After reading about our approach, you might naturally find yourself wondering: if the early childhood years do not emphasise reading and writing, when do formal academics begin? These are important questions.
To begin with, our intention is for the school to grow steadily, eventually extending all the way up to Grade 10. In these early years, we intend to lay strong foundations and learn what it takes to do this well. As the children grow, the school will grow along with them.
At school, we begin formal academics around the age of six, when children enter the primary grades. By this age, children are usually ready for the kind of learning that reading, writing, and mathematics require. They have developed stronger coordination, longer attention spans, richer language, and a growing ability to think more abstractly. Because the foundations have been carefully nurtured in the early years, academic learning can unfold with greater ease and confidence.
Reading and writing
Literacy is introduced in an imaginative way. Letters often arise out of stories, drawings, and pictures. Children begin by writing - forming letters and words through drawing and movement - and gradually move into reading what they have written.
Mathematics
Mathematics begins through rhythm, movement, and hands-on experiences. Children explore numbers, patterns, and the four operations in ways that feel lively and engaging.
Story-based learning
Stories continue to play an important role. Folk tales, nature stories, and cultural tales are used to introduce language and imagination.
Integrated learning
Academic learning is closely connected with art, music, movement, and craft. Children illustrate their lessons, sing, paint, recite poetry, and work with their hands. Learning remains active and creative rather than purely abstract.
The intention is that by beginning academics at the right time, children meet learning with enthusiasm and a genuine love for discovery. Rather than rushing children into academics early, this approach trusts that when the time is right, learning unfolds naturally and deeply.
← Back to further reading