KINDERGARTEN

Kindergarten Section (K.G. 1 & K.G. 2) follows a well developed international curriculum, which is a development-oriented and an activity-based system. The environ­ment and facilities are suitable for every child and makes learning a pleasure. Assessment is continuous and within the designated performance levels and attainment targets. The basic academic curriculum includes English, Mathematics, Environmental Studies, and Arabic along with computer games, music and other fun activities. Within the kindergarten section, all children are supported in developing their potential at their own pace by means of appropriate play activities and a high level of adult input. We offer learning experiences leading to nationally approved learning outcomes and prepare children to progress to the British curriculum at the age of five.

COMMUNICATION, LANGUAGE AND LITERACY

In both small and large groups children are encouraged to extend their vocabulary and fluency by talking, listening and responding to stories, songs and rhymes. Children are helped to understand that written symbols carry meaning, to be aware of the purposes of writing and, when ready, to use drawn and written symbols for themselves. A well-stocked book corner gives every child the opportunity and encouragement to become familiar with books, able to handle them and aware of their uses, both for reference and as a source of stories and pictures.

PERSONAL, SOCIAL AND EMOTIONAL DEVELOPMENT

All children are individually supported in developing confidence, independence and self respect. They are encouraged to work and concentrate independently and also to take part in the life of the group, sharing and co-operating with other children and adults. Through activities, conversation and practical example, they learn acceptable ways to express their own feelings and to have respect for the feelings of others. All children are given the opportunity, as appropriate, to take responsibility for themselves and also for the group, its members and its property.

MATHEMATICAL DEVELOPMENT

By means of adult-supported practical experience, children become familiar with sorting, matching, ordering, sequencing and counting activities forming the basis for early mathematics. As they use their developing mathematical understanding to solve practical problems, children are assisted to learn and use the vocabulary of mathematics, identify objects by shape, position, size, volume and number. Songs, games and picture books help children become aware of number sequences and when they are ready, to use simple mathematical operations such as adding.

KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING

A safe and stimulating environment allows children to explore and experiment with a range of natural and manufactured materials. They learn to observe the features of objects and substances, recognising the differences, patterns and similarities and to share and record their findings. Children are assisted in exploring and understanding their environment, both within the class and also in the wider community. A range of safe, well-maintained equipment enables children to extend their technological understanding, using simple tools and techniques as appropriate to achieve their intentions and to solve problems.

PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT

A range of equipment and opportunities, both indoor and out, allows children to develop confidence and enjoyment in the use of their own bodily skills. A very high level of adult supervision enables children safely to create and meet physical challenges, thereby developing increasing skill and control in activities such as climbing and balancing. The children are supported in the development of their fine motor skills that are required to use tools, including pens, pencils, scissors and handling small objects, with increasing control and precision.

CREATIVE DEVELOPMENT

Children are encouraged to use a wide range of resources in order to express their own ideas and feelings and to construct their individual response to experience in two and three dimensions. Art equipment, including paint, glue, crayons and pencils as well as natural and discarded resources, provides for open-ended explorations of colour, shape and texture and the development of skills in painting, drawing and collage. Children join in with and respond to music and stories and there are many opportunities for imaginative role-play, both individually and as part of a group.

ROUTINE

Each room and group has its own daily routines, these will include:

• Free play, encouraging freedom of choice.
• Snack time, encouraging healthy eating.
• Toilet time, encouraging independence.
• Structured planned educational activities.
• Outdoor play, helping to develop physical and observational skills