Early Years stage consist of 3 Classes: one Nursery and 2 Receptions.
Nursery Class (approx. 3 -4 years)
The class is located on the ground floor, with most of the children’s learning and activities taking place in the carpeted area. The available furniture is designed for older, secondary-age pupils and is therefore not appropriately scaled for the younger children. To address this challenge effectively, the staff adapt the learning environment by making extensive use of the carpeted floor area and providing large cushions to create a more comfortable, accessible, and age-appropriate space for learning.
The classroom is visually stimulating, with a wide range of visual prompts, displays, and children’s artwork contributing to a welcoming and engaging learning environment. The children have recently completed a collage focusing on outdoor clothing, which is extended through the use of Arabic vocabulary labels. The children learn and apply words such as coat, scarf, and hat.
The children demonstrate a positive and cooperative approach to learning. During the observation, they actively participate in Arabic nursery rhymes and songs, showing enthusiasm and enjoyment. The children appear highly engaged in the learning experience, and the classroom atmosphere is warm, positive, and supportive, with many smiling and happy faces.
There are 27 children in the group, supported by three adults: one teacher, one teaching assistant, and one classroom helper. Arabic is the predominant language of communication and instruction, although English is also used occasionally where appropriate.
The class also makes effective use of an interactive whiteboard to support learning. The technology is integrated in an interactive and kinaesthetic way, with children encouraged to leave their seats, move around the classroom, and physically interact with the board. This provides opportunities for movement and active participation, helping to maintain the children’s attention, motivation, and engagement.
Reception Class: Approx. Ages 4–5 Years
Our Reception classes provide a warm, engaging, and supportive environment where young children begin to build a strong foundation in Arabic language and literacy. At this stage, there are two Reception classes, each located on the ground floor and designed to support the learning needs of children aged approximately 4–5 years.
Arabic is used almost exclusively throughout the classroom, creating an immersive language environment that encourages children to listen, understand, communicate, and develop confidence in using Arabic naturally.
Learning is highly interactive and supported by a rich range of visual prompts and age-appropriate resources. Children are introduced progressively to Arabic letter sounds, blends, and simple words using colourful and engaging cards and classroom displays. This structured approach helps children develop early phonics and vocabulary skills in a way that is accessible and enjoyable.
Children participate enthusiastically in whole-class activities, responding together through chants and songs as well as having opportunities to give individual verbal answers. This combination of group and individual participation helps develop confidence, listening skills, pronunciation, and spoken Arabic.
Early writing activities are introduced gradually and are carefully scaffolded to match the children’s developmental stage. Children work with colourful, well-designed worksheets that provide clear guidance and manageable activities, allowing them to practise their emerging Arabic literacy skills while experiencing success and enjoyment.
Each class is supported by a qualified teacher and teaching assistant, ensuring that children receive encouragement, guidance, and individual support throughout their learning journey.
Overall, the Reception programme aims to make learning Arabic positive, enjoyable, and confidence-building, helping children develop essential language and literacy foundations that prepare them for the next stage of their education.
