EARLY YEARS

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Little Steps, Giant Leaps – Nurturing Tomorrow’s Leaders at MIS Early Years.

PRESCHOOL & KINDERGARTEN, PRIMARY SCHOOL AND SECONDARY SCHOOL.

PRESCHOOL A & B
Children from two years old – English EYFS curriculum in parallel with Montessori methodology.

KINDERGARTEN
Children from four years old – English EYFS curriculum in parallel with Montessori methodology, Kindergarten is slightly more formally structured and acts as a stepping stone to Primary school.

M.I.S. CURRICULAM
The M.I.S. curricula are designed to encourage each child to achieve their highest potential as well as to meet the English Curriculum standards. The focus is on the physical, psychological, intellectual and social development of the child.

M.I.S. PRESCHOOL & KINDERGARTEN M.I.S.
Offering Preschool & Kindergarten education for children aged between 2 and 5 years old. We use the Montessori educational method in parallel with the Early Years Foundation Stage of the English curriculum. Both approaches promote the key areas of care, learning and development. In the UK, Preschool is known as the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), which covers education for children before they reach five. Meanwhile ‘Kindergarten’ here in Thailand, is equivalent to the ‘Reception Year’ in the U.K. which admits children who turn 5 during the academic year.

The Head of Early Years

Ms Mercedes Slawter

Head of Early Years
My name is Mercedes Slawter, and on behalf of the MIS Early Years team, I would like to extend a heartfelt welcome to you and your child.
At MIS, we are committed to creating a warm, nurturing environment where young children feel safe, happy, and inspired to learn. Our dedicated Early Years team brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for early childhood education, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential.
We follow the Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum while also incorporating key Montessori principles into our teaching. These proven methods enhance children’s learning experiences, fostering their independence, curiosity, and overall development.
Early Years education is about so much more than preparing for primary school—it lays the foundation for a child’s social, emotional, cognitive, and physical growth. Our team takes the time to truly understand each child, guiding them through challenges and helping them navigate the world beyond their family home. Teaching young children is an incredibly rewarding experience, and we take great joy in watching their unique personalities flourish. Happy children and happy teachers—what could be better?
Thank you for visiting our website. I look forward to welcoming you and your family to the MIS Early Years community!

BEYOND THE CURRICULUM

“GIVE YOUR CHILD A HEADSTART IN LIFE!”

At M.I.S., we believe that education goes far beyond the academic curriculum. Providing children with a diverse range of experiences, activities, and opportunities is essential for their personal growth. Extracurricular activities play a key role in character development, talent discovery, and fostering a deeper understanding of themselves and others.
We are committed to offering a well-rounded school experience, ensuring that extracurricular activities complement academic learning rather than compete with it. Our teachers regularly organize enriching field trips each term, allowing students to connect their lessons to the real world in exciting and meaningful ways.
Additionally, we offer after school activities that give students the chance to explore new interests and develop new skills. From sports to creative pursuits, there’s something for every child to enjoy.
 
Beyond these activities, we take great pride in celebrating important cultural and school-wide events that unite our entire community. Whether it’s Christmas, Songkran, or our vibrant International Day celebration, these special occasions bring students, teachers, and families together in a fun and meaningful way. Often held on the last day of term, these events showcase incredible teamwork, creativity, and dedication—from beautifully designed sets and costumes to impressive performances and choreography.
At M.I.S., we strive to create an environment where learning extends beyond textbooks, inspiring students to grow, explore, and make unforgettable memories along the way.

Early Years Curriculum

PRESCHOOL A&B CURRICULUM

“PLAY WITH A PURPOSE”

The EYFS curriculum is a comprehensive framework that guides the learning, development, and care of children from birth to 5 years old. It sets the standards for early years providers to ensure children learn and develop well while being kept healthy and safe. The curriculum prepares children with the knowledge and skills they need to start school, focusing on play and learning through play as essential components of early education. The EYFS framework emphasizes three prime areas of learning—Communication and Language, Physical Development, and Personal, Social, and Emotional Development —which are crucial for children’s success in all other areas of learning and life

KINDERGARTEN CURRICULUM

“LITTLE LEARNERS,BIG EXPLORERS”

At M.I.S., our curriculum is rooted in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, providing a smooth transition from pre-school to primary education. We integrate the best practices from Montessori and other influential curricula, focusing on a child-centered approach that values each student’s interests. Our Kindergarten continues with the EYFS, giving balanced attention to all seven areas of learning and maintaining a thematic, interest-led planning for classroom activities.

