Early Learning School (ELS)

Child-centred learning in Early Years education

The ELS division welcomes children aged 2 to 6. Depending on their age upon enrolment, children may join a classroom in Stage 2, Stage 3, Pre-Kindergarten or Kindergarten.

From day 1, the ELS offers a warm and nurturing atmosphere for first-time learners and their families in an exciting introduction to a world-class education.

ELS Framework

REGGIO EMILIA Philosophy

The Altair ELS framework is based on the principles of the widely adopted Reggio Emilia approach to Early Years (EY) learning. In this socio-constructivist approach, the child is both the protagonist and the creator of the learning process. We develop competent, autonomous, creative children who are capable of co-creating an effective learning practice through acceptance, exploration and discovery. Furthermore, our students obtain the foundational skills necessary to apply their learning effectively throughout their Early Years education and apply their knowledge to the external environment.

For Kindergarten class attendees, teachers and parents are an essential and active part of the learning experience in this transitional year. Families are encouraged to work alongside Kindergarten educators to effectively monitor the progress of social, emotional, physical, and educational development.

Student-centred Approach

Bilingual curriculum

In the Early Years classrooms, we provide an enriching, bilingual curriculum. Spanish and English are the primary languages of instruction for all ELS students. The Early Years curriculum content comprises four units, all of which are delivered through a methodology that promotes active enquiry-based learning in combination with collaborative activities. Our student-centred approach seeks to ensure the acquisition of specific key skills, while encouraging the development of abilities and talents through a varied schedule of stimulating sessions.

In our Kindergarten, EY children enjoy learning inside and outside the classroom. English is delivered via varied educational stimuli, including digital and physical language resources. Kindergarten children are encouraged to learn through independent and group play. As a result of their experience, they thrive in a supportive environment where they feel comfortable. All young learners are listened to and encouraged to communicate their needs and thus express excitement in partaking in daily activities with their friends and teachers.

Specialist Teachers

Personalised support

The specialist teachers in our Psycho-pedagogical Department work closely with the parents of children in the ELS. This collaborative approach ensures personalised support during each stage of their introductory learning process, allowing us to fully attend to the needs of each child with consistency, at school and at home.

Each ELS class is supervised by a designated Tutor, who is responsible for the group throughout the year. ELS Tutors are instrumental in planning and developing valuable learning experiences and monitoring the progress of children in the ELS community. Collaboration is highly-important to ensure the safeguarding and well-being of our children. Therefore, a psychologist is also available to support emotional development and help guide the work of parents.

Early Years Classes

Stimulating spaces

In the ELS division, cultivating an environment conducive to engaging, safe learning is highly important. Our Early Years classes are stimulating spaces that promote inquiry: the ‘third teacher’ in the Reggio Emilia framework. Vibrant learning areas transform the classroom into a place of exploration and variety. Children achieve holistic development across all curriculum areas, via role-playing, numeracy activities, music sessions, and creative lessons. As a result, they gain the ability to express themselves well and engage with new scenarios and their peers with confidence.

Nutrition Programme

At Colegio Altair, it is paramount that we develop an awareness of how to follow a balanced and healthy diet. The Nutrition Programme highlights the importance of healthy eating habits for our ELS learners. A healthy snack is given to Pre-Kinder and Kinder students to enjoy with their lunch each day.

New foods are also introduced in the classroom and encourage young pupils to taste healthy foods, while teaching the importance and benefits of a balanced diet. Nutrition classes also develop independent eating habits and promote good table manners.

Creative Arts and Physical Activities

Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten students

The Kindergarten faculty aims to complement academic development with creative arts and physical activities. Kindergarten learners partake part in music, theatre and dance classes, and weekly P.E sessions are also integrated into the curriculum to support the development of fine and gross motor skills.

All Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten students may participate in sports clubs after-school. After-school activities offer a range of exciting options to choose from and are non-compulsory.