Student playing outdoors

Daily Life & Philosophy

IN THIS SECTION

Gentle Beginnings in Amsterdam

Whether your child is transferring to a new class or experiencing school for the very first time, we aim to make their transition as smooth and reassuring as possible. First experiences of school should always be positive, filled with safety, comfort, and joy. We want all children to develop a lifelong love for learning, to have fun, and to enjoy success in every aspect of their early education.

Early Years at a Glance

For globally mobile families, navigating a new educational system can be overwhelming. Here is a quick guide to how our Early Years classes are structured:

Ages Catered For
3 to 6 years old (encompassing Nursery, Reception, and Year 1).
Global Environment
A welcoming, international community representing over 70 nationalities sharing a historic, light-filled campus.
Language of Instruction
English, with comprehensive and specialised English as an Additional Language (EAL) support for children starting their English language journey.
Modern Classrooms
Every classroom is equipped with interactive SmartBoards and child-friendly access to iPads to safely integrate digital discovery into early learning.

Physical Development, Play & Wellbeing

A healthy, active lifestyle is a central part of growing up in Amsterdam, and we integrate this energy into our daily routine. Our dedicated physical play and fitness programmes ensure that children develop motor skills, coordination, and positive social attitudes from an early age:

Students playing in the school's mini gym

 

Little Stars Fitness

All children in the Early Years School participate in our Little Stars Fitness programme throughout the year. This stimulating, hands-on experience teaches children about health, nutrition, and fitness. Sessions feature active play on mini gym equipment and conclude with fun, child-friendly smoothie making.
 

Student and teacher in the soft play area
Weekly Soft Play & Movement

Nursery children benefit from a weekly dedicated soft play session inside a safe, padded environment that encourages exploratory climbing, balancing, and core physical confidence.

Student dancing during ballet class
Optional Ballet Classes

Children in Nursery and Reception have the unique opportunity to join optional, specialist-led ballet classes held on-site. These enrichment sessions are led by visiting professional teachers from the English ballet school.