PERSONAL SOCIAL AND EMOTIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Develops a positive sense of self and confidence.
Builds positive relationships and respect for others.
Enhances social skills and self-regulation.
Encourages appropriate behavior in groups.

COMMUNICATION AND LANGUAGE
Provides opportunities to speak and listen in various situations.
Boosts confidence and skills in expressing themselves.

PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT
Offers activities for children to be active and interactive.
Improves coordination, control, and movement.

LITERACY
Encourages reading and writing through listening and practice.
Introduces daily literacy sessions for structured learning.
Implements the phonics program “Song of Sound.”
Utilizes the Oxford Reading Tree reading scheme.

NUMERACY
Engages children with counting, calculations, and descriptions of shapes.
Uses stories, songs, and discussions to apply mathematical language.

UNDERSTANDING THE WORLD:

Encourages exploration and observation of the physical world.
Helps children learn about people, places, technology, and the environment.
Aims to make sense of the world and the child’s community.

EXPRESSIVE ARTS AND DESIGN:

Encourages children to engage with various media and materials.
Supports the sharing of thoughts and creative expression.
Aims to cultivate creativity, imagination, and sensory exploration.

At MIS, we are adept at creating a cooperative learning environment where children, parents, and teachers unite in a shared journey of discovery, nurturing a community where education is a collaborative and dynamic adventure. Together, we turn every day into an opportunity to learn, grow, and explore the wonders of the world around us.

Finally, at MIS we aim to develop a cooperative environment where children, parents and teachers can all learn together to make this journey one of true discovery.

Early Years Learning

“EDUCATING AND EMPOWERING THE NEXT GENERATION”

Using the Montessori Method, our Early Years classes adapt the teaching and learning for each child’s current developmental stage. Each child is treated as an individual and encouraged to work at the pace that is right for them.

In order to create the right learning environment, we provide Montessori materials that are especially designed for a child’s exploration and self–discovery, encouraging children to be active learners at every level.

In each area of learning there are expectations of attainment known as the early learning goals. The lessons and activities that are provided across the timetable serve to develop and consolidate the skills the children need to meet these learning goals across the seven areas of learning.

At MIS we aim to develop an environment where children, parents and teachers can all learn together to make this journey one of true discovery.

Life in Early Years

PLANTING SEEDS,NURTURING MINDS:WHERE LITTLE LEARNERS GROW!

From the moment children enter Early Years, we encourage them to actively explore their classroom and beyond, engaging their senses—sight, touch, smell, and even taste—to discover and understand the world around them.
Sensory activities provide a fun and engaging way for children to explore. Hands-on experiences, often called “messy play,” allow children to squeeze, squish, and squash different materials, helping them develop an understanding of various textures and sensations through touch.
We also promote outdoor learning whenever possible, in our timetables we incluce a lesson called ‘adventure time,’ which is encouraged to be outside when possible. Young children tend to flourish when given the chance to connect with the natural environment, and the Early Years outside play-area and surrounding greenery is the perfect location.
 
In Early Years, making new friends and having fun are key parts of the experience. However, for most children, it’s also their first step in learning the English language. From mastering how to hold a pencil and writing letters to learning phonetic sounds, by the middle of kindergarten, students begin blending sounds, which is a crucial milestone in their reading development.
We always start our day with circle time! A time for students to get out some energy through songs and dance, settle down to start the day and begin with some simple educational games to get their brains flowing for the day! 
MIS offers a safe, green environment that helps students feel happy, confident, and supported as they build friendships and enjoy their school experience.

Let’s all learn and grow together!

Pre-School and Kindergarten

NURTURING LITTLE MINDS TO BLOSSOM INTO TOMORROWS BRIGHTEST STARS

At our school, we believe that the early years are a magical time of growth and exploration. The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) program is designed to nurture this crucial stage with a blend of care, creativity, and self learning.
We welcome children as young as two, inviting them into an environment where play is the pathway to learning. Here, curiosity leads to discovery, and every experience is an opportunity to grow.
In Preschool A and B: Building foundations for the future as children transition to Kindergarten around the age of four, our focus shifts to laying the groundwork for formal education while using a play-based learning approach. We emphasize foundational academic skills, socialization, and a love for lifelong learning.
From the moment our young learners walk through the door, they are welcomed into a world filled with endless opportunities to learn, play, and grow. Our dedicated educators lead them through engaging activities that spark imagination and promote development, ensuring every child feels valued and understood. We are committed to creating a warm, inclusive, and stimulating environment that celebrates the uniqueness of each child. By investing in high-quality early education, we are nurturing confident, creative, and curious minds ready to embrace the world.
 

