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SINGAPORE: The Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA) is investigating a field trip conducted by Cambridge Pre-school for possible violations of the COVID-19 rules.
In response to the CNA’s inquiries, an ECDA spokesperson said the agency was aware of the preschool’s field trip to Pasir Ris Park on Thursday (March 18).
“We are currently investigating whether the preschool has adhered to the (safe handling measures),” the spokesman said Saturday.
“If lapses are found, ECDA will take action against the preschool and will also work with them to ensure that future activities adhere to the (safe management measures) in place.”
The ECDA statement followed a Straits Times report on the outing, which said the outing appeared to be made up of more than 40 children and teachers.
The group reportedly had three picnic mats, with more than eight children on each mattress.
“In accordance with the direction of the multi-ministerial working group on the reopening of Phase 3, ECDA has allowed more activities to resume in preschool schools starting on January 1,” the spokesperson told CNA.
Activities carried out in external settings, such as field trips and learning trips, have been allowed to resume with safe management measures.
READ: COVID-19 – Some Preschoolers Continue Mask or Face Shield Policy for Children Under 6 Years Old Even After Rule Change
Preschools must ensure that the total group size is limited to 50 people, including children and adults. Children should be divided into smaller groups of up to eight, excluding teachers and staff. They must remain in their respective cohorts during the activities and there must be a safe distance between the groups.
Preschools have also been advised to ensure minimal mixing between children and members of the public when conducting activities outside, the ECDA said.
“Children should not be taken into crowded public spaces, which have high traffic or crowds, to the extent possible. Night camps remain suspended,” the spokesman said.
The National Parks Board has allowed schools and preschools to take learning trips and outdoor activities in the areas it manages since Phase 2 of Singapore’s reopening in June last year, the spokesperson added.
CNA has contacted Cambridge Pre-school for comment.
Established in 1993, Cambridge Pre-school has nine pre-schools in Singapore. It also has preschool centers in Cambodia, Indonesia and the Philippines.
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