Sri KDU International School, Kota Damansara
by Cindy Fernandez .
on 11/04/2023
2758
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Highlights
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- Focusing on 7 key areas of learning
- An ideal balance of play and learn for optimal learning outcome
- The British ‘Early Years Foundation Stage’ and National Curriculum frameworks
- Positive parent-school relationship in the best interest of the children
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In August 2022, the Early Year Centre of the Sri KDU International School Kota Damansara opened its door for operation, providing the golden opportunity for parents of children between the ages of 3-5 years to opt for a great head start for their precious young ones. Kiddy123 spoke to Mr. Gareth Barnaby, the Head of Primary School recently, to learn more about this latest offering at the acclaimed international school in Kota Damansara.
Play is a synonym for learning when it comes to little children. The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) at Sri KDU follows the British ‘Early Years Foundation Stage’ and National Curriculum as a framework, where there is an ideal balance between child-initiated and adult-led activities which help ignite children’s natural inquisitive tendencies, which in turn helps them understand more of what is happening around them.
The EYFS play-based learning approach allows students to engage and enjoy their learning experience. The staff provide an individual learning approach to help meet the unique needs and interests of each child in a safe and engaging environment.
The most ideal setup for little ones to play and learn
The specially designed area of learning for the EYFS was newly built in August 2022, as shared by Mr Barnaby. “The outdoor area has a variety of specialised areas to support learning whilst being protected from the weather. The floor is made from a form of rubber that protects children when they fall, and it also has a number of different designs to encourage play. Student toilets and sinks are sized appropriately for their age group to support and encourage independence. Our classrooms are air conditioned with a variety of different areas for learning including reading areas, tables and chairs for independent learning, carpeted areas for class discussion and interactive screens, among other features.
EYFS 7 key areas of learning
When asked about the learning outcomes prioritised by the school, Mr Barnaby replied, “Within the EYFS framework for the education and care of children, there are seven key areas that we focus on, and they are:
- Communication and Language, which is an area focused on developing children's communication and listening skills, such as understanding, using language, and engaging in conversations.
- Physical Development, which is the development of children's physical skills, including gross motor skills like running and jumping, and fine motor skills like holding a pencil.
- Personal, Social and Emotional Development, focusing on developing children's emotional wellbeing, self-confidence, and relationships with others.
- Literacy, an area aimed at developing children's early literacy skills, such as reading and writing, and fostering a love for books and storytelling.
- Mathematics, an area focusing on the development of children's understanding of numbers, shapes, and patterns, as well as problem-solving and reasoning skills.
- Understanding the World, which develops children's understanding of the world around them, including people and communities, the natural world, and technology.
- Expressive Arts and Design is aimed at developing children's creativity and imagination, such as exploring different materials and media for art, music, and drama.
The EY programme of Sri KDU International School Kota Damansara runs from 8.00am – 2.20pm, with the young students having an option to join the co-curricular activities (CCA) after school. A variety of different clubs and activities that are changed every term are offered by teachers and external providers. These include Zumba Dance, Mandarin, Art, Messy Play, Mix Media Art and Creative Dance.
Experienced teachers with ideal educational background
Teachers are selected based on the educational background and work experience. “During the selection process we ensure that teachers share our philosophy of a kind and supportive environment for students to grow and learn. It is also just as important for us as a school to ensure that our teachers receive continuous professional development to help and support them in their understanding of changes that happen in the curriculum and throughout the education system,” Mr Barnaby explained.
Establishing a positive parent-school relationship
There are open communication channels established between parents and teachers to build an important positive relationship between families and school. With regular updates from parent-teacher conferences, newsletters and weekly updates, it helps to keep parents informed about their child's progress, activities and events. Mr Barnaby also shared that each week, the school also distributes its newsletter with pictures and articles from around the school, celebrating the learning that has been happening and showcasing events. “Our class teachers also share a weekly update of reminders, notices and learning intentions for the week to come. This helps ensure that parents know what to do to prepare for the upcoming week.” Besides that, there are many other ways too, for parents to get involved inside and outside the school community. “We encourage parent volunteers who are able to assist with school events, classroom activities and fundraisers. We provide parent workshops on academic topics, child development and student wellbeing. These help parents to better understand what their child is experiencing and learning,” Mr Barnaby deliberated.
“Our EYFS programme offers children the opportunity for socialisation and peer interactions. Their relationship will develop and grow as they move within the school, improving their social skills and self-confidence. The curriculum and setting prepares the children for learning in later years, instilling a love of learning to foster a lifelong curiosity and thirst for knowledge,” My Barnaby concluded.
Secure your child's place at Sri KDU International School, Kota Damansara for the August 2023 intake and give your child a top-notch international education. Don’t miss the opportunity to avail a 50% rebate on the application fee!
