The task of choosing a preschool just got easier for parents living in Singapore. The Australian International School has built a brand new early years centre on its campus at Lorong Chuan. Designed by leading architects with expert advice from environmental psychologists and early learning specialists, the new campus promises a purpose-built environment where children are happy and learning.
The Australian International School’s teaching philosophy is inspired by the principles of Reggio Emilia, which acknowledges that an environment that is built for the child is better for the child. That’s why every detail of the school’s exciting new early learning campus has been designed with young learners in mind.
Light and airy classrooms feel like a home away from home
When you’re building from scratch you can create the ideal environment for children. Classrooms are spacious and flooded with natural light. Each one connects directly to its own covered outdoor area, where children might discover a sandpit, a creativity project table or sensory play equipment. They are free to wander to the outdoor space via an inviting child-sized door, so they’ll feel right at home.
Clusters of classrooms promote collaboration and social skills
From their safe and secure classroom environments children are encouraged to play and collaborate with fellow students thanks to a unique clustering design. Groups of classrooms are positioned together to forge feelings of community and sharing. There’s also a class-buddy program, which prompts younger learners to engage with older students for easier transition into the next stages of learning.
Enjoyment and learning beyond the classroom
To encourage play and learning beyond the classroom the new campus offers a range of exciting facilities. Learning to swim is a rite of passage for Australian children. The school’s 22-metre swimming pool is designed specifically for teaching youngsters with a series of concealed resting platforms. Sprawling outdoor play areas with shade protection give children ample space to play and explore. Each cluster of classrooms has its own mini-library and teaching kitchen. Shared across the campus are a range of other shared multi-functional pod areas, a library/inquiry centre and a multipurpose hall for sports, dance, performance and play. Children have a wide choice of places to learn life skills and follow their imaginations.
A curriculum inspired by Reggio Emilia
The school’s teaching philosophy is inspired by the principles of Reggio Emilia, which emphasises the importance the environment plays in education. Inquiry based learning, coupled with thoughtfully designed spaces, encourages children to explore ideas and discover their world. The IB Primary Years Programme is introduced from 3 years old and provides a foundation for success in Prep and beyond.
Bringing parents closer to the child’s education
From the family observation deck at the swimming pool, to a café where parents are welcome to linger and relax, to a parent workshop program that brings parents and staff together to share ideas, expertise and experience, the new campus offers a number of ways for parents to get more involved in their little ones’ early education. And since life isn’t getting any less busy, there’s also an option for parents to design the school week around their family needs so they can spend more time with their children. The parent-teacher link is vital to the success of the child and the design of the new campus actively encourages it.
To find out how the Australian International School could help shape your child’s future, contact our Admissions team on +65 6517 0247 or email [email protected]
