To ensure the most effective Early Years approach for our pupils, we have merged the English Early Years Foundation Stage and the Chinese Curriculum (from three to six years) guidelines. The result is an encompassing curriculum and Hiba framework for teaching and learning.
There are seven areas of learning and development that shape our educational programmes.
These are comprised of three prime areas and four specific areas. Moreover, as a bilingual nursery, we work towards learning outcomes in communication and language and literacy in both English and Chinese.
The three prime areas are crucial for igniting children’s curiosity and enthusiasm for learning and for building their capacity to learn, form relationships and thrive.
Personal, social and emotional development
Communication and language
Physical development
Underpinning all areas of learning and development are the Characteristics of Effective Learning. These are a set of skills divided into three main areas that focus on how children learn.
Many of these skills relate to children’s ability to reflect, help themselves, be self-motivated and adopt a 'can do' approach to learning and new challenges.
Learning is constantly developed through play-based activities. These are centred around a range of projects or themes whereby pupils are invited to share what they already know and, with the help of the adults around them, research the theme in greater depth.
The seven areas of learning and development are interrelated. Children’s knowledge, understanding and confidence are therefore taught through this pedagogical approach.
By providing a curriculum designed to challenge, motivate and inspire curiosity, we allow them to delight and experience success. We can also provide support for gaps in learning, so children can move forward with their personal and academic achievements.
Each area of learning and development has a set of desired and age-appropriate learning outcomes.
We monitor these through observational assessment as the children engage in independent play. We record individual assessments of each child. They include an individual record of their achievements throughout each year, documented in a 'learning story' or 'journey'. This is then shared with the pupil and parents.
