Early Childhood Education (ECE)
At HIS, our teachers play a critical role in facilitating this learning process. They 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, tailoring their approach to meet individual needs and interests. This individualized approach ensures that every child receives the support and guidance they need to reach their full potential.
Our ECE program is thoughtfully designed, drawing guidance from the Australian Early Years curriculum "Belonging, Being and Becoming," while also incorporating the principles of the IB PYP early years framework and embracing a Reggio-inspired approach. This unique combination creates a comprehensive and enriching learning experience for our young learners.
Our program recognizes the importance of children's sense of belonging, their identity formation, and their active participation in their learning journey. We adhere to the curriculum's principles, ensuring that our program aligns with the developmental needs and learning outcomes outlined for the early years.
The PYP Early Years framework emphasizes inquiry-based learning, encouraging children to explore their interests, ask questions, and make connections. By fostering a sense of curiosity and empowering children as active learners, we lay the groundwork for their future academic and personal growth.
Through the Reggio-inspired approach, 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 self-expression and reflection.
By combining these elements, we create a dynamic and inclusive learning environment that supports the holistic development and future success of our youngest learners.
Collaboration and meaningful relationships are at the heart of our PYP and Reggio-inspired approach. We value the active involvement of teachers, caregivers, and families in the learning process. Through ongoing dialogue, we create a strong partnership that supports each child's growth and development. We believe that by working together, we can provide a nurturing and enriching environment where children feel valued, respected, and supported.
In our Reggio-inspired Early Years Program, we honor and value every child's unique strength, skills, and interests. We create a safe and inclusive space where children are encouraged to take risks, make choices, and pursue their passions. By offering a balance of child-initiated and teacher-guided activities, we support children in developing independence, autonomy, and a lifelong love for learning.
In summary, our Early Years Program integrates the IB PYP early years framework with a Reggio-inspired approach. We believe that this combination provides a rich and meaningful educational experience that nurtures children's natural curiosity, creativity, and love for learning. Through inquiry-based exploration, collaborative partnerships, and a focus on the arts, we aim to empower our young learners to become confident, compassionate, and lifelong learners.
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.
