At Oakland International British School, our Early Years Department follows the EYFS (Early Years Foundation Stage) curriculum, nurturing children from 3 months to 5 years through play-based, hands‑on learning. Our goal is to foster curiosity, confidence, and holistic development in a warm, supportive environment.

Little Acorns (3–16 months)
In our Little Acorns class, the youngest learners settle into a secure, playful nursery routine complete with a dedicated sleeping room for nap times. Their development milestones include:
Physical: Lifting head, rolling, grasping toys, beginning to sit and crawl
Communication: Cooing, babbling, responding to sounds, and their name
Social & Emotional: Smiling, forming attachments, expressing basic emotions
OIBS nurtures these early milestones through sensory play, face‑to‑face time, and responsive caregiving.

Explorer Class (16–24 months)
As Explorers develop mobility and independence, we guide them with caring support to reach key milestones:
Physical: Walking, climbing, scribbling, feeding themselves
Communication: Using first words, 2–3-word phrases, pointing to items;
Thinking & Social Skills: Solving basic puzzles, engaging in pretend play, starting parallel play, showing empathy.
Our Explorer program blends creative play with guided exploration to build confidence and curiosity.

Playgroup (from age 2 by August 31st)
In Playgroup, children delve deeper into foundational learning.
Learning to communicate: Exploring sounds, words, and turn-taking;
Early number sense: Recognising and counting objects in playful contexts;
Play & Social Growth: Engaging in imaginative play, refining motor skills, sharing and following routines;
Our classroom is rich with storytelling, songs, sensory tables, and group activities that encourage expressive language and early maths understanding.

Nursery (3–4 years) & Reception (4–5 years)
In Nursery and Reception, children mature across all seven areas of EYFS, active, joyful, creative, and collaborative learners:
> Communication & Literacy: Expanding vocabulary, listening to stories, beginning phonics
> Mathematics: Counting reliably, understanding shapes, simple problem-solving;
> Physical Development: Running, climbing, early writing, and scissors skills;
> Personal & Social Growth: Cooperative play, self-care, emotional literacy;
> Understanding the World: Exploring science, nature, technology
> Expressive Arts & Design: Creating artwork, role play, singing, dancing;

Early experiences like Thank God It’s Friday! celebrate milestones, build community, and prepare children confidently for Reception graduation.

Why OIBS Early Years?
Play-based progress: Learning through exploration, sensory play, and discovery
Holistic tracking: Each stage is guided to ensure that developmental goals are met
Safe, nurturing spaces: Including dedicated rest areas for our youngest learners
Celebration & readiness: Our curriculum empowers children to transition seamlessly into formal schooling with joy, confidence, and independence