We believe that our MIS parents have an important role to play in the successful implementation of our Behavior Policy in fully supporting these objectives and aims. Forging a close and cooperative relationship between teachers and parents is essential for our youngest students when it comes to behavioural expectations. 

Educational Trips

EXPLORING THE WORLD, ONE ADVENTURE AT A TIME

LEARNING BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

Primary students explore Thailand’s cultural treasures and landmarks, while secondary students venture to countries like China, broadening their global perspective. Each trip is a step towards becoming informed, worldly scholars.

The school buses enable MIS Early Years students to access many of the local attractions for a half day and these Educational School Trips are free of charge.

Early Years FAQ’s

We understand that starting school is a very important first step for all children and here at MIS, we take great care to provide a welcoming and friendly environment for all our children. The Early Years Teaching Staff are experienced in ensuring the transition to school goes smoothly and children are quickly integrated into their respective classes.

Q: Will my child have nap time?

 A: We do not have a scheduled nap time in Early Years. However, if a student in Pre-School A is feeling tired, he/she is more than welcome to lay down with a pillow and blanket (provided by the school).

Q: Does my child need to be potty trained?

A: If your child is joining Pre-School A (2-3years old) they do not need to be potty trained as this is something we will work on with you and your child during the year. In Pre-School B it is preferred that the child should already be potty trained; in Kindergarten it is expected that children will already be potty trained.

Q: My child does not speak English; can they start school at MIS?

A: Yes, of course! Early Years is the best place for children to adapt to new languages.

Q: My child has never been to school before, is that ok?

A: Yes, this is perfectly fine. Our staff take pride in helping students follow the school routine and are happy to help you and your child adapt to MIS.

Q: How many days a week is recommended for my child when first starting school in Early Years?

A: This is up to you and how you are feeling. Some parents are more comfortable with a child of Pre-School A age starting with 3 days for the first term and then moving to full time (5 days).

Q: What do I need to pack for my child?

A: Pre-School children will need a hat for outside play, a change of clothes, toothbrush and toothpaste, water bottle, utensils, milk and fruit for morning break and a small snack for afternoon break-time. (Preschool B: pencil case). Kindergarten is very similar but the students only have one snack-time; a pencil case and suitable pencils are also required for classroom activities.

Q: I cannot drive; is there a minimum age for the school bus?

A: No, there is not a minimum age. Small children will sit in car seats that are provided by the school. All school buses have a dedicated staff member sitting with the students.

Q: What is the teacher to student ratio in class?

A: Our class cap is 25 students with 3 teaching staff consisting of one international homeroom teacher and two Teaching Assistants.

Q: Is my child required to wear a uniform?

A: Yes, the teacher will provide parents with a uniform schedule with one day being free dress day, during which students can wear their own choice of clothes. Any change of clothes the students bring in their backpacks can be free choice clothes too.

Q: How can I contact my child’s teacher(s)?

A: The best way to contact your child’s teacher is either by email or direct LINE message to the head teacher or the assistants.

Q: How does MIS manage dietary restricts for lunch time?

A: When registering your child for MIS please indicate any dietary restrictions your child has, this will be shared with your child’s teacher along with our kitchen staff. Student’s will be given a lunch box that is specific to fit these dietary needs.

Q: Can my student bring a packed lunch to school?

A: Yes, you have the option to opt out of the normal school lunch.

Q: What time should I drop my child off at school?

A: Class starts at 9:00 a.m., so please arrive with enough time for the students to get to class prior to this time. Children should be dropped off at the correct drop-off point where our staff will help the children out of the car; there is no need for parents to get out of their car.

Q: What kind of snacks should I send with my child?

A: For morning snack time, milk and fruit is recommended. For the afternoon snack it is your choice, but healthy snacks are recommended.

Q: How do I know my child is safe at school?

A: Caring for your children is our number one priority. Our staff are trained and qualified for all situations. The medical room is close by and there are first aid qualified staff in each building. Students are continually under supervision and are never left unattended.

The school has a new CCTV system installed around the school and nobody is allowed on site without an identification lanyard.

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