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10 Free Places To Work At That Are Near MRTs If Your House Or Office Just Isn’t It

Joycelyn Yeow — Fri, 29 May 2026 08:28:07 +0000

Free places to “WFH” in Singapore

Imagine this: you’re rushing to finish a project due that very night, fingertips poised at the keyboard and ready to fire. You start brainstorming ideas, but before they become coherent, loud construction noises or colleagues squabbling break your thoughts and you’re back to staring at an empty document.

As much as we love the comfort of WFH or bonding with our colleagues at the workplace, sometimes our home and the office just cmi. Before you rip your hair out in frustration, we’ve curated a list of places you can work at, without having to spend a dime. They’re also within 15 minutes walking distance from an MRT station so no need to worry about ulu locations.

1. CapitaSpring

3-min walk from Raffles MRT with charging outlets

Right in the heart of the CBD area is CapitaSpring, a place that’s not just a treat for those who love greenery but also for those who seek a quiet WFH alternative that’s in central Singapore. No need to pre-select a Zoom background for your meetings as you’ll have a manicured garden as your backdrop.

To get here, take a quick 3-minute walk from Raffles Place MRT, head up to the Green Oasis from level 17 to 20 and chope your spot at the working pods that resemble giant bird cages. If that’s not your cup of tea, there are long benches paired with small round tables along the balcony. You’ll also find charging outlets under each pod and at each bench.

Take note that you’ll now need to make a booking to visit the garden via their booking page, with the 10.30am to 2.30pm time slot reserved for CapitaSpring tenants, residents of Citadines Raffles, and dining patrons of 1-Arden.

CapitaSpring Green Oasis

2. Our Tampines Hub

6-min walk from Tampines MRT

Refuel with some bubble tea or finger food – the options are endless here.

Easties, this place will be familiar to all of you. Set 6 minutes away from Tampines MRT, Our Tampines Hub is a hot location for students to mug at. But don’t let this deter you from going over with your laptop and planner as there are lots of available tables scattered around the hub.

No hotspot is needed here as you can tap on the free Wireless@SG WiFi. If you didn’t manage to chope a seat with a charger, laptops with long-lasting batteries such as the Zenbook 14 OLED (UX3402) will be your best pal. And while the place isn’t entirely air-conditioned, it’s been pretty cool and breezy during the many times I’ve been there.

Our Tampines Hub

3. SMU School of Business

1-min from Bras Basah MRT

You can find these benches opposite Booklink, 1 level up from the MRT exit.

Bras Basah MRT isn’t just home to the Lazada office, it’s also where you can find Singapore Management University. The campus spans across the stretch of road where you can easily catch up on work at the vacant tables and chairs there.

Each seat has a power outlet too.

But the crème de la crème would be this workspace at the School of Business. The place oozes atas hotel lobby vibes, with warm orange overlights and high chairs. Before you rush off to get a seat, do note that priority is given to SMU students and staff so it’s best to head over during post-exam season when it’ll be less crowded.

Singapore Management University

4. Republic Polytechnic

1 min from Woodlands North MRT

Think air-conditioned walkways and private work booths, and you’ll get Republic Polytechnic. The building has solid air conditioning almost everywhere, including the corridors where there are wooden benches for you to work at. You can connect to the free Wireless@SG WiFi, or if you know someone who studies there, well, it doesn’t hurt to ask if they can share their account.

To get here, head north and alight at Woodlands North MRT and walk 1 minute to reach the main gate.

Their library has a ton of tables and individual booths with charging stations so you can enjoy optimal silence while working. Similar to SMU, students and staff are given priority in these common areas, so we’d recommend avoiding exam periods when planning a trip there.

Republic Polytechnic

5. Khoo Teck Puat Hospital

11 min from Yishun MRT

Just down the North-South Line is Khoo Teck Puat Hospital (KTPH), 11 minutes away from Yishun MRT. More than just a place for doctor visits and check-ups, KTPH also has an alfresco workspace near the main taxi drop-off point for those who enjoy some outdoor scenery.

Here, you’ll be surrounded by green shrubbery and soft sunlight streaming in between the large patio table umbrellas. And if you’re feeling peckish, you can check out the nearby stores like Subway or the hospital canteen for some gru

Khoo Teck Puat Hospital

6. City Sprouts (Henderson)

14 min from Redhill MRT

Parking here is free too.

Remember the former Henderson Secondary School? It’s been transformed into Sprout Hub, an urban farm and green space for the public to check out. And before you go “HUH?”, no, we’re not asking you to bring your laptop to a farm – there’s a large open-space canteen here where you can properly take calls and do work.

There are charging ports here.

Aside from the free Wireless@SG WiFi, the canteen also boasts 5 food stalls that include the likes of Japanese cuisine, Hakka noodles and a coffee stall, where you can grab a bite or drink. To get here, you can alight at either Redhill MRT or Tiong Bahru MRT and walk about 14 minutes.

City Sprouts (Henderson)

7. Jurong East Street 21

9 min from Chinese Garden MRT

Image credit: Mr Pek

It’s true when they say you’ll find hidden gems in unexpected places. Nestled under Block 224 at Jurong East Street 21, just 9 minutes from Chinese Garden MRT, is the Smart Void Deck by Col-ours.

Image credit: Mr Pek

While this place doesn’t have free WiFi to tap on or charging outlets, it’s certainly a quiet spot for those seeking solace from the cacophony of disruptive noises at home or at the office. And if you need some pick-me-ups, you can take a 2-minute walk over to the nearby 7-Eleven to get some snacks and a refreshing beverage.

Address: Block 224 Jurong East Street 21, Singapore 600224

8. Tzu Chi Humanistic Youth Centre

10 min from Yishun MRT

Image credit: Bosco Lim Hearted Moments via Google Maps

If you’re looking for free WiFi, water coolers, and charging ports at each table, add the Tzu Chi Humanistic Youth Centre’s study area to your list of free working spaces.

A short 5-minute walk from Yishun MRT, the centre provides zen vibes so you can lock in on your work or studies. The centre might not have air conditioning, but its open-air concept and fans situated all over make it well ventilated so you don’t have to worry about SG’s heat.

Tzu Chi Humanistic Youth Centre (HYC)

9. Temasek shophouse

4-min walk from Dhoby Ghaut MRT

Image credit: wikipedia

For a spot in the city centre, check out Temasek shophouse, which is just a 4-minute walk from Dhoby Ghaut MRT. You’ll find an air-conditioned lobby with cushioned seats and tables to work from here.

There aren’t any charging ports available, but if you’re looking for a space to get some quick work in while enjoying a break from SG’s weather, you might want to add this spot to your list.

Temasek Shophouse

10. Central Library

5-minute walk from Bugis MRT

Image credit: G Crudo via Google Maps

A library isn’t just for borrowing books, especially when it has 11 stories with tables and charging ports for you to work from. The Central Library is located just 5 minutes by foot from Bugis MRT. With 11 levels open to the public, have your pick from cosy work spots to tables with city views.

If you need a mid-work snack, you can head downstairs to grab a bite from Old Chang Kee, or from Bugis Junction just across the street.

Do note that certain levels require you to reserve a seat before usage, which you can do so via the NLB seat booking portal.

Other popular libraries that users have recommended include the Harbourfront Library and Bishan Library, which are located less than 5 minutes away from Harbourfront MRT and Bishan MRT respectively. Seats here also require a booking.

National Library / Lee Kong Chian Reference Library

Free & accessible places to work at in Singapore

Escape the chaos at home or office with these alternative workspaces found across Singapore. And even if you’re just looking for a change in scenery, you’ll be able to conveniently locate them from nearby MRT stations.

Besides having a conducive environment to grind at, you’ll also want to arm yourself with gear that’ll make your on-the-go experience more productive – like the ASUS Zenbook 14 OLED (UX3402) that we brought along.

No sore arms here as this model weighs just 1.39kg and is 16.9mm in thickness, making it lightweight and compact. Despite this, the laptop comes fully equipped with I/O ports – including a USB 3.2 Gen 2, HDMI 2.0, MicroSD card reader, 2 Thunderbolt 4 USB-C and an audio combo jack.

You won’t have to lug around the charging wire as the laptop has a long lasting 75Wh battery – so you can enjoy high resolution movies on the 14-inch 2.8K OLED screen during your work breaks, without draining the majority of the juice. But if you’ve forgotten to charge it before heading out, the laptop can also be charged with a wide range of power banks.

For the uninitiated, the ASUS OLED technology gives you professional-grade visuals – AKA sharp visuals at any brightness level, with accurate colours and motion clarity. Because of the organic light-emitting compounds used, OLED displays produce 70% less harmful blue light.

For those who value efficiency, you’ll appreciate the ASUS Numberpad 2.0 which can be easily accessed on the trackpad. You can also login with just a touch of a button – via the fingerprint sensor on the power button.

Taking into account situations where you’ll need to share your screen with a pal or a colleague, the laptop comes with a 180° ErgoLift hinge that allows you to bend your screen backwards and lay it flat on the table. No need to scurry around tables to sit side-by-side when showing off your brilliant ideas.

If you’re looking to upgrade your tech, consider the ASUS Zenbook 14 OLED (UX3402) for its many functions packed into its slim and light frame. Retailing at $1,899, you can get the laptop at the ASUS Exclusive Store, ASUS Online Store, and all authorised retailers.

Find out more about the ASUS Zenbook 14 OLED (UX3402)

This post was brought to you by ASUS.
Promotions mentioned in this article may no longer be valid.
Photography by Clement Sim.
Originally published on 22nd June 2022. Last updated by Chandelle Cheong on 29th May 2026.

The post 10 Free Places To Work At That Are Near MRTs If Your House Or Office Just Isn’t It appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

10 Telltale Signs That You’re Job Hugging, No Matter How Many Times You Say “I’m Leaving Soon”

Nathan Koh — Fri, 12 Dec 2025 08:33:13 +0000

Job hugging signs

From job hopping to, now, job hugging. That’s a new term that explains the workplace trend where employees who do not find fulfilment in their jobs still choose to stay out of concern for job security, rather than loyalty to the company. Whether or not you think it’s an actual phenomenon, here are some telltale signs that you might be job hugging at your current workplace.

What is job hugging?

Job hugging is a phenomenon where workers stay at their current positions and companies due to the fear of market instability and lack of better opportunities. More often than not, these employees prioritise financial security over personal well-being. It has also led to fewer resignations and longer job tenures.

According to the Ministry of Manpower, Singapore’s average annual resignation rate hit a record low of 1.3% in 2024, and it dropped further to 1.2% in the first half of 2025. On the other hand, the average job tenure rose to 8 years in 2024, showing just how tightly we’re clinging on.

1. Frequently visiting the toilet & pantry to take a breather

Image for illustrative purposes only.

Throughout the day, you find yourself visiting the toilet or pantry to “pee” or “snack” – but in reality, you just want to be anywhere else but your laptop. Signs like these show low engagement with your work, where you feel disconnected or a lack of purpose in what you’re doing.

While it’s important to take a breather now and then during the day, stepping away from your desk a little too often might raise a few eyebrows.

2. Doing more than your job scope

Image for illustrative purposes only.
Image credit: cottonbro studio via Pexels

It’s normal to do things that are slightly out of your job scope – just to help the team out. However, with the fear of retrenchment, you put on a happy face and choose to take on more work. Whether it’s extra responsibilities or saikang work, you would rather get paid and have a job than find your next job.

If your fear is not managed properly, it can quickly lead to burnout and disengagement from your work.

3. Choosing comfort & stagnation

Image for illustrative purposes only.

