By focusing on these areas, ISA ensures that the EY programme is wholly child-centred, and at all times driven by the needs of young students. Experiences during the early years lay the foundation for all future learning as there is a rapid rate of development in the physical, emotional, social and cognitive domains. During these years the brain and body develop faster than at any other point in a child’s life. Social development takes shape in these early years as children are naturally inclined to explore, to discover, to play and to make connections between self, others and their surroundings.

ISA values the early years as a time in which play is the primary driver for inquiry. Teachers offer many opportunities for exploration and expression, plan uninterrupted time for spontaneous play and learning, and provide a balance between student-initiated play and teacher directed activities. The early years environment provides provocations that inspire curiosity and engagement and are designed to develop cognition, communication and motor control. There is a strong focus on building strong relationships with students and their families.