opened applications. This was not a leap into the unknown, but a necessary and thoughtful step — knowing it would bring added support, along with greater responsibility and accountability.

We are deeply grateful that 12 of our Little Olive Tree preschools have been awarded POP 3.0 status.

This is a meaningful milestone — not simply because of the funding, but because it affirms the heart, dedication, and professionalism of our team. From classrooms to kitchens, from principal's offices to HQ, every role mattered.

Above all, we thank God. His grace has carried us from the very beginning, and His favour has opened this door.

With POP 3.0, we step forward with humility and confidence — entrusted with more, so that we may serve children and families even better, and remain faithful to the mission He has given us.

A Prayer and a Promise

Each day, we give thanks for this favour from God — a gift for the children, the families, and for Singapore. Our journey has not been simple; it has stretched us, refined us, and taught us to depend on grace.

We believe God has called us to this work, and the POP 3.0 appointment is a quiet reassurance of His faithfulness and guidance. May we continue to walk humbly, serve wholeheartedly, and honour Him in all we do.