On the other end of “doing more work” is “quiet quitting”. Your life moves like clockwork, and your days feel like they’re on repeat. You head to work, do the job, and go home. But you would rather go through the motions of a mundane and repetitive routine than take on new projects or tasks because it’s comfortable.

Unlike doing more work out of retrenchment anxiety, this version of job hugging comes from feeling disengaged and unmotivated to do more than what’s required.

4. Conversations with colleagues revolve around weekend plans

Image for illustrative purposes only.

You and your colleagues are already at work 8 hours a day, so there’s really no need to discuss work even more during lunch. The next best thing is to discuss your weekend plans – we have so many articles about them too.

Here’s a simple rule of thumb: on Mondays and Tuesdays, ask your colleagues what they did over the weekend, then ask about their upcoming weekend plans from Wednesdays to Fridays. Don’t be shy to tell them yours as well.

And if the conversation starts to fizzle out, there are plenty of lunch-friendly topics to fall back on.

5. Using annual leave to rest at home rather than going to JB

Image for illustrative purposes only.

We’re not saying that every AL should be used to go to JB, but if you find yourself taking leave to get extra rest at home, you might be facing mental burnout. In spite of that, you’re still clinging to that job. We think you should be using your AL to stretch the public holidays instead, and take a proper vacation.

Of course, if you really need to, take that break. We mean from the company. Forever.

6. Telling yourself that the promotion is coming soon

Image for illustrative purposes only.
Image credit: Ambre Esteve via Unsplash

Sometimes being delulu is not the solulu. You realised you’ve been working at the company long enough, and you haven’t actively learnt new skills. Instead of thinking that you’re a job hugger, you convince yourself that you’ll get offered a promotion or pay raise soon.

But it’s okay, you can continue to gaslight yourself into thinking the promotion is coming – though it probably isn’t. However, it’s still better than being unemployed.

7. Avoiding team activities

Image for illustrative purposes only.
Image credit: Ariel Paredes

It could be as big as company-wide events or as small as a team gathering outside of work hours. If you find yourself avoiding team activities, it could be a sign of job hugging. While most of the time these are optional activities, not participating in them shows reluctance in team bonding.

8. Scrolling on LinkedIn during office hours

Image for illustrative purposes only.
Image credit: Zulfugar Karimov via Pexels

LinkedIn is the Facebook of the corporate world. Even if you’re hugging your job, you still actively look for your next role somewhere else. It’s the optimistic way to stay at your miserable job while finding your next opportunity rather than waiting for an offer to be served.

But of course, the job market anxiety arises again as you submit applications, burn your ALs for interviews, and face rejections. Maybe it’s better to just hug on a bit longer.

9. Hitting the “Gen-Z stare” when asked about your job

Screenshot from: @daisylu_2 via X

You might be using the “Gen-Z stare” without even knowing. It’s an expressionless look – equivalent to the millennial term: bruh. You might do it if you don’t want to think or talk about your job outside of work. If you find yourself doing it to colleagues, friends, and family members, it’s time to acknowledge that you’re a job hugger.

10. Always complaining about your job

Image for illustrative purposes only.

Complaining is part of our Singaporean identity, but if you’re always complaining about your job, boss, or company – and you’re still there – there’s a high chance you’re a job hugger. On top of that, you believe the reason it’s hard to apply for new positions is not because of you, but because “the market is bad”.

There needs to be actions after your words – complaining gets you nowhere. If needed, have an honest conversation with your employer about internal opportunities.

How to overcome job hugging without quitting?

There’s nothing gravely wrong with job hugging – it is the safer option after all. But there are ways to overcome job hugging without quitting your job.

Upskilling is something that you can do outside of work, or if needed, you can request to be sent to courses that will be applicable to your current role. It adds value to what you can already do, and keeps you from feeling stuck. Taking on new projects and responsibilities also allows you to make lateral moves to other roles or departments within the company if levelling up is not an option.

The important thing is to make a deliberate effort to choose growth rather than comfort.

Are you a job hugger?

There are many reasons why someone might job hug, but it isn’t the worst thing in the world – it’s the safe way to live. And it’s not that people are “hugging”; most would definitely go back to hopping if more doors opened and opportunities popped up. At the end of the day, a job’s a job, and sometimes playing it safe isn’t such a bad thing.

12 Popular Side Hustles In SG Today To Consider If You Want To Escape The 9-To-5 Routine & Earn Extra Cash

Stacy Chew — Thu, 04 Dec 2025 02:11:18 +0000

Popular side hustles in Singapore

If you’ve ever felt like your 9-to-5 is just one long rinse-and-repeat cycle, you’re definitely not alone. Hustling in Singapore to keep up with the rat race is a pretty common experience, and it can feel like you’re running on a treadmill that never quite slows down. That’s where side hustles come in – not just to add a bit of colour to your week or earn some extra cash, but as a stepping stone towards something you’ve always wanted, whether it’s monetising a skill or passion, or even becoming your own boss one day.

What is a side hustle?

Screenshot from: Lemon8

Let’s break down what exactly a side hustle is; its main purpose is to provide you with side income, on top of what you’re preoccupied with on the regular – be it working or studying on a full-time basis. You could also be unemployed and have a side hustle.

Handmade trinkets.
Image credit: @miilkclover via Instagram

Side hustles are also supposed to be flexible, allowing you to work on them in your free or extra time. They can take all sorts of forms, whether it’s a hobby or a skill you want to monetise.

Image adapted from: Pexels

In this list, we’ll be talking about side hustles in digital and physical modes.

On the digital side, virtual products and services are being sold and provided – some examples include becoming a virtual assistant or an affiliate marketer.

Physical side hustles, on the flip side, involve products and services being created and sold in tangible forms. You could make and sell handmade products, or offer services that require hands-on effort, like being a freelance photographer.

– Digital side hustles –

1. Social media content creation

Make extra income by posting content online

Image credit: Pexels

Right off the bat, we have social media content creation as one of the most obvious digital side hustles. Get started as a content creator by creating any kind of digital content, ranging from videos to blog posts, and posting them on social media platforms for an online audience.

You’ll generally want to get on apps such as TikTok and Instagram, because those are the social media platforms most people doomscroll away at 3am, especially before a workday.

How it works: Post engaging content consistently. Once you grow an audience, you can earn through sponsorships, ad revenue, or affiliate links. The bigger your following and engagement, the more opportunities to make money.

2. Affiliate marketing

Get paid through selling products or services using a unique link

Screenshot from: @amnesia4508 via TikTok

Those of you who are chronically online would’ve seen content creators on TikTok selling a product, and they’ll usually direct you to purchase it by clicking on the yellow shopping cart in the bottom left corner of your screen.

That’s affiliate marketing, where you share product links on platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, or even websites and blog posts, to get people to purchase a product. Each successful referral will earn you a commission.

How it works: Sign up for affiliate programmes, get your unique link, and promote products. You earn per click, per sale, or per lead, depending on the programme. The more people engage with your links, the more commission you make.

3. Selling digital products

Sell your Canva templates or digital artwork

Screenshot from: Canva

Being an expert in a niche like digital art or graphic design generally means you might already have a marketable digital product ready to sell. These are things you create once and can sell online over and over, like e-books and even Canva templates.

How it works: You create your product, list it on a marketplace or your website, and when someone buys it, they get an instant digital download – then you earn each time it’s purchased.

4. Print on Demand (POD)

Create & sell your designs as products on websites

Image adapted from: Redbubble

Print on Demand (POD) works similarly to selling digital products, except that your end products take a more tangible form, such as T-shirts, mugs, or tote bags. A third-party company prints and ships them when someone orders, so you never have to deal with the stock.

How it works: You upload your design to a POD platform like Shopify or Redbubble, a customer buys it, and the POD provider prints, packs, and ships it. You earn the profit margin on each sale.

5. Dropshipping

Run an online retail store without carrying stock

Image credit: Pexels

If you’ve got ambitions to run a retail store of some sort but can’t quite commit all your time, try your hand at dropshipping. You sell products online, but a supplier handles stock and shipping – you’re basically a middleman between your supplier and your customer.

In a nutshell, dropshipping is a business model where you, as a seller, don’t keep any products yourself. Instead, you let a third-party supplier ship orders straight to your buyers. To help you get started, you can check out Dropship to curate some ideas for products.

How it works: A customer orders from your store. You forward the order and wholesale price to the supplier. They ship it directly, and you keep the difference between what you charged and the wholesale cost.

6. Writer

Write & post articles on the Medium website

Image credit: Pexels

Freelance writer jobs have been an ongoing thing for years, and if you don’t know about this already as a passionate writer or someone who’s trying to improve their writing skills, today’s your lucky day.

Medium is a well-known platform where anyone can post articles, and if your content attracts readers, you’ll be able to earn money through their Partner Program. To join, you must be at least 18 years of age, a member of Medium, and have published at least 1 story in the last 6 months. You also need to remain active and follow Medium’s content guidelines.

How it works: Create an account, join Medium’s Partner Program, and start writing to monetise your written works. You earn based on reader engagement, like total views and reads.

7. Virtual assistant

Complete administrative work remotely for clients

Being a virtual assistant might just be for you if you’ve ever tried organising your Skittles candy by colour. This role involves handling administrative, creative or even technical work, so you have to be really organised and have a keen eye for detail.

As a virtual assistant, you help clients with admin, social media, or creative tasks – all done remotely. It’s flexible and can fit around your schedule.

How it works: You get hired on an hourly or project basis. Tasks vary from managing emails to scheduling posts. The more clients you take, the more income you can make.

– Physical side hustles –

8. Handmade products

Put your handmade crafts up for sale

View this post on Instagram

Some people might feel more satisfied holding their crafts in hand – if that sounds like you and you’re passionate about handmaking products, you might be interested in turning your skills into an opportunity to earn some side cash. Some handmade craft examples include stickers, crochet goods, and trinkets.

How it works: Find your niche, make your product, and sell it online or at markets. The money comes straight from each sale.

9. 3D printed products

Design a product & sell it in a 3D-printed version

View this post on Instagram

Selling 3D printed products is another side hustling gig that’s been gaining popularity, and it’s easy to start if you already own or have access to a 3D printer.

3D printing allows you to make customised or in-demand items for customers, from unique keychains to home decor. But you’ll need some knowledge of 3D design software like Blender to create models, as well as an understanding of materials, printing settings, and post-processing techniques – so do read up if you’re unclear to ensure the best results. This might also be a good opportunity to use your credits to take a 3D printing SkillsFuture course.

How it works: Design your product, turn it into a 3D product, and sell it online or to local buyers. You can also take custom orders for extra profit.

10. Freelance photography/videography

Take photos & videos for multiple clients

View this post on Instagram

Freelance photography or videography is one of the more popular side hustles among Gen Zs, especially for those still in school and looking for a weekend gig. As a freelance photographer or videographer, your task is to take photos or videos for clients – most go for weddings, portraits, real estate, or commercial advertising.

Getting started will take some effort, as you’ll need to build a portfolio by doing small projects or helping friends take photos and videos at no charge. Once you have an established set of work to showcase on social media, you can explore taking on clients project by project.

How it works: Build a portfolio, promote your work, and take clients on a project-by-project basis. Payment comes per shoot or project.

11. Thrift reselling

Curate & sell undervalued items

Image credit: Woofie’s Warehouse Thrift Store Haji Lane via Google

Most thrift stores in Singapore do thrift reselling – it’s the process of buying items, most commonly pre-loved clothing, at a low price and reselling them for a profit, usually online or on a pop-up basis.

