Foundation for lifelong learners
EARLY childhood (two to six years old) is a time of tremendous development. According to Harvard’s Centre on the Developing Child, research indicates that genes provide the initial plan for the brain’s architecture, but experiences shape it.
Evidence shows that the experiences gained in early years are crucial for a child’s healthy development in all areas and are the foundations for lifelong learning.
A strong foundation in Early Years education and the way a child develops during this time affects future cognitive, social, emotional, language and physical development, which then influences school readiness and later success in life.
In line with the Eight Learning Principles of the International Early Years Curriculum (IEYC), Nexus believes that:
> The earliest years of life are important in their own right.
> Children should be supported to learn and develop at their own pace.
> Play is an essential aspect of all children’s learning and development.
> Learning happens when developmentally appropriate teacher-scaffolded and childinitiated experiences harness children’s natural curiosity in an enabling environment. > Independent and interdependent learning experiences create a context for personal development and are the foundation of international mindedness.
> Knowledge and skills development lead to an increasing sense of understanding when children are given opportunities to explore and express their ideas in multiple ways. > Ongoing assessment, in the form of evaluation and reflection, is effective when it involves a learning link with the home. > Learning should be motivating, engaging and fun, opening up a world of wonder for kids where personal interests can flourish.
At Nexus, this means a safe and happy environment for the holistic development of children. Learners are treated as individuals and activities are tailored to their needs through personalised learning. An enquirybased environment is provided where children can explore the world around them.
Play is often underestimated but at Nexus, it is an essential tool woven into all activities. Teachers act as guides in children’s learning and navigate them to find the answers. The aim is to develop leaders who are able to think for themselves, make decisions and communicate their questions and needs.
Children also have many opportunities to develop their knowledge, skills and understanding through hands-on learning.
All activities are carefully planned with a learning intention from four strands in IEYC that provide opportunities for social, emotional, communication, enquiry, music, drama, information communication and technology, art and healthy living development. These learning strands are delivered through exciting themes with links to real life.
All this fun learning is happening right now at Nexus Early Years. The learning experiences will be extended to children as young as 18 months for two hours every Friday morning. Nexus will also launch the Nexus Cubs toddler group on April 20. Toddlers and parents are welcome to join.