People with disabilities can work as teaching staff in preschools. Ms Noorlinda Binte Mohamed Yatim, principal of PCF Sparkletots Preschool @ Hong Kah North Blk 419, demonstrated this belief by hiring Ms Tan Boon Ching, who has a mild intellectual disability, as an educator aide.
“As our teachers have experience working with children with diverse needs, they were receptive when Ms Tan joined the team in April 2023,” says Ms Noorlinda.
Their welcoming attitude quickly allayed any apprehension Ms Tan might have had about fitting in. “Principal Noorlinda and the educators regularly check in on me, include me in activities and outings, and provide helpful updates about the children,” she says.
This supportive environment has allowed her to flourish at work.
Ms Tan Boon Ching engages positively with children during small-group activities.
A BIG HELP TO TEACHERS AND CHILDREN
Ms Tan is an asset to both educators and children. Ms Noorlinda elaborates, “She helps alleviate workload pressures and ensure smooth operations. Her empathetic nature, patience and proactive approach have enabled her to forge meaningful bonds with the children, particularly those with additional needs.”
“I love interacting with children. Their enthusiasm and curiosity bring me immense joy,” says Ms Tan. Some of her favourite activities with the children include participating in counting and alphabet games, playing with building blocks and doing art projects.
In preparation for the job, Ms Tan enrolled in the Educator Aide Training (ECAT) programme — a six-month full-time course run by Presbyterian Community Services (PCS) for persons with mild intellectual disabilities who wish to work in childcare.
ECAT equips trainees with the skills and knowledge to perform caregiving routines, assist with class activities, prepare teaching aids and handle simple administrative work. Structured training is provided through formal lessons and hands-on internship at a PCS centre.
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