If you have an appreciation for undervalued or unique stuff, such as vintage clothes, digital cameras, or furniture, this might be the side hustle for you. It doesn’t always have to be reselling items too, you could add value to them by doing reworks like upcycling clothing, repairing furniture or customising pieces to attract potential buyers.

How it works: Source items, clean or repair if needed, then sell through platforms like Carousell, Instagram, or TikTok. Profit comes from the markup.

12. Home-based food business

Whip up cooked or baked goods for sale

Image credit: @twosisterssmoothie via Instagram

All foodies rise up, because now’s your time to show off your cooking or baking skills by starting a home-based food business. A recurring and popular theme of most home-based food businesses in Singapore is cafe-style treats, such as brownies and creative iced matcha latte blends.

This side hustle involves preparing food in your own kitchen and selling it locally, either through delivery, pickup, or a little dine-in set-up. Although most home-based food businesses don’t need a health certificate or SFA licence to operate because they’re considered small-scale and low-risk, it’s important to follow food safety rules. And if you’re handling high-risk items like meat, seafood, dairy, or ready-to-eat protein dishes, then a licence is required.

All businesses must also be registered with ACRA, which you can sort out on their website. At the time of writing, you don’t require approval from HDB or URA to run a small-scale business under the Home-Based Business Scheme.

How it works: Make your homemade eats, promote them online, and sell directly to customers. Earnings come from each order sold.

Things to consider & how to start

Image credit: Pexels

Starting a side hustle can be exciting yet nerve-wracking, but a little planning goes a long way. Consider your budget, time, and resources, and check if your hustle needs any licenses or insurance. Patience is important as results take time, and setbacks are normal.

Here are some tips to get you started:

Choose a side hustle: brainstorm what skills, hobbies, or passions you could turn into a side hustle.
Plan your resources: work out your budget for initial investments, schedule, and any equipment or materials you need.
Build an online presence: set up social media accounts, a website, or an online shop, depending on your side hustle.
Do research and connect: learn from existing creators, join communities, and ask for advice to improve.

Start your side hustle journey today

Don’t be afraid to take losses and celebrate small wins, as even small progress matters. Side hustles are as much about growth and experience as they are about extra income – so pick an idea, plan your resources, and start creating because your next side hustle could be just around the corner.

Read our other career-related articles:

Cover image adapted from: TheSmartLocal, @miilkclover via Instagram

8 Unspoken Truths About Getting Hired That No One Tells Fresh Grads

Dewi Nurjuwita — Wed, 29 Oct 2025 01:05:01 +0000

Unspoken truths about getting hired

“Grad loh!!”

Congrats, you survived college. But now, reality kicks in and it’s time to find your first full-time job. When the celebratory suppers are done, you suddenly find yourself staring at job portals wondering where to even start.

The thing is, no one really hands you a manual on how hiring in Singapore works. Behind every job ad and interview lies a set of unspoken truths about getting hired that can catch fresh grads off guard. To save you the trial and error, here are some insider tips we wish someone had told us earlier.

1. Your GPA isn’t everything

In Singapore, we grow up with grades hanging over our heads – from PSLE, to A-Levels or Diploma, and even through uni finals. It’s been drilled into us that the higher your GPA, the brighter your future. But once you step into the working world, that number on your transcript suddenly matters a lot less.

Sure, a strong GPA might get your CV noticed, but it won’t guarantee you the job or success after you land it. The same goes for whether you graduated from a private or local university, Polytechnic or ITE. Employers care more about how you think on your feet, whether you can adapt when things go sideways, and if you’re someone they’d actually want on their team.

2. Job hunting takes time – and that’s normal

You’ve polished your CV, applied to dozens of jobs, maybe even gone for a few interviews – and still, nothing. Don’t panic, it’s not just you. Even if you’re “doing everything right,” it can take a few months before landing your first full-time role. Hiring processes often move slowly – companies need time to shortlist candidates, conduct multiple rounds of interviews, and finalise budgets or approvals. So if things feel quiet, it doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong.

In fact, things are looking a little more positive than before. According to the Ministry of Manpower’s latest data, around 9,300 graduates from the 2025 cohort – or 52% – were employed as of June this year, up from 48% for the 2024 cohort at the same time last year. The proportion of grads in permanent roles also rose to 44%, compared to 37% in 2024.

These figures are expected to climb even higher as more fresh grads continue their job search in the months ahead. So, if you haven’t landed something yet, you’re not behind – you’re right on track.

3. Manage your expectations

Here you are waving your education certificate up in the air – but hold up. That doesn’t mean you’ll be raking in a 5-figure salary straight away. Starting pay can sometimes feel underwhelming, especially when social media makes it seem like everyone is landing cushy jobs with sky-high salaries. Truth is, those cases are simply not the majority.

Most fresh grads start modestly, and that’s okay. Your pay will grow as you gain experience, or move into sectors that are expanding. We suggest researching the median and average salaries for your positions using data published by recruitment firms.It helps to know what’s realistic in the market, instead of believing people on social media who talk about their 5-figure salaries. For a more accurate gauge, you can refer to the Straits Times’ Singapore Salary Guide 2025.

4. Temporary or contract roles are valuable too

Image credit: Uchify

Here’s our next tip: don’t dismiss contract, freelance, or part-time gigs just because they’re not labelled “full-time.” A part-time or temporary gig that is relevant to your dream job might just be the gateway to full-time employment. Just think of it as test-driving the job before committing. These roles build real skills, expand your network, and sometimes even open doors to permanent positions.

One way to dip your toes in is through the GRaduate Industry Traineeships (GRIT) Programme by Workforce Singapore. This scheme is similar to the earlier SGUnited Traineeships (SGUT), which resulted in close to 9 out of 10 participants securing full-time employment.

The GRIT programme offers structured 3- to 6-month traineeships across different sectors, so you’ll get hands-on industry experience, a stipend co-funded by the Government, and a smoother transition into full-time roles. This is a good option for grads who want something more structured than freelance work, but aren’t ready to commit to a permanent job just yet.

Companies may not always have full-time openings, but during interviews, you can ask if there are vacancies in other teams or related departments. If the company culture feels like a good fit, keep your options open – another team within the same department might be hiring, and you can always explore a rotation later on. Even if the experience feels company-specific, it still adds weight to your resume and shows that you’ve picked up industry know-how.

5. Networking beats cold applications

You know what they say, “your network is your net worth”. Although it may sound cliché, there’s definitely some truth to it. Building connections through internships, LinkedIn, alumni circles, or industry events can open way more doors than firing off cold applications.

A referral from someone in the company often carries more weight than sending 50 resumes into the void. So don’t be shy about reaching out, striking up conversations, or even sliding into LinkedIn DMs. Trust us, most people are more open to sharing advice or leads than you think.

6. Your first job may not match your degree

Image credit: Pang Yuhao via Unsplash

Here’s the thing: many fresh grads don’t actually start out in the field they studied. And that’s not a sign that you’ve “failed” – it’s part of the learning process for you to pick up relevant skills along the way towards your ultimate dream job. Career paths these days are rarely linear. Gone are the times when you’d join one company and stay there till retirement.

Your first job doesn’t lock you in forever. Plenty of people start in one field only to find new strengths or passions later on. What matters more are the transferable skills you pick up along the way – project management, teamwork, data analysis – all of which become stepping stones for your next move. During your job search, using real-life examples will help your resume stand out more.

So, instead of stressing about whether your first job matches your degree perfectly, think of it as a launchpad. Stay open, learn what you can, and trust that pivots are part of the journey.

7. Interviewers assess job fit as much as skills

Sure, your grades and CV might get you shortlisted. But once you’re in the interview room, it’s not just about ticking boxes. Here’s what employers look for instead: whether you’ll gel with the team, adapt to the company culture, and bring more to the table than what’s written on paper.

Think less “I must prove I’m perfect,” and more “How do I show I’m curious, collaborative, and willing to grow?”. At the end of the day, someone who vibes well with the team and shows openness to learning often beats out the most technically qualified candidate. A tip when applying for a job is to ask friends who are existing employees or have worked in the company about the culture there. After all, it can be difficult to judge whether you will be a good fit before starting.

And if you’re worried about slipping up, read our handy guide to common job interview mistakes before your next round of interviews.

8. Continue learning even after landing your first job

Just because you’re done with school doesn’t mean the learning ends there. The job market is shifting fast, with fields like AI, green tech, and digital services opening new doors every year.

So when you land your first job as a fresh grad, do identify the skills you’d need to advance in your career. There are various ways you can do so: like picking up a SkillsFuture course, diving into Coursera, or checking out NTUC LearningHub. It’s time to level up your career character so you’re always ready for the next big opportunity.

Getting hired in Singapore

We know, we know – some of these “truths” might put a damper on your adulting plans. They aren’t setbacks but are part of the process every fresh grad goes through. Here’s the good news: graduates are still being hired, and the job market has plenty of secure opportunities if you stay open.

What really makes the difference is your mindset: being intentional, adaptable, and willing to explore different routes. So don’t stress about having it all figured out on day one – define your priorities, take small steps, and keep your eyes open for what’s next.

For more tips and resources to help you chart your career path, do check out the career starter pack for fresh graduates by Workforce Singapore (WSG).

Find out more about the GRaduate Industry Traineeship Programme

This post was brought to you by Ministry of Manpower Singapore.

The post 8 Unspoken Truths About Getting Hired That No One Tells Fresh Grads appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

Is This The Era Of Flexible Work Arrangements? We Ask 3 Singaporeans Who’ve Been There, Done That

TSL — Fri, 05 Sep 2025 01:00:09 +0000

Flexible work arrangements in Singapore

From choosing where you work to when and how much you work, what kind of flexibility matters most to you? In Singapore, Flexible Work Arrangements (FWAs) became more commonplace during the pandemic, and since then, both employers and employees have been rethinking how, when, and where work gets done.

But beyond the buzzwords, what does flexibility look like in practice? We spoke to three Singaporeans who’ve embraced different types of FWAs, from compressed work weeks to remote working across borders and even transitioning to a part-time role.

Working 2.5 days/week at 74 years old

It’s true when they say that learning is a lifelong journey. I’m a 74-year-old Consultant at Tripartite Alliance for Fair and Progressive Employment Practices (TAFEP), and I don’t intend to stop working anytime soon. My time with TAFEP started in 2017, when I joined as a part-timer with the Employer Advisory Service Team.

Before that, I’d spent over 40 years in full-time work. By 2014, the demands of my job, coupled with caregiving responsibilities for my elderly siblings and retired husband, led me to consider retirement.

But before I could bid adios to working, I was given the opportunity to work part-time at TAFEP instead. This could not have come at a better time, as I was hesitant to give up working entirely. I’m glad that I had an open conversation about my caregiving needs with my employer, which led to a perfect solution: a part-time arrangement.

What makes this arrangement especially meaningful is that it benefits not just me, but my organisation as well. With over 4 decades of HR experience, I’m able to support TAFEP by training and advising employers on the Employment Act and related guidelines, and imparting my knowledge to younger colleagues. Despite my years in the workforce, the learning hasn’t stopped – I regularly research and keep up with new developments in the HR space to stay relevant and continue adding value.

I now work at TAFEP 2.5 days per week, with the option of working from home (WFH) once a week. This WFH day is flexible, and I would coordinate it with days when I’m not required to meet my colleagues in person.

On such days, I conduct group training sessions and provide advisory support to employers through virtual and phone consultations. If I ever need to adjust my schedule, I simply inform my team lead. Also, my supervisor checks in regularly to ensure the arrangement continues to meet my needs.

