Early Childhood and Elementary School

Children at the Pre-school level are just becoming acquainted with the world and everything in it. Our team of specialized Early Childhood educators are experienced in leveraging these new experiences and turning them into learning moments.

Our theme-based approach permits the children to focus on a single topic; they make connections across discipline areas. Academic subjects such as Mathematics, Languages, Science, Social Studies are integrated and taught under one particular theme for more meaningful learning. Language learning focuses on reading, writing, oral and visual expression. The Mathematics program aims to help children make links between mathematical concepts and real life. The Science program builds the foundation for exploring the world through the scientific method. The beginning of Social Studies in early childhood focuses on the self; feelings, positive relationships, health and wellbeing, and rules and routines are all explored.

The curriculum aims to nurture all domains of a child’s learning: intellectual, social, emotional, and physical. Physical activity and the nurturing of the artistic self are vital aspects of the early childhood curriculum Children are taught basic motor skills in a safe environment through games and music. At this stage, it is important to establish foundations for healthy living. Social skills are developed through group activities where emphasis is placed on working as a team. All activities serve to increase the children’s confidence and enable them to become independent learners.

We see the Elementary School as one of the key building blocks to students’ development and future success. We therefore believe in a well structured approach to our teaching with a clear set of goals. The academic program will prepare all students to be literate, responsible citizens with an enthusiasm for life-long learning. The essential elements of Eastwood College’s Elementary Program are:

• a rigorous curriculum aligned to national and international standards
• curriculum and instruction designed to ensure that every student will be able to achieve academic success
• high expectations for all students
• differentiated instruction and use of multiple sources of data to assess student progress

Nurturing staff member guide students to take responsibility for their own learning opportunities.

A homeroom teacher is responsible for a grade level and serves a pastoral role for students, as well as an educational one. During homeroom time, students tackle social, personal and health issues within a citizenship and character building program. All students attend weekly assembly sessions in which international and local guest speakers discuss moral topics through a values-based program.