SINGAPORE — The operator of a preschool in Tampines will be barred from applying for any new Early Childhood Development Centre licences, after a second breach of requirements in three months. 

The preschool, Metis Little Campus at The Tapestry condominium, abruptly shut on July 2 with only a day's notice given to parents.

Preschools are required to provide six months’ notice to parents and the Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA) before ceasing operations. 

The operator of Metis Little Campus is filing for bankruptcy and insolvency, ECDA told CNA on Thursday (July 4), adding that it has contacted all affected parents to assist with alternative preschool placements.

This is the operator's second preschool to close on short notice.

Its outlet in Redhill ceased operations on April 8 after being evicted by the landlord due to the school's rental arrears.

The centre had initially notified ECDA and affected parents on March 25 that it would cease operations on April 30.

However, the preschool was notified of the eviction notice on April 5, which took effect on April 8, said ECDA's spokesperson.

ECDA noted that preschools are required to provide six months’ notice before ceasing operations to give parents enough time to make alternative arrangements for their children.

"This is the centre operator’s second preschool to cease operations on short notice. As such, ECDA will take firm action and bar the operator from applying for any new Early Childhood Development Centre licences in the future," the agency said.

Parents who require further assistance can approach ECDA at contact [at] ecda.gov.sg. CNA