Wang Learning Centre Expands to 10,000 Students in 18 Years

Wang Learning Centre has grown from serving just four students to over 10,000 in the span of 18 years. Founded by Wang Jie, the centre has become a prominent institution for Mandarin tuition in Singapore, driven by a philosophy that emphasizes the importance of nurturing students over merely running a business.

From Humble Beginnings to a Thriving Chain

Situated in Singapore, the Wang Learning Centre reflects its founder’s commitment to education, epitomized by a Chinese proverb displayed on the centre’s wall: “It takes 10 years to grow a tree, but 100 years to cultivate people.” As Wang Jie, affectionately known as Wang Laoshi (Teacher Wang), explains, this belief has shaped her approach towards teaching. “It’s very important. One of my favourite sayings,” she remarked during a recent tour of the facility.

Initially, Wang Jie opened a modest 50 sqm outlet at the foot of a condominium. With no grand aspirations to create a tuition empire, she started her journey while working as a secretary after relocating to Singapore in 1995. Starting with just four students, she soon realized her passion for teaching.

A Journey Fueled by Passion and Perseverance

After obtaining a master’s degree in education and psychology in China, Wang Jie found her university teaching role unfulfilling, leading her to seek opportunities in Singapore. She began tutoring children in Mandarin, particularly those whose parents could not speak the language. Her experience at a previous tuition centre, which served over 2,000 students at its peak, laid the groundwork for her future endeavors.

In 2007, while walking in her neighbourhood, she discovered a shop unit available for rent. Seizing the opportunity, she established her first centre, relying solely on word-of-mouth to attract students. By the end of her initial two-year lease, the centre was operating at full capacity, and Wang Jie was teaching 56 hours a week.

In 2009, she moved to a larger facility in Eastgate, Katong, which remains the headquarters of her growing chain. The capacity quickly expanded from 500 to 1,000 students. Although demand from parents for new branches grew, Wang Jie has taken a cautious approach to expansion, focusing on quality over quantity. “If you open three or four at the same time, I can’t manage them all,” she noted.

Education Beyond Business

Despite the success of her tuition chain, Wang Jie emphasizes that education should not be viewed solely as a business. “If you don’t treat the education industry as a business, then you can succeed. Don’t think of it as a business, counting money every day,” she explained. Instead, she prioritizes teaching with heart and ensuring that her students enjoy learning.

The centre adheres to the Ministry of Education’s curriculum, but Wang Jie recognizes the need for supplemental education. While students may write only six compositions a year in school, they can write up to 40 at her centre. This additional practice is crucial for students, especially those whose parents cannot assist them with Mandarin at home.

With nearly 200 teachers on staff and a low turnover rate of about 5 percent, Wang Jie maintains a consistent quality of education. Her son oversees the academy’s digitalization and administrative systems, further enhancing operational efficiency.

Looking ahead, Wang Jie contemplates opening another outlet but emphasizes that any future expansion must not compromise the quality of education. “Maintaining my quality and Wang Learning Centre’s reputation in the market is my long-term goal,” she asserted. She concluded with a nod to the proverb that has guided her journey, highlighting her commitment to ensuring that the centre continues to shine brightly for future generations, including her grandchildren.