This flexibility has made managing personal commitments far easier, and I feel genuinely supported by my organisation. It’s a strong example of how companies can make strategic decisions to retain mature employees in ways that serve both their people and business goals – such as maintaining a skilled and experienced workforce and ensuring consistent service delivery.

Being on a part-time work arrangement has made my life more fulfilling. It lets me join my family on vacations, exercise regularly, and continue my volunteer work.

It has also extended my career for longer than I thought possible. Through this FWA, TAFEP walks the talk as a progressive and age-friendly employer that values diverse talent across all life stages.

I never imagined I could work beyond 70, but yet here I am.

– Peggy Ang, 74

Compressed 4-day work week, with Mondays off

It might come as a surprise to some, but I’ve been with Focus on the Family Singapore Limited for more than a decade. I first joined the company as part of the Partnership and Outreach team, where I frequently networked with schools and companies. This meant a lot of client-facing work and a densely packed schedule with tonnes of meetings.

Lo and behold, I started to experience the much-dreaded burnout during my 7th year. I had also just moved to my own place with my spouse, and weekends were no longer designated chill me-times.

I had initially planned on going for a sabbatical to combat this. But Covid happened and made WFH the new normal. I found myself adjusting well to the momentum of working from home and enjoying the personal space at home. I was also able to begin my day at a less hurried pace without the rush-hour commute to the office.

At this juncture, my company offered for me to take on a new role in the Digital Transformation team, which I gladly accepted. It was a change of job scope and an exciting challenge. I would be working on revamping the Customer Relationship Management system, as well as redesigning business processes.

While this change was refreshing and something that energised me, it presented new challenges as well. The end of the circuit breaker also meant we had to return to offices, and activities started to fill my calendar again. My introverted self found the constant human interaction to be draining, and it didn’t take long before I felt the burnout returning.

I had to dig deeper and find a proper solution.

I signed up for my company’s coaching sessions, which offered 1-on-1 guidance tailored to my work-life goals. At the time, I was considering a shift to part-time work — but during one session, my coach (the CEO of Focus Singapore) suggested exploring a compressed work week instead. The arrangement would give me Mondays off, in exchange for working two additional hours from Tuesday to Friday.

As you might’ve guessed, this worked out really well for me. I gained a new understanding of my working style. The extra hour each day gave me more time to finish my work without rushing, and Mondays are spent catching up on rest, activities that recharge me, as well as household chores.

I was also given the flexibility to WFH on Tuesdays and Fridays. I reserved these days for deep-focus tasks like researching new digital solutions, redesigning business processes to improve efficiency, and preparing for upcoming meetings. In-person sessions were then concentrated on Wednesdays and Thursdays, allowing for a more purposeful and productive work rhythm.

As remote and hybrid setups become part of our organisation’s work-life efforts, we have also adapted the way we collaborate with one another. Trust and accountability have become the backbone of our work culture.

Needless to say, my burnout has been kept at bay. I’ve benefited from the extended rest on Mondays and also learnt to be more organised and intentional with my planning and time management to make this FWA effective for me and my organisation.

– Gena Chua, 34

Working remotely from Thailand

In the TSL office.

As the Associate Director at TSL, I oversee a plethora of creative content, strategic planning, and people aspect of all the titles under the TSL umbrella. For the uninitiated, this includes sites like Must Share News, Uchify, ZULA, and Eatbook.

In 2022, my husband and I were given the chance to make Thailand our Home 2.0, thanks to the agricultural nature of my husband’s business.

Moving to Thailand was a pretty easy “yes” for us. We immediately started planning a 6-month timeline leading up to the move. Of course, uprooting your entire family and moving to another country was no easy task.

Another major concern I had was my job. At that point, I had already been with TSL for 7 years and was reluctant to part with the company. But I was also prepared for the unfortunate outcome of being unemployed, should this not work out.

My gameplan when speaking to my boss was simple – be honest, and prove that I will be just as productive. My good performance record and strong reliability definitely helped as well. I was also open to returning back to the Singapore office for key events 3-4 times a year.

Taking care of my sick daughter while attending work meetings.
Image credit: Kimberly Lauren Wong

Thankfully, my boss was agreeable to this FWA. It also helped that our work-from-home arrangements during Covid proved viable, and my being in Thailand was kinda an extended version of that.

Thus began my “farmer life” in Thailand in July 2022. Thailand is an hour behind, so I start my workday at 8am when it is 9am in Singapore. Because there’s no office for me to travel to, I’m spared from the peak-hour traffic and am able to run errands before dropping my kids off at school.

The best part of my flexible workplace is spending more time with my husband and children without sacrificing my work quality. In the evenings, when my children have gone to bed, I’m able to catch up on work without distractions. I am able to speed through tonnes of emails, work on new projects, and problem-solve any internal management matters.

The view from my window.
Image credit: Kimberly Lauren Wong

The shift in environment has been transformational – not just for my well-being, but also creatively. Living amidst nature has given me a refreshed perspective that’s sparked new ideas and ways of thinking. For a creativity-driven company like TSL, this adds real value. I approach challenges with renewed clarity and offer different angles that stem from a slower, more reflective pace of life.

This flexible setup also allows me to stay deeply connected and committed. Being in an environment that supports both my personal and family life enables me to bring more focus, energy, and creativity to my leadership. From a business standpoint, it’s a win-win – the company retained an experienced team member while also benefitting from the fresh perspectives I offered from working in a different cultural context.

Admittedly, my situation is pretty unique given my husband’s career. But I’m glad that this exciting milestone was achieved in my adulting journey. My productivity and work-life balance have significantly improved, and I’m able to solidify my relationship with my husband and kiddos.

– Kimberly Lauren Wong, 33

Flexible working arrangements in Singapore

With an ageing population in Singapore, finding the right talent becomes increasingly challenging. Failure to look after their talent will make businesses unsustainable. Employers who offer FWAs can attract and retain talent, leading to improved productivity and lower recruitment costs. At the same time, employees will feel valued and motivated when their work-life needs are met, creating a win-win situation for both parties.

As an employer, understanding the needs of your workforce and implementing effective FWAs can be a challenge. This is where TAFEP steps in.

They have an array of resources available for employers, including training programmes that provide guidance in implementing these FWAs for the company.

Employees and employers can also refer to the Tripartite Guidelines on FWA Requests to know how to request or handle FWA requests.

Naturally, not every arrangement will work for every organisation. Depending on your company’s needs, there are plenty of arrangements that employers can consider – from flexi-shift and job sharing to staggered time and phased retirement. It ain’t just about working from home.

So, is this truly the era of FWAs? It’s an easy “yes” for me. Everyone’s work and home life situations are different. But as long as employers and employees work hand-in-hand to build mutual trust, provide the necessary support, and share the same goals, this could be a reality for many.

Find out more about Flexible Work Arrangements on TAFEP’s website

This post was brought to you by TAFEP.
Photography by Ian Sim.

The post Is This The Era Of Flexible Work Arrangements? We Ask 3 Singaporeans Who’ve Been There, Done That appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

10 Unique Jobs You Can Get In Singapore To Escape The 9-5 Grind

Mandon Lee — Fri, 29 Aug 2025 06:00:46 +0000

Unique Jobs in Singapore

There was a time when my parents asked me what I want to be when I grow up. I told them, “Lawyer, Astronaut, Farmer, Hawker, Taxi Driver, and Librarian.” They were confused that a 5-year-old had such aspirations, but what they didn’t know was that I wanted to be in those professions all at once. A hawker selling char kway teow in the ISS – count me in if you’ve got contacts for my dream job.

While that’s gonna be just a dream, what won’t be a dream is you having to explain your job scope to your parents if you ever land yourself in one of these 10 unique, and perhaps subjectively, fun jobs in Singapore.

P.S. It’s not going to be as easy as saying, “I sell char kway teow to astronauts.”

Why go for a unique job in Singapore?

In these uncertain times, switching careers – especially to do something off the beaten path – can be daunting. But some people might need a break from it all. The daily corporate grind is taxing on everyone and trying out a new job could be a much-needed change of pace.

If you come upon better financial times, there’s no harm in taking it easy and stepping away for a bit. You deserve a break and you never know, you might just come across a new career you love.

1. KPod Hunter

Image credit: James Dunworth via Flickr

You’ve heard of KPop Demon Hunters, but in Singapore, we have our own version: KPod Hunters – a team of people focused solely on cracking down on vape selling in Singapore. The official job role is to be an investigator conducting on-the-ground surveillance, raids and community outreach with the Health Sciences Authority (HSA).

Social media has been exposing the true dangers of KPods – addictive e-cigarette variants – that leave long-term users in a trance-like state. For those who feel like they’re in too deep, it’s not too late to give it up. There are vape bins where you can dispose of them without repercussions.

The situation is getting very real here with Prime Minister Lawrence Wong himself equating vapes to drugs. If you want to contribute to a good cause, no harm in giving this interesting, unique job a shot.

2. Monkey Water Gunner

Image credit: NParks

Those are 2 things you’d never thought would go together. But yes – our lovely NParks officers, more specifically, a new team of Monkey Water Gunners, have resorted to using water guns to wrangle wild Macaques that have infiltrated housing estates.

A career in park management comes in many shapes and forms, including landscaping and architecture. If your skills align with any of these industries, maybe you could leave your 9-5 and get up to some monkey business with this uncommon job at NParks. You might get to be a Monkey Water Gunner yourself.

3. Worm Farmer

Image credit: Garden City Farm via Google Maps

Fun fact: worm farmers are one of the pioneers in waste management. Stemming from the idea of decomposition and compost-creation, worm farmers spend their 9-5 at their unconventional job making sure that these slender creatures are fed, growing and reproducing. The worms are then sold as composting agents for home gardeners to create 100% organic fertiliser for your garden.

These farmers get paid $10/hour, so the next time you see your baby cousin playing with mud and soil, you might just be looking at a composting pioneer. You can easily become one yourself too. All you need is a garden and enough mulch to attract the right critters.

4. Tree Doctor

Image credit: Hash Tree Care via Google Maps

The proper name for this profession is “Arborist”, but being able to call yourself a doctor is a bit of a flex. There’s even an International Society of Arboriculture. Before you make “ar boh” jokes, think of all the accidents that could’ve happened on our highways if the many trees on the side suddenly collapsed.

Treatment and inspection of trees are just a small part of the doctor’s job. They’re also the ones on the government’s speed dial in the event that a tree gets struck by lightning – and like humans, literally drop dead.

We actually found this odd job in Singapore on JobStreet. Scroll down more to find out how the portal can make your job search a breeze.

5. Queuer

@toymaenagerie

I thought we were early joining the queue at 7 a.m. There were already more than 30 people there. Shoulda come at 5 instead. #TheMonstersWackyMart #TheMonsters #Labubu #WackyMart #PopMart @popmartsg @popmartglobal #fyp #fypage #foryourpage #foryoupage #fypsingapore #Singapore #singaporelife #arttoys

♬ Headlock – Imogen Heap

Bank in on your inherent Singaporean talent and you could earn up to $300 just for queuing on behalf of some rich businessman cosying at home.

Whenever hyped products like a new Labubu or Taylor Swift tickets go on sale, you will be able to find posts calling for queuers all over the front page of Carousell. If you are already going to join the hype, standing in for someone and getting paid for this odd job in Singapore doesn’t seem that bad of an idea.

5. Professional Cuddler

Image credit: Cuddle Companions

Admittedly, amongst the list of unique jobs in Singapore, this one can seem pretty dodgy. However, if you are willing to be a human-sized teddy bear, you can earn a living by helping out some touch-starved people. Nowadays, dating is complicated – the apps, the small talk and all that make it complicated. This is a quick and easy way for someone to get intimacy without commitment or sex.

