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Early Years
Ages 3 to 4
Where Curiosity Begins and Confidence Grows
The Early Years are a remarkable stage of childhood, where curiosity flourishes, confidence begins to develop and a lifelong love of learning is first inspired. At Concord College International School, we provide a nurturing and stimulating environment where every child is encouraged to explore, discover and grow at their own pace.
Following the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, our programme combines purposeful play with carefully planned learning experiences, laying strong foundations for future academic success whilst supporting each child’s personal, social and emotional development.
A Nurturing Beginning
A Strong Start to Lifelong Learning
Children learn best when they feel happy, secure and valued.
Our Early Years classrooms are thoughtfully designed to encourage exploration, creativity and independent thinking. Through meaningful interactions with experienced teachers and engaging learning experiences, children develop the confidence to ask questions, solve problems and express themselves with increasing independence.
Every child is recognised as an individual, and we celebrate their unique strengths, interests and achievements as they begin their educational journey.
A Balanced Curriculum
Our Approach to Learning
The Early Years curriculum provides a balanced approach that nurtures children’s academic, social, emotional and physical development.
Learning is carefully planned around children’s interests, encouraging them to investigate, create and collaborate through purposeful play and structured activities.
Our experienced teachers guide and extend each child’s learning by creating opportunities that inspire curiosity, develop language and communication skills, strengthen early mathematical understanding and foster creative expression.
Above all, we seek to create an environment where children develop confidence, resilience and a genuine enjoyment of learning.
Seven Areas of Learning
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)
Our programme is guided by the principles of the Early Years Foundation Stage, providing children with a broad and balanced curriculum that supports their development across all areas of learning.
Personal, Social & Emotional Development
Forming positive relationships, managing feelings, and developing self-confidence and self-awareness.
Communication & Language
Developing speaking, listening, and understanding through stories, conversations, and imaginative play.
Physical Development
Building coordination, control, and movement through indoor and outdoor activities that promote health and wellbeing.
Literacy
Building the foundations of reading and writing through phonics, storytelling, mark-making, and access to a rich range of books.
Mathematics
Developing counting, number recognition, shape, space, and measure through hands-on exploration and play.
Understanding the World
Exploring the physical world, their community, and technology through observation, investigation, and first-hand experiences.
Expressive Arts & Design
Exploring media and materials, and sharing thoughts and feelings through art, music, movement, dance, and design.
Through a combination of child-initiated exploration and carefully structured teacher-led experiences, children develop the essential knowledge, skills and attitudes that prepare them confidently for Primary education.
Purposeful Play
Learning Through Play
Play is an essential part of childhood and an important foundation for learning.
Within our Early Years classrooms, purposeful play encourages children to explore ideas, develop friendships, build confidence and make sense of the world around them.
Whether investigating nature, constructing models, creating artwork, enjoying imaginative role play or participating in music and movement, children are continually developing the curiosity, creativity and problem-solving skills that underpin future learning.
Life in the Early Years
Moments from Our Classrooms
Candid glimpses of a typical week — Reception lessons, outdoor exploration, music, and the friendships that shape each child’s first years at Concord.
Partnership with Parents
A Caring and Supportive Environment
Children flourish when they feel safe, respected and encouraged.
Strong relationships between teachers, children and families create a nurturing environment where every child feels valued and supported throughout their early years of education.
Our teachers work closely with parents to understand each child’s development, celebrate achievements and ensure that learning continues seamlessly between home and school.
Together, we create a positive partnership that supports every child’s wellbeing and development.
An Exciting Milestone
Preparing for Primary
The transition from Early Years to Primary represents an exciting milestone.
Through carefully planned learning experiences and increasing independence, children develop the confidence, knowledge and social skills required for the next stage of their educational journey.
By the time they move into Primary, they are well prepared to embrace new opportunities with enthusiasm, resilience and a genuine love of learning.
Discover Primary
Explore how our Primary programme builds upon the strong foundations established during the Early Years, continuing each child’s journey of academic and personal growth.