Early Years

Our learning spaces are thoughtfully designed to ignite curiosity and foster independence in our young learners.

Visitors to our classrooms immediately notice our warm and inviting atmosphere. Our spaces are carefully curated to feel like a second home where children explore, create, and learn at their own pace. Natural materials abound, from wooden blocks and stones to shells and feathers, inviting children to engage with the world around them in a tactile and sensory-rich way.

At ISB, we believe that every child is a capable and curious learner, full of wonder and potential. That's why our learning spaces are designed to be flexible, allowing children to follow their interests and passions wherever they may lead. From cozy reading nooks filled with books and soft cushions to art areas stocked with various materials, every corner of our classrooms invites us to explore, create, and imagine.

Our spaces also promote independence in our young learners. Our classrooms are carefully arranged to encourage children to take ownership of their learning and develop essential life skills. Low shelves filled with materials are within easy reach, empowering children to make choices and engage in self-directed activities. Child-sized furniture allows them to move freely and comfortably throughout the space, fostering a sense of autonomy and confidence.

In our Reggio-inspired learning spaces, children are not just passive recipients of knowledge but active participants in their own learning journey. Through hands-on experiences and meaningful interactions with their environment, they develop critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and a deep love for learning that will stay with them for a lifetime.

Our approach to literacy is rooted in playfulness. We create a language-rich environment where a diverse array of texts is readily accessible to our learners.

Students actively organise and arrange books and materials, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility. Through this collaborative process, they develop an understanding of thoughtful organisation and gain firsthand knowledge of where resources are located and why they are placed there, promoting independence and self-assurance.

Children are encouraged to interact with familiar texts in playful ways, fostering a strong reader identity. Activities such as engaging with story tables and using props to retell stories allow students to immerse themselves in narratives, enhancing comprehension and fluency while igniting their imagination.

Our environment offers abundant opportunities for children to explore writing in meaningful contexts. With access to a variety of materials such as clipboards, paper, and blank booklets, students are empowered to express themselves creatively and authentically.

Context plays a vital role in children's learning experiences, and socio-dramatic play provides a rich backdrop for literacy development in our classrooms. Whether writing a sign for the vet clinic, creating tickets for imaginary travel adventures, or crafting heartfelt cards for friends, children engage in purposeful writing activities that deepen their understanding of language and its functions.

Rain or shine, we step outside to discover, learn, and grow through our school's outdoor learning programme. Weekly outdoor sessions offer invaluable experiences that enhance the development of our early years students in a relaxed and natural setting.

Outdoor learning provides numerous benefits, from improving problem-solving skills to fostering communication and resilience. As children engage in hands-on activities outdoors, they encounter real-life challenges that encourage them to think creatively and work together to find solutions.

Communication flourishes amidst the sights and sounds of nature. Group activities promote collaboration and teamwork, helping children express themselves and share ideas with their peers.

Facing the elements teaches resilience as children learn to adapt and overcome obstacles. These experiences build confidence and perseverance, essential qualities for navigating life's challenges.

Spending time outdoors also deepens children's connection with the natural world. From observing seasonal changes to exploring the beauty of the environment, every outdoor excursion sparks curiosity and appreciation for nature.

Our outdoor learning sessions offer a balance of educational lessons and memorable experiences. Whether it's painting landscapes or building shelters, every activity is designed to engage and inspire our students.

In the Primary Years Programme (PYP), we prioritise early childhood literacy to build a strong foundation for our young learners. We focus on essential literacy skills—reading, writing, listening, and speaking—through interactive storytelling, phonics, and guided reading. Our goal is to foster a love for reading and language exploration, empowering students to become confident and lifelong learners.

Our curriculum emphasises foundational literacy skills like phonics, fluency, comprehension, and vocabulary. Through engaging activities and diverse texts, we encourage exploration and inquiry. Our literacy-rich environment promotes a passion for reading and personalised learning, aiming to instil lifelong literacy skills.

In our Early Years programme at ISB, we integrate PYP principles for holistic literacy development. Through inquiry and hands-on experiences, we nurture a love for literacy. Our personalised approach values each child's interests and abilities. By fostering collaboration between educators, students, and families, we empower young learners to become proficient readers, setting a strong foundation for lifelong learning.