Early Years Curriculum

International Preschool at ISSP

Your child’s first experiences of school are the key to laying the foundation for a successful learning journey. It is therefore crucial that these early experiences are positive and developmentally appropriate.

Run by our highly specialized teachers, the Early Years program in ISSP delivers a balanced curriculum that focuses on the development of both the interpersonal and academic skills of the child. It is well-aligned with our dominant pedagogy which is the IB PYP Framework, the Reggio Emilia-inspired teaching and learning approach bespoke to our school.

The Early Years in the IB PYP

At ISSP, quality learning experiences during the early years are supported through the IB PYP’s constructivist and social constructivist approach to learning.

The PYP transdisciplinary framework is designed to support the development of key cognitive and social emotional abilities for Early Years students, through play and student-led learning engagements.

Whilst, inquiring through play in the early years supports the notion that learning is an active process. Healthy learning environments and supportive relationships further support this learning process.

Reggio Emilia-inspired Approaches

Developing a love for learning

The image of the child lies at the heart of our play-based approach, which is inspired by the principles of the Reggio Emilia philosophy. We are influenced by the developmental milestones to successfully achieve learning outcomes. The children’s voices are heard and respected which guides us to create authentic experiences and meaningful learning environments.

Dedicated learning spaces

World class facilities for little children

Conveniently located 5 minutes from the city center, our ISSP campus is purpose-built to deliver the highest quality education. Our advanced learning environment includes classrooms equipped with interactive whiteboards, a library housing over 18,000 English books, and a state-of-the-art ICT lab. Children enjoy recess and lunchtimes in our Early Years interactive outdoor play areas. Motor skill development takes place in our on-site swimming pool, indoor soft play gym, and outdoor sports field, while creative experiences are enjoyed in our specialist visual arts and music classrooms.

Motor Skill Development

Highlighted by the Smart Steps Program

It is important for young children to learn how to move their bodies with coordination and balance. Aside from the variety of unstructured free play, students in the Early Years are also offered a structured Physical Education (PE) program which reinforces the development of their gross motor skills.

Nurturing Creativity and Self-expression

in our specialist arts classrooms

Starting at 18 months old, students in the Early Years begin a rich journey in the visual arts through their exploration of colors, textures, and other art elements. Offering a variety of art activities also helps young children to develop their fine motor skills that are essential to perform daily tasks such as buttoning, zipping, using utensils, or wearing shoes. This creative journey continues with music opportunities delivered in specialized music classrooms, where students cultivate their self-expression, imagination, and confidence.

After-school Activities

Over 15 enrichment opportunities

Our extensive After School Activities (ASAs) Program allows our students to explore their talents and enhance their creative, cultural, and athletic capacities with like-minded students. For the Early Years level, there are over 15 engaging activities specialized for young children. The common bonds and friendships created in these groups form the basis of ISSP’s close-knit community and rich school culture.

An Example of Early Years Timetable at ISSP

Rotation Day	Day A	Day B	Day C	Day D	Day E	Day F
8:00 – 8:45	Circle Time	Learning Engagement	Learning Engagement	Learning Engagement	Circle Time	Learning Engagement
8:45 – 9:25	Host Country Studies	Learning Engagement	Physical Education	Learning Engagement	Host Country Studies	Physical Education
9:25 – 10:10	Learning Engagement	EY Library	Circle Time	Circle Time	Learning Engagement	Circle Time
10:10 – 10:35	Snacks / DEAR (Drop Everything And Read)
10:35 – 11:20	Outdoor Recess
11:20 – 12:00	Lunch
12:00 – 1:30	Nap
1:30 – 1:45	Snacks
1:45 – 2:00	Learning Engagement		Learning Engagement	Learning Engagement		Learning Engagement
2:10 – 2:50	Music	Smartsteps	Learning Engagement	Art	Smartsteps	Learning Engagement
2:50 – 3:00	Afternoon Meeting
3:15 – 4:15 (Only for EY3 and above)	After School Activities	After School Activities	After School Activities	After School Activities	After School Activities	After School Activities