Known as Touch Therapists in the professional world, professional cuddlers are making bank by alleviating negative emotions from the lives of their clients by way of platonic touch.

6. Professional Groomsman & Bridesmaid

Image credit: @mavericks.weddings via Instagram

Contrary to popular belief, money can actually buy you friends, especially with this fun, unique job in Singapore. Maybe a couple needs more guys for their gatecrash, or they don’t have an even number of friends on both sides. Hiring a paid groomsman or bridesmaid will help fill that spot, and it’ll look nicer in the photos.

Rates vary depending on the budget of the wedding, but hey, getting free food and a nice new outfit doesn’t hurt either. Plus, you’ll have all the bridesmaid/groomsman privileges without the drama.

Image credit: cottonbro studio via Pexels

8. BF/GF for a day

Image credit: cottonbro studio via Pexels

If you have a charming personality and have a good reputation with older aunties and uncles, try your hand at being a boyfriend or girlfriend for hire.

Most Singaporean adults can relate to the constant pestering from older family members asking the age-old question, “When are you getting married?” So, during festivities or work functions, this is a foolproof way to get people off their backs for being single.

You can also expect clients who just need emergency plus ones to weddings or just want a date without the hassle of dealing with the apps.

9. Human Statue

Image credit: Noortje Oude Veldhuis via Flickr

The human statues here are on a whole different level from the silver-painted buskers you see along Orchard Road. These people are professionals who can play roles ranging from a Greek god to a stone-cast performer.

Mostly hired to liven up otherwise boring corporate events, this is one of the fun, cool jobs in Singapore that requires committing to the bit so strongly that when you start moving, you’ll get the perfect slo-mo reaction from the audience. TikTok would love this type of content.

10. TCM Veterinarian/Nurse for pets

Image credit: College of Integrative Veterinary Therapies

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) may be getting more and more legit in Singapore, but some vets have long been utilising the same techniques of acupuncture and electrostimulation on our furry ones. Like the effects TCM has on humans, TCM proves itself to aid our pets in recovering at faster rates than commercially available medicine, with visible improvements in just one session.

Your TCM elective won’t be just for show when you’re applying for this job.

Strange jobs for not-so-average Singaporeans

This list of unique, interesting jobs in Singapore just goes to show that there is a market for anything and everything in this globalised world. Making a living doesn’t have to mean being confined to a small cubicle for 8 hours a day, for the rest of your life. But if you fall more on the safe side and are looking for jobs a little less flamboyant, that’s perfectly fine as well.

Get your dream job with JobStreet.com

Steer clear of mind-numbing jobs with JobStreet.com’s immense database of listings. With over 48,000 corporations that are on the hunt for candidates – possibly you – you could end up with multiple offers all at once.

JobStreet.com lists jobs by their individual specialisations. This means that you’ll be able to subscribe to updates from the specific sectors you’ve been eyeballing all your life, and be notified whenever there’s an opening.

There are even courses for potential employees to equip themselves with marketable skills before the job search process begins. This added experience on your resume could possibly open up more opportunities for your passion and career to intersect, bringing you a step closer to your dream job.

Job hunting doesn’t have to be a complex process of sending CVs, cover letters, and learning the next popular thing to talk about at interviews. A few simple clicks is all it takes. So whether you are thinking of walking down the path of conventional professions, or unorthodox ones, you’re sure to find them all on JobStreet.com.

Find out more about JobStreet.com

This post was brought to you by Jobstreet.com.
Cover image adapted from: College of Integrative Veterinary Therapies, James Dunworth via Flickr, cottonbro studio via Pexels
Last updated by ‘Arifah Malik on 29 August 2025.

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12 Highest-Paying Part-Time Jobs In SG To Consider For Sem Break If You’re A Broke Uni Student

Muhammad Syahiran — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 02:06:38 +0000

Part-time jobs in Singapore

It’s the semester break, which means uni students are now swapping lecture halls for job boards in search of part-time gigs. Whether you’re working to gain experience, make some extra cash or do something productive during your free time, finding a part-time job in Singapore that fits your needs isn’t always easy.

So if you’re looking for a job with decent pay and plenty of hands-on experience, we’ve got just the list for you. Pair that with smart money-saving habits like using promo codes and taking full advantage of student discounts, you might just escape that broke uni student stereotype.

What you need to know about part-time jobs in Singapore

What comes to mind when you mention “part-time jobs” are usually roles in retail or F&B where you’ll be compensated on an hourly basis. While those 2 are the most common, there are more unique ones out there, like pet sitters or tuition teachers. These jobs usually pay more as they require specialised skills, though not quite as much commitment as a full-time role.

According to various sources like Glassdoor, the average salary range for part-time jobs in Singapore in 2025 is $9 to $12/hour. But if the nature of the job is more complicated, you may earn as high as $20/hour.

Do I need prior experience before starting a part-time job?

For F&B jobs, you may need to take and pass a basic food hygiene course and exam. Before starting work, you’ll probably have to undergo some basic training on duties like cashiering or waitressing, especially if you have no previous experience. The same goes for jobs in retail and events.

However, in many cases, the training will be provided on the job, so no prior experience is required. There are some part-time jobs, however, that have prerequisites, such as tutoring. It goes without saying that if you’re going to teach a subject, you’ll need to know your stuff and be familiar with the course syllabus you’re covering.

How does the application process work?

Most of the time, jobs with shorter commitment periods don’t require an interview; just fill up the application form and you’re good to go. But for customer-facing roles, there’s a higher possibility of having to sit through a simple interview process. Sometimes, walk-in interviews are accepted.

If you’re applying for a part-time job which requires prior training or knowledge, such as tutoring or pet sitting, you will need to submit a resume to the employer.

Some job-hunting sites might link you up with an agent or a recruiter who acts as a middleman between you and the part-time job you’re applying for. If you land the job, they’ll earn a small commission, but fret not, it doesn’t come out of your pay. Rather, the company hiring has to fork out a fee for the help in finding manpower.

Job	Rates	Pros	Cons
Retail associate	From $10/hour	Might get staff discounts	Long working hours
F&B server	Up to $16/hour	Free meals are usually provided	Long working hours
Delivery riders	From $12/hour	Flexible schedule	Physically demanding
Tutor	From $20/hour	Flexible schedule	Very competitive job market
Babysitter	From $17/hour	Enjoyable if you love kids	Heavy responsibility
Event ushers	From $10.50/hour	Simple job scope	Must stand for very long hours
Pet sitter	From $15/hour	Enjoyable if you love animals	Job comes on an ad-hoc basis
Warehouse packer	From $10/hour	Simple job scope	Physically demanding and can cause backaches
Freelance caregiver	From $17/hour	Flexible schedule	Heavy responsibility
Logistics assistant	From $10/hour	No experience required	Physically demanding
Translator	Up to $50/hour	High pay & flexible schedule	Job comes on an ad-hoc basis
Admin assistant	From $12/hour	Simple job scope	Repetitive tasks

1. Retail associate

From $10/hour

As a retail associate, your role will mainly involve managing inventory on the sales floor, cashiering, and basic housekeeping duties. Of course, you’ll interact a lot with customers, so product knowledge is key. Some places even offer a 1.5x rate per hour if you work during public holidays and festive seasons like Christmas and New Year’s Eve.

Don’t fret, you’ll get weekdays off since those aren’t busy periods. It’s not just all work though, there are rewards for you to enjoy too, like staff discounts on products or exclusive access to new items.

Companies to look at:

2. F&B server

Up to $16/hour

Image credit: NTUC LearningHub

In the F&B sector, you’ll usually be a server and heavily involved in the behind-the-scenes of the kitchen. You’ll be moving food quickly from the kitchen to the tables before flashing your pearly whites to diners. Besides that, cashiering and housekeeping duties will likely also be involved.

It can be an intense environment, especially during peak dining hours or the holiday season. Is it like a scene from Hell’s Kitchen? Maybe, but as a part-timer, just think of it as a crash course for staying calm under pressure. Besides, you’re getting paid more than retail jobs, with rates going as high as $16/hour.

Companies to look at:

3. Delivery riders

From $12/hour

Another common part-time gig: delivery riders. You would have most likely called upon their services before, and can now get a taste of what it’s like on the other side. If you’re someone who can’t keep still, this job’s for you. There’s a sense of “freedom” being able to roam around the city instead of being indoors for a change, albeit under tight time constraints from customers.

The total amount you earn is up to you, so you can choose to chiong and rake it in, or just do it as and when you feel like it. Being a delivery rider for GrabFood or other companies comes with its own set of challenges, like issues with collecting orders and difficult customers, but it also comes with perks like flexible hours, tips from generous tippers, and getting to know the latest makan spots around town.

You can even deliver by foot or bicycle if you haven’t gotten your driving or motorbike license yet.

Companies to look at:

4. Tutor

From $20/hour

Image for illustrative purposes only.

Sometimes, jobs where you serve people’s materialistic needs can be a bit sian after a while. If you’re looking for something more rewarding, like sharing knowledge with others, try your hand at being a tutor. Seeing that Singaporeans stress a lot on education, it’s no surprise that there’s a high demand for tutors out there.

Do note that you must have the proper know-how and be a good student yourself before trying to impart wisdom to others, duh.

Companies to look at:

5. Babysitter

From $17/hour

Image for illustrative purposes only.

Those who love kids, but more importantly, have lots of patience, can consider being a babysitter. First, you would need to be at least 16 years old and complete a babysitting course recognised by the Ministry of Social and Family Development.

The course would cover various essential skills a babysitter must have, including first aid, child development, and safety. You’ll need to take an exam at the end of it all.

Pro tip: having someone to vouch for you goes a long way, so remember to collect testimonials once you get started to build that rep.

The job scope of a babysitter typically involves keeping the children entertained, supervising homework, and preparing basic meals and snacks. Do note that a babysitter is different from a nanny, with the latter’s job scope covering a wider range of duties like housekeeping.

Companies to look at:

6. Event ushers

From $10.50/hour

Image credit: Singapore Sports Hub

Part-time job placements for event ushers come and go based on the availability of events or live performances in Singapore. The job scope is simple; just direct and lend a helping hand to people attending the event, ensuring that no one strays off course or gets lost. Of course, this means you’ll also have to stand for very long hours, check the validity of each visitor’s ticket, and know exactly where the restrooms are.

Companies to look at:

7. Pet sitter

From $15/hour

Image for illustrative purposes only.

Handling kids may be too much for some of us, but what about handling animals instead? Pet sitters are another evergreen job for animal lovers. The job scope depends on what the pet owner needs on a particular day, so it’s mostly on an ad-hoc basis. Oftentimes, you’ll have to walk their pet; other times, you may have to take them to the vet and ensure they take their meds.

Even a simple task of walking their dog for 30 minutes can fetch you some money. On the flip side, if the owners are going overseas, you’ll find yourself taking care of the doggo for a few days, during which you’ll be paid on a per-night basis. Similar to babysitters, having a few people who can vouch for you would greatly boost your chances.

Companies to look at:

8. Warehouse packer

From $10/hour

Image for illustrative purposes only.

Prepare to get your body moving if you sign up as a warehouse packer. The job is simple – just unload, arrange, and sort out parcels accordingly. This is good for those who have a month of free time to kill and would rather spend it farming money than lazing at home.

There’s no doubt the job is physically demanding, so it’s best you head down to your nearest fitness corner and start exercising. Job availability comes and goes, but most of these job openings peak during periods like 12.12 sales and Black Friday.

