Enter the Early Years classrooms at Smart Vision School and discover an environment crafted with the needs of children at its core. Instead of plastic and brightly colored toys, young learners engage with baskets filled with shells, pinecones, textiles, and wooden blocks. These serene, natural settings are meticulously designed to make children feel at ease while stimulating their imagination.
Paisley Orchard-Brown, Head of Early Years, discusses how this distinctive approach enhances learning.
What makes your EYFS provision unique?
Our classrooms exude warmth and a sense of home, helping children feel comfortable. Natural items promote open-ended play. A few beans might become hidden treasure, while wooden blocks turn into majestic castles. This freedom enables children to experiment, imagine, and innovate.
How does this benefit children’s growth?
Play-based learning develops more than just academic skills. It fosters problem-solving, resilience, and self-assurance. One parent recounted how their child proudly concocted “herbal soup” with dried leaves and lentils, a fun activity that incorporated creativity, communication, and early math. This joy of discovery is what we aim for every child to experience.
Is your approach rooted in a specific philosophy?
We draw inspiration from The Curiosity Approach™, which integrates Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Steiner, and Te Whāriki. It’s about infusing awe and wonder into everyday learning, ensuring children leave school eager, inquisitive, and prepared for the future.
At Smart Vision School, Early Years is not merely the initial step in education. It’s the foundation of confidence, creativity, and a passion for learning. Smart Vision School is now part of the International Schools Partnership (ISP), a global network with over 100 schools across more than 25 countries.
For more details, visit: Smart Vision School.
