Early Childhood Education (ECE)
Early Childhood Education at Hangzhou International School (HIS) provides everything your child needs to succeed – from world-class teaching to state-of-the-art facilities, all set in a stunning dedicated educational center located in a safe, secure and green environment.
World-class teachers
Our classrooms are led by highly qualified international educators, each bringing a wealth of experience from some of the best schools around the world. Their diverse backgrounds and expertise ensure an exceptional learning environment for every child. Each class has a Mandarin-speaking co-teacher, alongside a student support team that works across the different grade levels. Our teachers create a nurturing and supportive environment where children feel safe to explore, ask questions, and express themselves. They observe and assess each child's progress, with this individualized approach ensuring that every child receives the support and guidance they need to reach their full potential.
Inspirational education
The Early Childhood Education program at HIS draws guidance from best practice around the world, and our teachers’ vast and varied experience. Through our Reggio-inspired approach and centered around the principles of the IB PYP Early Years framework, we create inviting and aesthetically pleasing learning spaces that encourage exploration, creativity, and collaboration. Our teachers embrace the role of facilitators, supporting children's inquiries and providing opportunities for both self-expression and reflection. Our curriculum is built on the principles of play-based and inquiry-driven learning, fostering curiosity, creativity, and a love for discovery in our youngest students.
Best-in-class facilities
Our dedicated Early Childhood building ‘The Cocoon’, opened just two years ago in 2022, is one of the largest and most unique in Hangzhou. Set against the stunning backdrop of lush green mountains, the state-of-the-art building has three floors of fully equipped classrooms, indoor and outdoor playgrounds, a large indoor gymnasium, an Early Childhood library, and a dedicated cafeteria with a nutritious menu perfectly tailored to help young minds grow. The safety and well-being of our students is paramount, with round-the-clock security and a secure entrance ensuring peace of mind for families.
The Lower School at HIS provides a comprehensive educational experience for the Early Years students. Following the principles and practices of the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), the program emphasizes holistic development through engaging and enjoyable activities.
The transdisciplinary curriculum integrates subjects such as Math, Literacy, Social Studies, Science, the Arts, and STEAM within thematic units of inquiry. In addition, our Kindergarten program is enhanced with Singapore Math, Kelso’s Choice Conflict Management, and other Character Building programs. The school also offers specialist instruction in Rhythm and Music, STEAM, Mandarin, and ESOL, learning support, and library to cater to the unique needs and interests of young learners. With a focus on early years education, the Lower School at HIS is dedicated to fostering a love for learning and providing a solid foundation for students.
For further information on the IB PYP Early Years programs, please click on the links below:
Our Early Years Program seamlessly blends the principles of inquiry-play-based practice, with dedicated teacher support.
Through inquiry, children develop critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and a deep understanding of concepts. Our teachers act as facilitators, guiding and supporting children as they investigate, make connections, and construct their own knowledge. We understand that play is the natural way children learn and make sense of the world around them. Play provides opportunities for creativity, imagination, and social interaction.
Teacher support is integral to our program, ensuring that children receive the guidance and scaffolding they need during their play and inquiry experiences. Our teachers are skilled observers, identifying moments where they can extend children's thinking, provoke deeper questions, or introduce new ideas. They engage in intentional interactions, asking open-ended questions and providing meaningful feedback that promotes reflection and further exploration.
By incorporating inquiry play-based practice with teacher support, our Early Years Program offers a balanced and dynamic learning environment. Children have the freedom to follow their interests and engage in self-directed and guided play. This approach fosters a love for learning, curiosity, and a strong foundation for future academic and personal growth.
In summary, our Early Years Program combines the power of inquiry-play-based practice, complemented by dedicated teacher support. We believe that this integrated approach promotes active engagement, critical thinking, creativity, and social development in our young learners. By valuing and nurturing children's natural curiosity and providing a supportive learning environment, we empower them to become confident, independent, and lifelong learners.
Contact us today
We welcome you to visit and discover for yourself why Early Childhood Education at Hangzhou International School is the perfect place for your child to grow and thrive. Contact us today at admissions@hisdragons.org.cn or by calling +86 571 8669 0045.