Just a heads up – working in a warehouse can be a bit risky since you’ll be surrounded by heavy equipment and moving stock. Most roles will require you to gear up with safety boots and other protective wear.

Companies to look at:

9. Freelance caregiver

From $17/hour

Image credit: NTUC Health

Show love and spread kindness by applying for a freelance caregiver role at elderly centres or one of the many telemedicine services in Singapore offering house calls. You don’t have to be a licensed doctor; just passionate enough to provide care with graciousness and patience.

Of course, if you have basic medical skills like CPR or first aid, it’ll make you stand out against other applicants. These care centres will provide in-house training to help you learn on the job.

Companies to look at:

10. Logistics assistant

From $10/hour

Image credit: Hasse

Becoming a logistics assistant is ideal for someone thorough and detail-oriented. While it may seem similar to warehouse packing, this role means you’ll be more involved in processes like inventory management, shipping coordination and record keeping.

Other tasks may include restocking and quality control. Some logistics assistant positions require 1-2 years of experience in the field, but certain companies allow you to learn on the job, without prior experience. You’ll be working with a team, and training is usually provided, so don’t be intimidated by the job scope.

Companies to look at:

DFI Retail Group

Bells Institute of Higher Learning

11. Translator

Up to $50/hour

Image for illustrative purposes only.

All those years of begrudgingly learning a second language might actually pay off – you could land a gig as a translator. These ad-hoc jobs aren’t limited to the usual mother tongue languages like Chinese or Malay, some companies even look for Singhalese, Hindi or Tagalog translators.

This job may require you to translate important documents, certificates or contracts. This means you may need to go through a more rigorous hiring process, and some prior experience is usually expected. But the high pay and flexible work hours make it a pretty sweet gig. Plus, if you’ve got certification in translation, it’ll make landing this role way easier.

Companies to look at:

12. Admin assistant

From $12/hour

Image for illustrative purposes only.

As an admin assistant, you’ll be in charge of planning, coordinating, and scheduling meetings, as well as anything else that the company requires. If you’re meticulous, resourceful and organised, this is the job for you. Bonus points if you’re great at building rapport and thrive in social interaction since you’ll need to liaise with third-party stakeholders like customers, clients or vendors.

Having a background in HR would help, but it isn’t a requirement. As long as you’re prepared and willing to adapt to any situation, this job teaches you necessary workplace skills and rakes in the dough.

Companies to look at:

How old do I need to be to work a part-time job?

According to the Ministry of Manpower’s (MOM) employment practices, you can start working from as young as 13 years old, but only if it’s in non-industrial settings, like F&B restaurants. So any kind of warehouse packing job is out of the question. Once you hit 16, you can engage in more physically demanding work.

What are my rights in a part-time job?

You can find all the laws and regulations on MOM’s website, but here’s a summary: you won’t have to work longer than 6 straight hours without any form of a break, unless the nature of the job demands it, like warehouse packing during peak periods. But if it goes up to 8 hours, the company must give you a break for at least 45 minutes for you to makan and take some rest.

You also shouldn’t be subjected to more than 12 hours of work a day unless urgently required.

The commitment period differs for each job. It can be as short as a week, to as long as 3 months. Whatever the period, it will be reflected in your contract, so read carefully before signing on the dotted line to ensure you won’t be forced to commit any longer than what you’ve agreed to. Please check through the terms and conditions closely.

Where can I apply for part-time jobs?

Anything related to job lobangs can be found on Telegram channels and WhatsApp channels. They may also pop up on Instagram as advertisements from time to time.

There are also plenty of dedicated job-hunting websites out there, some notable ones include:

Look out for job scams when applying for part-time jobs

Do be mindful of job scams, which are becoming more prominent by the day. Some telltale signs to look out for:

Extravagantly high pay for low-effort tasks.
The job offer comes to you on messaging apps like WhatsApp or Telegram through international numbers.
The job requires you to use your personal bank account to transfer money for “clients”.
No interview or any form of application is required.

Make full use of your free time with part-time jobs in Singapore

Instead of bed-rotting or doom-scrolling every day on your semester break, take this chance to hone hard skills or gain experience in the working world. Plus, you get to earn money on the side, which is a win-win in our books.

With any of these part-time jobs, you can go shopping in Singapore without worrying about burning a hole in your wallet. Regardless, be careful of overworking yourself to the point of suffering from work burnout.

For other career-related articles, check out:

Cover image adapted from: NTUC Health, The Smart Local
Originally published on 24th August 2024. Last updated by Khalisah Zulkarnain on 10th April 2025.

The post 12 Highest-Paying Part-Time Jobs In SG To Consider For Sem Break If You’re A Broke Uni Student appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

Working In The Environmental Services Industry – More Than Just Keeping Singapore Clean & Green

Khoo Yong Hao — Wed, 09 Apr 2025 16:24:37 +0000

NEA-Industry Scholarship

Despite the ongoing hoo-ha about skipping the morning rinse, Singapore, in general, is pretty clean as far as public spaces go. Matters of personal hygiene aside, the Little Red Dot ranks highly on the list of the cleanest countries in the world, but there’s so much more to the Environmental Services (ES) industry than just exterminating pests, cleaning spaces, and ensuring Singaporeans throw rubbish into the bin.

For more insight on this often misunderstood yet vastly important line of work, we got the chance to speak to 3 scholars who’ve received the NEA-Industry Scholarship. Here’s what they had to say about getting the opportunity to contribute to the ES industry, to ensure that Singapore gets to uphold its title of being a clean and green country with pride.

Seamless transition from tertiary education into the ES industry

You might think that you’d have to start your foray into the ES industry by enrolling into courses explicitly related to going green, such as the Diploma in Environmental & Water Technology, but that’s not true at all.

Just ask any 1 of the 3 NEA-Industry Scholarship recipients we’ve interviewed; none of them enrolled in a field of study that you would conventionally relate to ES. Take Saumya Pravit Rai, 20, for example, who’s currently pursuing a Diploma in Robotics & Mechatronics at Nanyang Polytechnic.

Saumya (on the left) facilitating a discussion about personal grooming and social etiquette as part of his co-curricular activities with Nanyang Polytechnic.
Image credit: Saumya Pravit Rai

He couldn’t quite decide what he’d like to study right off the bat after completing his secondary school education, but after some research, his forward-looking perspective had him settling on a course related to technology and eventually, robotics.

Moreover, he was further spurred on by his childhood passion for saving the environment, as he recounts jamming out to the catchy tunes of the Save My World song from the Saving Gaia initiative of the early 2010s. The COVID-19 pandemic also proved to be quite an enlightening, real-world dilemma of what his work in the future could help alleviate.

“Without cleaning services, Singapore would not be able to disinfect premises safely. This is especially true in high-risk areas such as hospitals, where those with weaker immune systems rely heavily on having a clean environment for general health and wellness,” said Saumya. He put two and two together, and this culminated in his decision to apply for the NEA-Industry Scholarship.

Applying for the scholarship wasn’t difficult at all, as Saumya described. After learning about it through his school, he filled up an online application and attended a briefing thereafter. “This briefing was held to share more information about the scholarship, and for applicants to indicate their desired top 5 choices of industry partners they’d like to work under,” explained Saumya.

Soon, Saumya was scheduled for interviews with the various industry partners who would then shortlist the applicants who were best suited for their companies, and offer them the scholarship.

Hands-on internship experience with a wide range of job scopes

Lih Qing holding her NEA-Industry Scholarship certificate at the CleanEnviro Summit Singapore 2024.
Image credit: NEA

As for Chan Lih Qing, 20, she decided to take her first steps into the ES industry as a scholar with Ravago Manufacturing Singapore Pte Ltd (RMS). It’s one of the largest plastic processing companies in Singapore, and Lih Qing described her internship experience as nothing short of “fruitful and eye-opening”.

Throughout her 22 weeks with the company, she dipped her toes into 4 different departments within the company. “This opportunity gave me a better understanding of how the company’s key business activities are run,” she said.

For starters, Lih Qing was attached to the Production department, where she supported the team in inventory tracking, as well as accounting for scrap plastics and finished goods. Next up were stints in the Maintenance and Qualitative Analysis departments, which required her to take on tasks such as cleaning and updating databases, along with performing tests on finished goods, grading them, and then selling them to customers.

“All these were new experiences to me, and I found this exposure to the ES industry offered to me by the company to be invaluable and exciting,” concluded Lih Qing.

Lih Qing’s AutoCAD file for a school project where she created a blueprint.
Image credit: Chan Lih Qing

Lih Qing even managed to tap into the skills she picked up as a student currently enrolled in Singapore Polytechnic’s Diploma in Civil Engineering course. She was taught how to use the Autodesk AutoCAD software in school, and was thrilled to be able to use it to help her company remedy some space management woes.

She did so by editing RMS’ layout drawing and planning the arrangement of the company’s inventory of finished goods, in order to fully optimise their limited warehouse storage.

Lih Qing (on the right) at a networking event with Joseph Ng, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer of Ravago Asia at the CleanEnviro Summit Singapore 2024.
Image credit: NEA

She also gave credit to her school’s communication modules, as they helped her develop soft skills such as her ability to convey complex ideas both verbally and in writing, which she found to be extremely helpful in the corporate workspace. Lih Qing will be joining Ravago Manufacturing Singapore as a Sustainability Executive upon graduation.

Working with technology for a better tomorrow for the environment

Meanwhile, Saumya provided his expertise in robotics to bolster Primech A&P’s cleaning services sector as part of his internship. His experience as a scholar during his internship was a little different; he had to oversee the company’s in-house cleaning management software and tweak it based on customer feedback.

Saumya (first from the left) with his co-workers at Primech A&P.
Image credit: Saumya Pravit Rai

He also got to fiddle around with the company’s robots and was engrossed in the robotics development side of things. Saumya even took it upon himself to conduct extra research online to do his job to the best of his ability, such as thoroughly understanding electrical circuitry and correctly assembling robotic parts.

There were opportunities for Saumya to put what he learnt in school to practical use as well. He recounted one instance where he was involved in developing an autonomous floor cleaning robot, and it just so happened that it ran on instructions fed to it using the Internet of Things (IoT) communication protocol.

This very IoT communication protocol was taught in one of his modules during Saumya’s time in Nanyang Polytechnic, which made it effortless for him to get up to speed with the rest of his team on the project. He then goes on to explain that he has a hopeful outlook on the future of the ES industry.

Image credit: Primech A&P

“My internship experience has helped me realise the importance of technology in the daily operations in the ES industry,” Saumya mused. “The industry is changing rapidly, and integrating technology into our daily taskings makes our duties less labour-intensive, along with creating a new category of jobs for future young talents.” Saumya looks forward to starting his career with Primech A&P as a Management Trainee in time to come.

Speaking of a more tech-driven ES industry, Cheah Ming Hong, 20, definitely knows a thing or two about working with robots. He’s a student enrolled in ITE College Central’s Higher Nitec in Mechatronics Engineering course.

Having spent his internship at Re Sustainability Cleantech, he has gained much-needed experience that’ll give him a headstart in the ES industry. When asked about how he felt about his time working as an intern with Re Sustainability Cleantech, he described it as an “exciting and special experience”.

Ming Hong beside a robotic arm at school.
Image credit: Cheah Ming Hong

Ming Hong was given the opportunity to program cleaning machines to perform tasks such as scrubbing, mopping, and vacuuming of spillages at the push of a button. “I found the experience of working with these robots to be rewarding, as it significantly reduces the amount of manual labour required to clean up large spaces,” he said. “Furthermore, this eases the workload of my elderly colleagues.”

