DAS Toa Payoh Learning Centre: A New Hub Empowers Children Who Learn Differently

The Dyslexia Association of Singapore (DAS) has officially opened its second-largest learning centre in Toa Payoh, furthering its mission to support children who learn differently. This new facility marks a significant step in ensuring that students with learning challenges, including those without formal diagnoses, receive the help they need to thrive.

The expansion comes alongside a S$300,000 donation from SP Group, which will go towards the DAS Bursary Fund to assist lower-income families. These funds will enable more children—especially those with undiagnosed learning challenges—to access vital intervention services, reinforcing DAS’ commitment to Going Beyond Dyslexia.

Breaking Barriers in Learning Support

While dyslexia affects 4 to 10% of any population, research suggests that nearly 20% of students experience learning difficulties. Many struggle with reading and writing, yet do not qualify for a dyslexia diagnosis—leaving them without access to specialized support.

Recognizing this gap, DAS opened its doors in April 2024 to students without formal diagnoses, ensuring that all children facing learning challenges receive the structured literacy intervention they need.

“The new Toa Payoh Learning Centre represents another step forward in our commitment to building an inclusive society where every learner can thrive, regardless of their family’s financial circumstances. Embracing our ‘Go Beyond’ spirit, we are broadening our support for more children navigating learning challenges,” said Mr. Lee Siang, CEO of DAS.

A Transformational Journey: The Story of Nur Evren Elveera

Eight-year-old Nur Evren Elveera, a Primary 2 student at Zheng Hua Primary School, is one of the many students benefiting from DAS’ expanded support. Although she does not have dyslexia, Evren faced difficulties with pronunciation and writing. Concerned, her parents sought an assessment at DAS, where it was confirmed that while she does not have dyslexia, she would benefit from structured literacy support.

With proactive intervention through DAS’ IReaCH Programme and additional tutoring, Evren has developed effective reading and spelling strategies. Her story highlights the importance of accessible learning support for all children facing challenges, regardless of formal diagnoses.

A New Learning Hub in the Heart of Toa Payoh

Located at Block 240 Toa Payoh Lorong 1, the new DAS Toa Payoh Learning Centre is strategically placed to serve families across central, central-east, and north-east Singapore. Covering 330 sqm, the centre features:

• 11 classrooms to accommodate more students and ease capacity constraints.

• Flexible learning spaces, including adjoining classrooms for large meetings.

• Dedicated staff areas, including a self-service pantry and virtual assistants.

• A library, supporting students in their literacy journey.

Comprehensive Programmes Tailored for Every Child

The DAS Toa Payoh Learning Centre offers a range of intervention programmes, including:

• Main Literacy Programme (MLP) – Supported by the Ministry of Education (MOE), helping over 3,000 primary and secondary students build essential reading and writing skills.

• Specialised Educational Services (SES) – Covering Mathematics, Chinese, Science, Speech and Language Therapy, and non-academic enrichment such as Speech and Drama and ArtVenture.

• IReaCH™ Programme – Focused on reading comprehension and writing skills for students from Primary 1 to Secondary.

• PREP 2 PSLE Programme – Preparing students for their Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE).

• iStudySmart™ Programme – Equipping older students with time management, organisation, and study strategies for higher education and beyond.

A Community Effort: Key Donors and Supporters

The centre’s establishment has been made possible with contributions from SP Group, which donated S$300,000 to support students from lower-income families. Other major donors for 2024-2025 include:

• Singapore Teochew Foundation

• Lim Hoon Foundation

• UOB

• Ishk Tolaram Foundation

• World Vision

Additionally, Signify contributed LED lighting to the new learning centre, enhancing the facility’s sustainability.

Empowering the Next Generation

By expanding its reach with the Toa Payoh Learning Centre, DAS continues its mission to ensure that every child—regardless of financial background or formal diagnosis—has access to quality education and support.

For more information on DAS programmes and bursary support, visit www.das.org.sg.