Learning Overview
Here is an overview of how we learn at Jumeirah International Nurseries.
Jumeirah International Nurseries follows the British Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework and the International Preschool Curriculum (IPC) to provide children with a rich and distinctive educational experience.
Our curriculum is further enriched by Reggio Emilia-inspired practice, the Curiosity Approach, Positive Education and elements of the Montessori method.
THE KEY TO A WELL-ROUNDED EDUCATION:
We integrate elements of the Reggio Emilia philosophy throughout our curriculum.
This approach views children as capable and competent learners who construct knowledge through their interactions with their environment and peers. We provide a warm and inviting setting that supports children’s creativity and self-expression, using documentation to capture and showcase their learning journeys.
For example, parents may see art displays, photographs or portfolios that reflect their child’s progress and development over time. Teachers act as facilitators and collaborators, allowing children’s interests and ideas to guide the learning process. This philosophy values each child’s voice and gives them a sense of ownership over their learning.
The Curiosity Approach within our programme focuses on providing natural, open-ended resources and environments that nurture children’s curiosity and creativity.
Our classrooms are designed to spark children’s natural sense of wonder and exploration. We use natural resources and materials such as shells, leaves and pinecones for sensory play, alongside open-ended art materials such as playdough made at Jumeirah International Nurseries and recyclable materials for creative expression.
This approach encourages children to ask questions, investigate and make connections, all of which are essential skills for lifelong learning.
Positive Education is at the heart of everything we do at Jumeirah International Nurseries. We understand that a child’s emotional wellbeing and character development are just as important as academic achievement. Our dedicated team of educators creates a positive learning environment in which children feel safe, supported and valued.
We actively teach social and emotional skills, resilience, empathy and mindfulness. By nurturing a positive mindset, we empower children to face challenges with confidence, build meaningful relationships and develop a strong sense of self-worth.
Examples of how we embed Positive Education into children’s daily experiences include morning mindfulness exercises, emotional check-ins, empathy through storytelling and gratitude practices.
The Montessori Approach is an integral part of our Early Years Foundation Stage programme at Jumeirah International Nurseries.
It helps our children develop independence, self-confidence and problem-solving skills. To learn more about this approach and how we embed it at Jumeirah International Nurseries, please click here.
OUR AGE GROUPS AT JUMEIRAH INTERNATIONAL NURSERIES
Our classes are organised into the following age groups:
In Little Learners, babies are encouraged to roll and crawl, while older babies learn to walk and begin feeding themselves.
Babies have daily access to their own outdoor garden area and sensory playground. Natural objects and heuristic play opportunities are provided to stimulate interest and encourage active exploration.
Each Jumeirah International Nurseries centre is equipped with separate changing and sleeping rooms. These spaces provide children with a calm and relaxing environment, while the staff-to-child ratio in the baby rooms is maintained at 1:3.
As children progress from Little Learners to Curious Beginners, child-initiated play is encouraged. Greater focus is placed on developing language and fine motor skills, helping children move with increasing confidence and independence.
Our staff observe children regularly and provide consistent support throughout the day. Potty training typically begins during this stage, and our team helps children become more independent in everyday routines.
Children are highly receptive to new information at this stage, making it an ideal time to nurture independence, a love of learning and an interest in role play.
Many of the behaviours and skills children develop during this period can become lasting habits. We therefore give each child close attention to ensure that they gain the greatest possible benefit from every learning experience.
Children learn through role modelling and simulated play. They are also given opportunities to strengthen their social skills through assemblies, interactive music sessions, puppet shows and sing-alongs.
At this stage, children’s play becomes more complex and purposeful. Drawing on their extensive experience, our staff keep each child’s interests at the centre of learning while supporting, extending and developing their understanding.
The focus remains on keeping children interested, motivated and enthusiastic about learning and further investigation. Free-flow access to secure outdoor play areas, messy play, music, cooking and creative crafts are among the key activities offered at this stage.
Children are provided with a wide range of learning opportunities and are encouraged to apply their skills in different situations and for a variety of purposes.
Through personalised lessons in literacy, mathematics, understanding the world, expressive arts and design, and sport, we provide extensive support for children’s intellectual, physical and emotional wellbeing.
We encourage children to discover the world as they see it, understand the part they play within it and recognise exactly what they are capable of achieving.
Through personalised lessons following the International Preschool Curriculum, we provide extensive support for children’s intellectual, physical and emotional wellbeing, equipping them with the skills and knowledge they need for primary school.
HOW WE TRACK PROGRESS