His compassionate motivations went beyond programming robots, as he also taught his fellow co-workers how to operate these nifty companions. Ming Hong also chimed in with a particularly noteworthy aspect of his internship; he was privy to a behind-the-scenes look of what goes into cleaning a concert venue before the crowds pours in as the artistes take centre stage.

Of course, he carried out his responsibilities dutifully, but was then allowed to stay on to catch the concert; an experience not many people can say they have under their belt. Ming Hong will be joining Re Sustainability Cleantech as a Supervisor ensuring operations excellence.

What is the NEA-Industry Scholarship?

The NEA-Industry Scholarship is a local scholarship by the National Environment Agency (NEA), and is awarded to full-time Institute of Technical Education (ITE) and Polytechnic students who are interested in building a career within the ES industry.

The scholarship is offered in partnership with various industry firms in the cleaning, pest management, and waste management sectors, and supports young talents who demonstrate academic excellence, strong leadership potential, and a passion for environmental sustainability.

Image adapted from: NEA

Polytechnic recipients of the NEA-Industry Scholarship will be awarded up to $15,000 per year throughout the duration of their full-time course of study, while ITE recipients will receive $8,000 per year.

The award includes payment of the scholars’ course fees, compulsory fees, and other allowances. After graduating from their courses, scholars will then have to serve a bond period equivalent to the length of their study in their current course. If they remain with their sponsoring organisations 1 year after their bond period, they’ll receive a retention bonus of $5,000.

Interested applicants can head to the NEA-Industry Scholarship website to learn more about the scholarship or may register their interest here. Pre-requisites include:

Being a Singapore Citizen or Singapore Permanent Resident
Being a Nitec or Higher Nitec Graduate or GCE ‘O’ or ‘N’ Level graduate (for Diploma scholarship)
Being an ‘O’ or ‘N’ Level graduate (for ITE scholarship)
An existing polytechnic/ITE student pursuing a relevant course
Enrolling or currently enrolled into fields of study relevant to the ES industry

Keep Singapore clean & green by pursuing a career in the ES industry

When it comes to the ES industry, many people may have the misconception that it’s all about getting your hands dirty by spending hours carrying out laborious tasks. Although we still require some manpower on the ground to maintain a standard of cleanliness, the industry is still brimming with prospective job opportunities, much like any other sectors.

For instance, scholars will take on professional, managerial, executive, and technician roles in their respective Sponsoring Organisations. Moreover, scholars have previously been offered careers in Data Analytics, Engineering, Management Trainees, Operations, Robotics, Software Development, Supervisory, as well as Sustainability-based roles.

The gradual integration of technology with the plethora of ES-related job scopes is another thing to look forward to. From utilising robots to streamlining work processes to tapping into cutting-edge advancements to propel better sustainable practices, the future seems bright for budding talents looking to make their mark in the ES industry.

Apply for the NEA-Industry Scholarship now

This post was brought to you by NEA.
Cover image adapted from: NEA, Saumya Pravit Rai

The post Working In The Environmental Services Industry – More Than Just Keeping Singapore Clean & Green appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

From Private Banker To Early Childhood Educator, Here’s Why Switching Careers Can Be Rewarding

Michelle P — Tue, 11 Mar 2025 08:02:18 +0000

NIEC conversion courses

Ask any parent, and they’ll tell you that raising a child is not easy. It truly takes a kampung to bring up a child, and their teachers are a big part of that circle of help – what with many young children enrolled in full-day care from as young as 2 months of age.

One might think, and you wouldn’t be the only one, that these preschool teachers are not regarded as professionals, unlike lawyers and bankers. “Aiya, go to school and play with children only what,” you might say. But really, what does it take to be an early childhood educator, and why would anyone give up a successful career to look after children, as some may believe?

In search of a meaningful path in life

Si Qi with her class.
Image credit: Si Qi

It might be the Asian parent’s S-tier dream to have your child be a private banker, but for 36-year-old Si Qi, that high-flying corporate life started to lose its allure as she left her 20s behind. Growing up, she had aspirations of being an early childhood educator – a desire that had taken a backseat when her flair for math, plus Asian upbringing, saw her pursue Accounting and Finance, following in her parents’ footsteps.

Even in adulthood, the misconceptions about early childhood education weighed on her when she initially thought about leaving the banking industry. She looked at options in fields including physiotherapy and healthcare, before she found out about the Diploma (Conversion) in Early Childhood Care & Education – Teaching [DECCE-T (Conv)] at the National Institute of Early Childhood Development (NIEC).

This was a 13-month place-and-train course under the Career Conversion Programme (CCP), where Si Qi and her classmates were attached to a preschool for 2 days each week, spending the other 3 weekdays attending their Diploma courses. The CCP offers significant financial benefits, including course fee sponsorship and a monthly salary, allowing mid-career individuals to transition smoothly while balancing work and study.

Si Qi in class.
Image credit: Si Qi

How this benefited her was the way it “enabled [her] to learn through a classroom setting, while gaining practical insight into the sector. I was on the ground and able to immediately apply and put the knowledge I’d acquired to the test.” This was accompanied by modules focusing on the development of children and child learning, which altogether helped her seamlessly transition into early childhood education.

For work-life balance & to fulfil a lifelong dream

Ellina reading a book in class.
Image credit: Ellina

For 28-year-old Ellina, the step into early childhood education was both a necessity and a longtime dream come true. As paramedics, both she and her husband worked long, unpredictable shift hours, which wasn’t ideal as they wanted to start a family. This proved to be the nudge she needed to pursue her dream of becoming an early childhood educator.

“I’m deeply passionate about supporting and shaping the lives of young children,” Ellina shared, “I’ve seen the impact of early experiences on children’s well-being [in my time as a paramedic], and it made me realise how much I enjoy nurturing and supporting their growth.”

Ellina at her NIEC graduation.
Image credit: Ellina

Her decision saw her taking up NIEC’s Advanced Certificate in Early Years (ACEY) course, which equips applicants to care for children aged 2 months to 3 years. This course similarly includes practicum placements that allowed Ellina to put what she learned in the modules, into practice.

Equipped to understand & nurture even those too young to speak

Her background in paramedicine had given Ellina an essential foundation in child safety and health, but the modules covered in the ACEY equipped her to create a nurturing and engaging environment that supports the cognitive and emotional growth of very young children.

Ellina engaging her young charges with hands-on play.
Image credit: Ellina

What stood out in particular for her was the training in communication skills using scenario-based role playing in class. Working with infants and young toddlers who lack the words to express themselves meant that Ellina needed to understand non-verbal cues such as their body language, facial expressions and sounds.

For these very young children – who are exploring and learning about the world around them, yet wholly dependent on their caregivers – it’s of paramount importance that their needs are acknowledged and met. With the hands-on experience that practicum placement afforded, Ellina found herself able to understand and appreciate infants throughout their moments of happiness and frustration.

“There was one moment when I picked up the infant, and instead of the usual fussing, they relaxed in my arms,” Ellina shared about a child who was having difficulties adjusting to the new environment of day care. “It felt like a huge breakthrough because it was clear that [the baby] had started to trust me and find comfort in my presence.”

Building relationships that stand the test of time

Si Qi with her class of preschoolers.
Image credit: Si Qi

For both Si Qi and Ellina, fulfilment comes in the form of watching their wards progress over the time they spent together. Si Qi, for one, has seen her class all the way through their preschool years. Where she was once struck by her NIEC lecturer’s passion to inspire the love for learning in young children, she’s now proud to know that the children in her class are happy, confident learners, even after progressing to primary school.

As a paramedic, Ellina was always on the move from one emergency to the next. Being an early childhood educator turned that around – “I have the chance to build lasting relationships with the children and their families,” she said, “There’s a sense of connection here that was harder to come by in paramedicine.”

Ophelia with her coursemates.
Image credit: Ophelia

Then there’s 44-year-old Ophelia, who after 10 years of being a homemaker decided to take up a Diploma (Conversion) in Early Childhood Care & Education – Teaching [DECCE-T (Conv)] by taking part-time classes conducted on weekday evenings. This was ideal, since she was able to care for her 4 kids after their school day, before heading to class herself.

Ophelia with her class.
Image credit: Ophelia

Teaching at a church kindergarten that sees intakes of more than 300 children a year, she’s taught multiple batches of children, their siblings, and their other siblings after that. But what she’s found truly rewarding is how they’ve come back to visit during events like sports day and concerts.

Ophelia with one of her kindergarten students.
Image credit: Ophelia

“They were so young when I taught them – you’d think they won’t remember [me], but they do. It’s been fulfilling to see them progress in life, and know that you’ve done something to have them remember you by; that you’ve been an important part of their lives.”

Respect for the job comes from within

Battling skepticism from others, and even overcoming her own reservations about joining the early childhood education sector, was a turning point for Si Qi.

“I explored many career-switch options in addition to early childhood education, initially clouded by misconceptions of the early childhood education sector, but ultimately found my way back to my childhood calling. In the same way that my private banking clients placed their trust in my expertise and integrity, I now recognise the parallel: parents entrust their children to us based on the same crucial qualities – professional knowledge and unwavering character,” she says with conviction.

“It is on us to equip and present ourselves as professionals who have the science, art, knowledge and skills to do what we are doing. As it was with my clients coming to me for banking and finance advice, as early childhood professionals, we need to be the trusted source of knowledge for families, guardians and children who need our two cents and support.”

The lecturers and more senior educators that Si Qi has met in the NIEC course fanned the flames of this passion – she credits the stories and anecdotes that they’ve shared as integral and inspirational to her journey thus far, above and beyond theoretical concepts.

National Institute of Early Childhood Development

Established in 2019, the National Institute of Early Childhood Development (NIEC) was set up by the Ministry of Education (MOE) to raise the standard of early educator training.

NIEC offers a diverse range of courses on early childhood education that cater to applicants of all ages – be it post-secondary students, people looking for a mid-career conversion, or even existing early childhood educators looking to gain more expertise.

This includes courses like the Higher Nitec in Early Childhood Education at the Institute of Technical Education (ITE), or the Diploma in Early Childhood Development & Education at Ngee Ann Polytechnic, and Temasek Polytechnic for secondary school graduates.

On the other hand, the career conversion courses for mid-career switchers allow these applicants to work and study at the same time, drawing a salary and being sponsored for their entire course of study. There’s a variety of class timings as well, with part- and full-time options to cater to applicants’ needs.

There are courses for current early childhood educators too, in the form of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) courses to help them stay up to date with the latest teaching practices. These courses, covering areas such as Outdoor Learning, Inclusive Practice, Leadership, and Mother Tongue Languages, allow educators to continually enhance their skills and better support the development of young children. With flexible options to suit their schedules, educators can upgrade their expertise while concurrently fulfilling their professional responsibilities.

Whichever course one applies for at the NIEC, it includes on-the-ground training through practicum attachments – nothing beats learning through hands-on experience that complements paper learning, taught by a faculty of deeply passionate and experienced early childhood educators themselves.

Mid-career conversion courses to early childhood education at NIEC

Cliched and over-sung as it is, Whitney Houston certainly hit the nail on the head when she sang that “the children are our future” – and it’s imperative that we give early childhood education the reverence and attention our children and their futures deserve. The science backs this up: more than 1 million neural connections are formed every second in the first few years of a child’s life – a feat of nature that will never happen again in every human’s lifetime.

As such, the wealth of potential in every child is centred around the quality of their early childhood experience. It’s when the foundations for their learning, their behaviour, their physical and mental health into their teenage years and adulthood are laid.

