Early Childhood Programme

The IB at Southbank is more than an education

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

The Early Childhood framework allows our young learners to develop essential skills early on alongside academic knowledge. They develop social skills, self-management, independent learning and character development, enabling them to seamlessly transition to our Primary Years Programme (PYP) or any other local curriculum.

Our Early Childhood program is enjoyed by both international learners and those who have not previously studied the IB.

We incorporate forest school activities and inquiries into nature within their learning environment to foster a deep connection with our natural environment, stimulate curiosity, and cultivate a sense of responsibility towards nature.

Our small class sizes enable personalised attention to various learning styles and needs.

*Conditions apply

Welcoming 2 year olds!

We now accept students who are 2-years-old on to our Early Childhood Programme under the following conditions:

- Their date of birth is between 31st August and 31st December

- They will will be turning 3-years-old in the Autumn term (September - December)

As long as your child is toilet trained and has the stamina they will be considered.

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

At the end of the academic year your child will repeat EC3.

If you are interested in applying for your child, 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, and nurture 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:
- alphabet charts
- craft materials and paints
- books
- educational board games
- construction materials such as Lego and wooden block
- iPads with age-appropriate apps
- 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 clearly defined areas designed for reading, writing, art, construction, imaginative play, science and mathematics. These areas are located both indoors and outdoors.

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 also regularly organised to make the most of what London has to offer young minds.


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 teachers

Supportive, caring teachers

Absolutely key to the successful delivery of our Early Childhood Programme are our fully qualified and experienced Early Childhood teachers and assistants. Because of our small class sizes, they can focus on the academic and social development of each child and support them appropriately. Where possible, we also meet families in advance of a child starting Southbank to find out as much as possible about a student and make their transition into our school a happy and easy experience.

“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

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.

FAQs...

School starts at 8.45am - half day EC3 students leave at 12pm, while full day students continue to 3.05pm.

During the day, students have a morning break and time for a snack, as well as a break before or after lunch. Children have access to outdoor play throughout the year.

The size of our EC classes is typically 14 to 17 students. This guarantees an excellent staff-to-student ratio, ensuring every child receives the attention they need to reach their full potential.

Our Kensington and Hampstead campuses both have fully qualified and experienced Early Childhood teachers and assistants. Because of our small class sizes, they can focus on the academic and social development of each child and support them appropriately.

Teachers also meet families in advance of a student starting Southbank to find out as much as possible about a child and make their transition into our school a happy and smooth experience.

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

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.

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2* - 5 yrs old (*Conditions apply)

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5 - 11 yrs old

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11-15 yrs old

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15 - 18 yrs old

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Straightforward and simple

Find out more.

Southbank International School


Admissions:(0)20 3890 1969