ESF Hillside International Kindergarten

ESF Hillside International Kindergarten has eight classes, four in K1 and four in K2. Children start K1 in the year in which they are three years old. Children attend the kindergarten on a part time basis, five morning or five afternoon sessions per week, with sessions being three hours long. The school community is diverse with children and staff coming from a variety of ethnic groups, and we are able to draw on this cultural richness to enhance teaching and learning.

In January 2014 we were authorised as an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, delivering the Primary Years Programme (PYP). Through their inquiry into four of the six PYP transdisciplinary themes each year, the children in both K1 and K2 develop knowledge and understanding, as well as skills and attitudes that they can use in Kindergarten and take with them into their future learning.

At ESF Hillside International Kindergarten, play is the primary mode of learning and the learning environment is set up to promote inquiry through a broad range of play opportunities that promote creativity, critical thinking, and communication. At Hillside International Kindergarten, the students develop their sense of self, and further develop the skills necessary to nurture positive friendships with other children. They become more aware of their place in the wider-world. Staff work with children on adult-initiated inquiries and to support those that are child-initiated.

The attributes of the learner profile have a significant place within our school and are acknowledged in the actions and achievements of both our children and staff.