Being an early childhood educator is so much more than ensuring the child is looked after for the duration of the school day – you are the hand that shapes who and what they become; the potter to their clay.

“Watching a child’s face light up when they’ve learned something new or achieved a milestone is incredibly fulfilling,” Ellina reflects. Indeed, there’s nothing more precious than the unbridled innocence of childhood, and maybe that’s a fulfilment that you didn’t know you sought, too.

Find out more about NIEC’s courses here

This post was brought to you by the National Institute of Early Childhood Development (NIEC).
Cover image adapted from: Ophelia, Ellina, Si Qi

The post From Private Banker To Early Childhood Educator, Here’s Why Switching Careers Can Be Rewarding appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

How These 3 Working Adults In SG Are Future-Proofing Their Jobs By Taking Part-Time Diplomas

Khoo Yong Hao — Thu, 16 Jan 2025 07:32:49 +0000

Temasek Polytechnic (TP) part-time & post-diploma courses

When it comes to making your mark in any field of work, upskilling is one of the corporate world’s favourite jargon to throw around. No, we’re not talking about the art of siam-ing mountains of workload or honing your foresight to chain MCs and ALs to celebrate an extra-long weekend once the public holidays hit.

Instead, equipping yourself with an updated skillset is the name of the game in this competitive job market, but committing a bulk of our time to full-time courses might not be too feasible, especially for those working a rigid 9-5. That’s where Temasek Polytechnic (TP)’s part-time and post-diploma courses come in.

From opportunities for personal development to gaining a stepping stone for a potential career switch, here’s what 3 adult learners who have experienced the school’s part-time diplomas have to say about them.

Translating studies into applicable work skills

One of the main reasons why one would take up a part-time diploma is to upskill oneself by brushing up on their expertise in a given field of work. For Dylan Law, 28, that was exactly the case, but attaining a part-time diploma was doubly important for the Logistics cum Accounts and HR executive who’s currently working for Panasonic.

Dylan at his workstation at Panasonic.
Image credit: Dylan Law

That’s because in the beginning, he didn’t have the know-how when it came to work regarding logistics, as he graduated from ITE’s Higher Nitec in Human Resources & Administration course.

“Even though I didn’t really like studying, I thought it was important to have at least a diploma,” said Dylan. “Back then I was in the logistics industry for 3 years already, and because I didn’t have any logistics background in school, taking up this course meant I could deepen my knowledge and pick up essential skills.”

Dylan at his graduation last year.
Image credit: Temasek Polytechnic

And so after seeking out advice from his secondary school teachers and some encouragement from his sister, he landed a spot in Temasek Polytechnic’s Part-time Diploma in Business Practice (Logistics Management) course. Dylan was actually awarded the ITE Progression Award, also known as IPA, which is a national initiative under Budget 2024. This incentive helps cover the costs of getting a diploma and increases ITE graduates’ savings for long-term goals like buying a home or retirement.

Dylan successfully completed the diploma course last year, and found his time in Temasek Polytechnic to be immensely fruitful. When asked which lessons he found particularly helpful or interesting, his eyes lit up and resoundingly answered, “All of them”.

The course was an eye-opener for Dylan, as everything was pretty new to him, from being exposed to industry-specific expertise such as distribution management, to learning general presentation skills to aid him in meetings.

In particular, he was thankful for the Business Accounting module within the course. Although he was “not good with numbers”, the module was structured in a way that he could learn about the basics of accounting, and be better prepared to carry out his day-to-day duties. Recently, apart from the logistics side of things, he is putting what he learnt into practice, as he is also in charge of coming up with balance sheets and monthly reports.

Pivoting careers to make a difference for the elderly

Ezekiel aboard a vessel during his days serving as a Navy regular.
Image credit: Ezekiel Hillary Thio Kwan Ming

Of course, not all students who enrol for part-time diplomas head into the course solely with career-driven intentions; take Ezekiel Hillary Thio Kwan Ming for instance. He has a storied work experience, having had a brush with the retail industry which saw him dealing with antiques, arts, and chocolate, as well as an 8-year stint with the Singapore Navy.

Image for illustrative purposes only.
Image credit: Age Well SG

Today, the 55-year-old works as a sales manager in the IT industry, helping companies set up anything and everything computer-related to ensure that their businesses run smoothly. During his spare time, he frequently volunteers at Active Ageing Centres (AACs), which are drop-in communal spaces in Singapore that provide timely access to healthcare and social services for the elderly.

As such, he decided to sign up for Temasek Polytechnic’s Diploma in Gerontology (Community Health & Social Care) in order to get a better grasp of senior care services. For the uninitiated, gerontology is the study of ageing, and diplomas regarding this field of study are sparse, with Temasek Polytechnic being one of only 2 polytechnics in Singapore that offer related courses.

As of writing, Ezekiel is currently in Semester 2 of his 1st year of the course, and he remarked that it has already given him a lot of insight into the industry. He recounted a recent class, where he had to head down to campus in order to learn more about the different walking aids certain seniors have to use, such as various rollator walking frames and crutches that were showcased.

Image credit: Ezekiel Hillary Thio Kwan Ming

Another hands-on lesson that stood out to him was when he stepped into the shoes of seniors who were stricken with chronic illnesses, such as glaucoma. The class provided certain devices and suits for students to wear in order to dull their senses and restrict their movements, to mimic what the elderly who are struggling with these nerve-sensitive afflictions could and could not feel.

“Ageing is not about coping with sickness and getting old,” said Ezekiel. “The course has taught us how to age well, what factors affect us when we are ageing, like our environment, our social health; all these things are things we don’t really think about.”

When asked about the possibility of another potential career switch, Ezekiel hinted that he might make the jump over to senior care in the future. But for now, he has set his sights on graduating with the intention of using what he learnt to further understand and help the elderly who frequent the AAC he volunteers at.

Stacking knowledge to tackle an increasingly digital world

Image for illustrative purposes only.
Image credit: Temasek Polytechnic

The need to future-proof your skillset in this increasingly digital era cannot be understated. Debbie Lim Xin Yi, 30, concurs, which is why she settled on enrolling for the Specialist Diploma in AI Solutions Development course at Temasek Polytechnic, as she had a strong calling for dabbling in all things AI.

This wasn’t the first rodeo the aspiring inventor had with Temasek Polytechnic, as she had prior experience with their Specialist Diploma in Business Analytics course which she graduated from in 2018. Now, she’s back once again to keep up with the fast-evolving job market, by leveraging the pervasiveness of AI in our everyday lives.

“I wanted to learn something related to AI, because I tend to have a lot of ideas, and would like to create something, perhaps a useful app that is impactful for many in the future”, Debbie shared. “I was looking up courses which offered AI-related courses, and when I saw TP’s course outline for theirs, they had this GenAI module which got me very interested, and so I chose TP.”

Image credit: Debbie Lim Xin Yi

The class schedule worked out well for her as she had to strike a balance between studying and working a full-time project management job in a local bank. On top of that, she also realised that she had SkillsFuture credits that were expiring, and since students can use their credits to fund part-time diploma courses at Temasek Polytechnic, the decision was simple.

Some of the modules that Debbie sat for during her time in the course included Building Machine Learning Pipelines, and her favourite, Generative AI in Practice. However, it is actually the former that she discovered to be the most relevant to her current job scope, as it taught her how to build handy dashboards that she uses in monthly meetings.

Going beyond her current career, she explained that she decided to tackle the problem of sentiment analysis for one of her projects in the course. “Online shopping is so widespread these days, and although it’s not too relevant to my career right now, I really want to understand how to do it well in case we do want to build a platform of our own one day,” the whiz said.

Classrooms are filled with people from all walks of life

If you’re wondering about the class timings for Temasek Polytechnic’s part-time and post-diploma courses, classes are typically scheduled in the evening from 7pm till 10pm, so you can head for classes right after your commitments in the day.

Some of the courses are even composed mostly of virtual classes, so you need not make your way to the school’s campus in Tampines to attend lessons. This has proven to be a blessing for Debbie especially, as she can turn up for her classes virtually from the comfort of her home during her Work From Home days.

Image credit: Temasek Polytechnic

The part-time courses at Temasek Polytechnic are also very inclusive, as they welcome students from all walks of life, regardless of their field of work. “We do have a mixture of classmates,” recalled Ezekiel. “I have classmates who are medics, who are from vaccination centres, teachers, and even one who’s in the midst of transitioning from the financial sector to healthcare.”

Another thing you can expect from the classes here is the wide age range of the students. Ezekiel has interacted with classmates as young as 28, and the oldest student he has rubbed shoulders with in class was over 60. Alas, learning is a lifelong journey, and it’s never too late or too early to begin.

Time management & knowing what you want is key

Image for illustrative purposes only.
Image credit: Roots.sg

Time management is essential when enrolling for a part-time diploma as a working adult. In Dylan’s case, he had to give his hobby of performing with his Lion Dance troupe a rest while he had his eyes on his studies, and Debbie relegated her drama binge-watching to happen only during Sundays, which she considers her rest day.

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Image for illustrative purposes only.

As for Ezekiel, we’re not sure how he manages to fit volunteering for his AAC duties, showing up for church events, and spending time with his 2 kids all within his schedule. “It is challenging, but you just need to bite the bullet,” he advised. “It’s doable if we manage our time well, but we also have to be mentally prepared, because we have to manage our stress and emotions too.”

Debbie’s words of wisdom are to be forward-looking and know what you want before enrolling for part-time diploma courses. “I believe learning something meaningful, even if it doesn’t benefit me immediately, is important, as knowing the fundamentals is good to prepare myself for the future,” she asserted.

“Knowing what you want also keeps you motivated, because at the end of day, this diploma will only benefit yourself, so you’ve got to keep this at the top of your mind if not you may get distracted.” concluded Debbie.

What are Temasek Polytechnic’s part-time & post-diploma courses?

Image credit: Temasek Polytechnic

Temasek Polytechnic’s part-time and post-diploma courses are geared towards adult learners, equipping them with emerging skills and knowledge to further supplement their qualifications within a particular industry. The school has over 60 of such courses to choose from which you can learn more about via Temasek Polytechnic’s website.

Image credit: Temasek Polytechnic

Their wide range of courses encompasses various occupational sectors, such as business management and advanced manufacturing. The school even has options relating to this digital day and age, which include the Diploma in Design & Media (Digital Content Creation & Management) and Specialist Diploma in AI-driven Data Analytics courses.

The course duration for their part-time and post diploma courses range from 1 year to 2.5 years, while their Stackable Skills-Based Modular Courses can be completed within 6 months.

The entry requirements for Temasek Polytechnic’s courses are very inclusive, such as just 1 year of relevant work experience to go along with your O Level, Nitec, or Higher Nitec certs. Some of the courses even accept students without any relevant academic qualifications, as long as they have enough years of relevant working experience under their belt.

Enrol for Temasek Polytechnic’s part-time diploma courses

While many of us have already graduated in what may seem like aeons ago, perhaps heading back to school once again is not a bad idea indeed, considering the career prospects a part-time diploma brings about. As such, spruce up your resume and polish your skillset by enrolling in one of Temasek Polytechnic’s part-time and post-diploma courses.

Learn more about Temasek Polytechnic’s part-time diploma courses

This post was brought to you by Temasek Polytechnic.
Cover image adapted from: Temasek Polytechnic, Debbie Lim Xin Yi

The post How These 3 Working Adults In SG Are Future-Proofing Their Jobs By Taking Part-Time Diplomas appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

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