Leading Kindergarten in Abu Dhabi

Curriculum Overview 

Play-based learning is the foundation of early childhood education, where children explore, experiment, and make sense of the world through hands-on, meaningful play. This approach respects how young children naturally learn—through curiosity, imagination, and social interaction—and allows educators to tailor experiences to each child’s developmental needs. 

In Pre-K and KG1, play is purposefully structured to support language, motor, social-emotional, and early cognitive development. Teachers observe play and use these insights to guide learning, ensuring each child grows at their own pace while building essential skills in a joyful setting. 

By KG2, the curriculum begins to align more closely with American Common Core Standards, particularly in literacy, math, and science. However, the play-based philosophy remains central, bridging child-led exploration with academic goals. Through centers and hands-on activities, educators combine purposeful instruction with play to support the whole child and ensure a smooth transition to formal learning. 

Through a play-based, inquiry and student-led approach, we create an environment where students can learn at their own developmental pace. We foster innovation, exploration and creativity and ensure social, emotional and academic development are at the forefront of all that we do. 

Zones of Regulation 

In Early Years, we use the Zones of Regulation to help children recognize and manage their emotions. Each color-coded zone reflects a feeling—blue, green, yellow, or red. Through stories, visuals, and calming tools, children build self-regulation and empathy.. 

UFLI Phonics 

UFLI (University of Florida Literacy Institute) Foundations is a structured phonics programme used from KG2 onwards. Through fun, daily lessons, children learn to blend, segment, and decode words—building confidence, fluency, and a strong foundation for reading.

Learning without Tears

Learning Without Tears in Pre-K builds early writing, literacy, and fine motor skills through fun, hands-on activities. Children learn letters, numbers, and pencil grip in a playful, engaging way that supports school readiness and confidence.

Play-based Learning Approach

Our Early Years program is rooted in a rich, play-based learning approach that inspires curiosity, creativity, and a love of learning from the very beginning. Our early childhood specialists create a nurturing and engaging environment where every child feels safe, valued, and supported. Each classroom is led by a qualified teacher and supported by a dedicated educational assistant, ensuring individual attention. Our Early Years student support team, which includes a counsellor, inclusion specialists, and learning support staff, works closely with families to personalize the learning journey, promoting emotional, social, and academic development for every child.

Purposeful Facilities

Our purpose-built facilities are designed to enrich early learning through meaningful, hands-on experiences. Our vibrant Kitchen Lab introduces children to basic science concepts, healthy habits, and inquiry-based learning through cooking and exploration. The indoor pool develops essential aquatic skills and water safety awareness in a fun, supervised environment. Outdoor play areas promote gross motor development, teamwork, and imagination. Our KG library fosters early literacy, storytelling, and a love for reading. The Auditorium provides a space for performances, assemblies, and celebrations—bringing our young learners, families, and wider school community together.

Innovation and Technology

Our research-informed approach ensures that learning remains current, relevant, and engaging in a rapidly evolving world. Every Early Years classroom features a dedicated Makerspace, encouraging design thinking, hands-on exploration, and creative problem-solving. iPads are seamlessly integrated to enhance learning through age-appropriate educational apps, while also promoting digital literacy and responsible technology use. Interactive whiteboards and Apple TVs enrich the learning environment further, supporting visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learners alike—ensuring every child is inspired, included, and actively involved in their learning journey. 

Student Wellbeing

We understand the unique needs of our youngest learners. Pre-K students benefit from a thoughtfully designed daily schedule that includes built-in nap time, allowing them to rest, recharge, and return to learning refreshed. Separate entrances for Pre-K and KG create a calm, age-appropriate start to the day and help ease daily transitions. Mindfulness practices are woven into the classroom through the evidence-based Everyday Speech Curriculum, while the Zones of Regulation program supports emotional awareness and self-management. Our inclusive and nurturing student support team, including counsellors and specialists, works closely with families to ensure every child feels seen, supported, and set up to thrive. 

Outdoor Learning Space

Our brand-new outdoor learning space for Pre-K to KG2 has been thoughtfully designed to reflect the unique beauty and identity of the UAE. Inspired by the nation’s diverse landscapes and heritage, the area features four immersive zones: the Oasis Zone, Desert Zone, Mangroves Zone, and UAE Identity Zone. Each space offers purposeful activities that support sensory, physical, and imaginative development—such as role-play, an open-air theatre, sandpits, hopscotch, tricycle tracks, a gardening area, and a mini road safety setup. Through playful exploration, children build essential life skills while deepening their connection to the culture and environment around them—where learning truly comes alive.