18th June 2007

Froebel Academy

CaseTrust awarded, Froebel Academy is in big trouble.

With five allegations stamped across them, Froebel has to yet to hand over certificates to students who completed their courses six months ago. Many students have three more months to the completion of their course and are worried about the authenticity of the school.

Student complaints ranged from the delayed delivery of the certificates to the closing down of the school. They were expressing their betrayal as their preschool course certificates were not too be stamped by the East Chine Normal University. These students felt that the certificates would no longer be of any use. One student wanted her money back but knew that was impossible.

Students were not the only ones experiencing this pain and rage. Several teachers have lodged complains to MOE as well. Among them, a part-time Mandarin teacher claimed she is yet to receive more than six months worth of wages accumulating to about $24,000.00. In response to this allegation, the school replied that they are looking into “students’ complaints” regarding this teacher.

The schools administration added that some staff had absconded with school funds. Froebel’s Principle Jennie Lee refused to appear before the public. She did, however, explain that some students were trying to orchestrate publicity and that the school is taking stock and undergoing some changes. With regards to the certificates, the school said that they have to ensure that students have attained satisfactory attendance, met practicum hours and paid all fees. These checks would usually take about three to six months.

The matter was brought up to CASE (Consumers Association of Singapore) and its Executive Director Seah Seng Choon said that they “will locate the owners and fix up a meeting to sort this out.” Along with MOE who has received up to 24 names in a formal complaint, CASE too plans to investigate the matter as soon as possible.

Some students had received help with the fees from organizations like NTUC and WDA.

Asked if they would make a police report, NTUC replied that the union body “would work with the relevant government agencies to ensure the interests of the workers would not be comprised.”

Students have been seen around the premises of the school despite it being locked. They were there to ensure fingers were not pointed back at them regarding their attendance.

The school has denied rumours of it closing down.