Busy Bees buzzing as preschool sector blooms

IF JUNE Rusdon had her way, preschool teachers would get a lot more respect. Says the chief executive of Busy Bees Asia: "Not until recently, many societies still looked at preschool educators as nannies or caregivers, or simply put - diaper changers. Preschool educators are credited much less than they rightfully deserve." "We needed to show people early childhood can be as rewarding a career because getting good people means higher quality preschools," she adds.

Campaigning and working with ministries, organising conferences, offering subsidised workshops and promoting the profession to tertiary students only did so much. These days, a common industry practice - of which Ms Rusdon and her team pioneered back in 2000 - is to sponsor fresh graduates or mid-career switchers on early education diploma courses, while paying them a full salary. As parents, particularly in Asia, wake up to the importance of preschool education, the demand for preschool teachers is only going to go up.

"Over the last two years, the government has placed more emphasis on the quality of preschool education, and we are heartened by this commendable commitment," says Ms Rusdon. "A great foundation needs to begin way before the age of six to prime our children for their learning journey ahead. We have come a long way knowing it's not so much about learning itself, but equipping children with the inquisitive spirit and a love for knowledge and life."