AN INCLUSIVE NON-PROFIT IB WORLD SCHOOL

Above Nav Container

Hangzhou International School
Hangzhou International School

Utility Container

Button (Container)

Search Trigger (Container)

Mobile Menu Trigger (container)

Off Canvas Navigation Container

Close Trigger (container)

Search

Early Years

Our Early Years program is built upon an inquiry-play-based continuum, which serves as a strong foundation for supporting early childhood learning. This continuum seamlessly integrates the principles of inquiry-based learning and play-based practice to create a comprehensive and engaging educational experience for our young learners.

At the heart of our program is inquiry-based learning, which encourages children to explore their interests, ask questions, and actively participate in their own learning process. Through inquiry, children develop critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and a deep understanding of concepts. We foster a sense of curiosity and nurture children's natural inclination to investigate the world around them.

Play-based practice is another fundamental component of our continuum. We recognize that play is the primary mode through which children learn and make sense of their experiences. Play provides opportunities for creativity, imagination, and social interaction. It allows children to develop cognitive, emotional, and physical skills in a natural and enjoyable way. We create a supportive environment that encourages various types of play and provides materials that stimulate children's interests and promote exploration.

We believe that inquiry and play are not separate entities but rather interconnected and mutually reinforcing. Play provides a context for inquiry, while inquiry enriches and extends children's play experiences.

Our teachers play a vital role in supporting children's learning within this continuum. They observe, listen, and engage in intentional interactions with children to extend their thinking, provoke deeper questions, and introduce new ideas. Teachers provide scaffolding and guidance, allowing children to explore and discover while ensuring a balance between child-initiated and teacher-guided experiences.

By embracing the inquiry-play-based continuum, our program promotes active engagement, critical thinking, creativity, and social development in our young learners. It recognizes that children learn best when they are actively involved, have agency in their learning, and can make meaningful connections to their experiences.

Through this approach, we nurture children's curiosity, foster their love for learning, and provide a solid foundation for their future growth and development.

Our Team

Joyce Chen

Joyce Chen

Titles: Lower School Mandarin Co-Teacher
Nina Grizzle

Nina Grizzle

Titles: Early Years Teacher
Emma John

Emma John

Titles: Early Years Teacher
Carolina Perdomo

Carolina Perdomo

Titles: Early Years Teacher
Alpha Shen

Alpha Shen

Titles: Lower School Teaching and Learning Assistant
Sunny Sun

Sunny Sun

Titles: Lower School Mandarin Co-Teacher
Anna Wang

Anna Wang

Titles: ECE Rhythm and Movement Assistant