Early Childhood Programme

The IB at Southbank is more than an education

As part of our Primary Years Programme (PYP), we offer an Early Childhood curriculum for children aged 2*- 5 years.

The Early Childhood framework and our school culture allows our young learners to develop in a safe and caring environment. Children develop social skills, self-management, independence and confidence, enabling them to seamlessly transition to the next phase of school.

Our small class sizes and high child to staff ratios enable personalised attention and very strong and secure adult to child relationships.

Not only do we use London as a classroom. By visiting museums, art galleries, ecology centres, parks, libraries, theatres, but we also include forest school activities (outdoor learning activities in natural environments) to foster a deep connection with nature, stimulate curiosity, and cultivate a sense of responsibility towards the environment.

*Conditions apply

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Jump down to:

Welcoming 2 year olds
Early Childhood Framework
School Environment
Our Teachers
Facilities & Location
The PYP Model
FAQs

Welcoming 2 year olds!

We accept students who are 2 years old to our Early Childhood Programme under the following conditions:
- They have a date of birth between 31st August and 31st December
- They will be turning 3 years old in the Autumn term (September - December)
- They are toilet trained and have the stamina to stay at school without a nap

This will be a collaborative approach between parents and teachers to ensure that your child has the best start to school.

At the end of the academic year your child will repeat Early Childhood 3.

If you are interested in applying, please contact our admissions team.

Early Childhood framework

Inquiry-based learning through play

Our Early Childhood framework focuses on inquiry based learning through play. The aim is to engage and stimulate young children, nurturing their academic, personal and social development.

Our Early Childhood students are encouraged to:
- Make choices and decisions
- Use materials in flexible and imaginative ways
- Initiate inquiry and ask questions
- Work collaboratively with others
- Sustain their interests and extend their knowledge
- Develop an understanding of themselves and the world around them

A wide range of resources are used during activities.

Our Early Childhood students have access to tricycles, bicycles, a climbing frame, alphabet charts, craft materials and paints, books, educational board games, construction materials such as Lego and wooden blocks, water and sand for experiments and free play, and a ‘home corner’ which changes regularly.

School Environment

An engaging, happy and stimulating environment

Our learning spaces are arranged to allow students to move freely between areas designed for reading, writing, art, construction, imaginative play, science and mathematics. These areas are located both indoors and outdoors.

Our Kensington and Hampstead campuses both feature large gardens with climbing frames, sandpits and a wide range of toys and equipment for children to enjoy.

Our Early Childhood students also have access to other parts of our Kensington or Hampstead campus for physical education, library sessions and music lessons, led by specialist teachers. Off-campus trips are regularly organised to make the most of what London has to offer young people.

Welcome to Early Childhood!

“The learning environment is supportive, nurturing, and innovative. The school community is so welcoming and caring. It is a wonderful atmosphere for young minds to grow!”

– Naeema & Taha, parents of Southbank student

“Southbank creates a supportive and loving environment for the students.”

– EC parents of Southbank student

“Southbank provides a style and quality of education that breaks the mould and we feel prepares our son for the demands of real life and the currently evolving future. The focus on units of inquiry, experimentation as well as exploration in a caring and nurturing environment is evidently superior to the more rigid educational systems that schools in London have on offer.”

– EC parents of Southbank student

FAQs...

Why join Early Childhood at Southbank?

Early Childhood allows your young learner to develop essential skills that they will need to thrive in an ever changing world — social skills, self-management, independent learning, and character development. Our focus is not only on building skills and knowledge but also for them to become principled, caring, and reflective. Students work collaboratively and are encouraged to develop kind, thoughtful and supportive relationships with each other. Our teachers are experts in working closely with children to ensure they feel safe and loved.

How different is the Early Childhood programme compared to the one provided in a nursery or at my local school?

The Early Childhood program at Southbank offers a broader scope than most nurseries and local schools. With teacher guidance, students can choose what to inquire into and how to explore their learning in practical ways. Our Early Childhood programme has a strong emphasis on five learning approaches of thinking, research, self-management, social ability, and communication. We also adhere to the IB Learner Profile which focuses on nurturing a student's character and fostering agency in learning .

When can my child start Early Childhood?

We offer an Early Childhood programme for children aged 2 to 5 years. Entry conditions apply for 2 year olds; please contact our admissions team. Applications are accepted throughout the year, and students can start at any point in our academic year, subject to availability.

What is a normal school day in Early Childhood?

School opens at 8.20am. Half day students leave at 12pm, while full day students continue until 3.00pm. During the day, students have a morning break and time for a snack, as well as a break before or after lunch. Children have regular access to outdoor play throughout the day.

Do you accept students who do not speak English?

Yes, Early Childhood staff are very experienced in language acquisition and are here to help! EAL (English as an Additional Language) students enrolled in our social, play-based environment develop their English quickly. By the end of their first term, they use a variety of sentences, progressing to engaging in conversations with both students and teachers in months.

Who will teach my child?

Our Kensington and Hampstead campuses both have fully qualified and experienced Early Childhood teachers and assistants who focus on academic and social development. Our small class sizes enable personalised attention to various learning styles and needs. Our Early Childhood teachers meet families ahead of the student's arrival at Southbank to find out as much as possible about a child and make their transition into our school a happy and smooth experience.

What type of activities do you do in Early Childhood?

Our students engage in a variety of activities and can approach tasks differently based on their individual interests. Some of the activities they enjoy include, but are not limited to: art, construction, mark-making and writing, sand & water/messy play, music, physical education, library, reading, mathematical inquiries, role play, phonics.

Are parents involved in their child’s learning progress?

At Southbank, we view parents as collaborative partners. We communicate regularly and provide observations and feedback. Scheduled meetings are organised to discuss children’s learning, progress reports and how best to support them at school and at home. Parents are encouraged to actively participate in classrooms, sharing expertise and cultural celebrations.

How do you support children with reserved nature?

Our teaching team fosters a collaborative learning environment in which each child's unique skills and interests are valued and celebrated.

Can my child nap during the day?

We accept children who have enough stamina to attend at least half days without the need of a nap.

Are meals provided for my child or do we need to provide packed lunch?

Our Kensington and Hampstead campuses offer a healthy hot lunch onsite for students who stay all day.

Are Early Childhood students required to wear a uniform?

Students are not required to wear a school uniform. For Physical Education (PE) they can choose to wear the school-branded PE kit.

Welcome to Early Childhood!

FACILITIES & LOCATION

At home, in the heart of London

The Early Childhood Programme is available at our Kensington campus in Notting Hill and at our Hampstead campus. Both are relatively small, with each having a maximum capacity of around 220 students. This helps to create a family feel and close-knit community.

Hampstead Campus Virtual Tour

Kensington Campus Virtual Tour

Kensington Campus

Kensington Campus

Hampstead Campus

Learn more about the Primary Years Programme

Learn about the PYP Model

Read our Primary Years Programme Curriculum Guide

View the IB Learner Profile

Begin your Southbank Journey

Enter one of our classrooms and we’re sure you’ll be impressed by the confidence and creativity of our students as well as our exceptional teaching staff.

Your child's learning journey

Early Childhood Years

2* - 5 yrs old (*Conditions apply)

Primary Years Programme

5 - 11 yrs old

Lower Seniors

11-15 yrs old

Upper Seniors

15 - 18 yrs old

Admissions Process

Straightforward and simple

Find out more.

Request our Prospectus

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