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Programme of Learning

Our curriculum includes both teacher-led learning experiences and an inquiry-driven curriculum which draws on the interests of the children, educators, and families and is visible in children’s play and inquiry.

As an accredited International Baccalaureate Continuum School we implement an International Early Learning curriculum that draws on the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IBPYP). Intrinsic to our programme is bilingual, English and Mandarin learning and the development of language as a whole in our early learners.

All our learners are educated in a numeracy and literacy-rich environment that is both challenging and fun. The curriculum within the Early Learning programme is informed by the key educational approaches to early childhood education, where the learner is always at the centre. The underlying pedagogy is play and movement driven and active engagement and shared learning experiences are at the forefront.

Play and learning as part of our curriculum are inseparable: we believe that inquiry-driven, structured and inventive play allows our learners to develop their individual identity, awareness of others and understanding of the world around them.

We pride ourselves on instilling in even our youngest learners a sense of confidence. From their earliest days in our programme, we encourage our children to feel confident in their ability as learners. A safe environment ensures that they can try new things and make choices. Their innate curiosity is encouraged and opportunities for expression are created.

 

Programme of Learning

We provide a beautiful and inviting environment based on modern design approaches to early learning. Our open-plan spaces allow the children to explore and experiment while feeling secure. Through "play corners" and "learning centres", children are encouraged to collaborate and to try activities.

Outdoor Play

Our playground has a mix of carefully crafted activities and resources to introduce play, learning to take ‘risks’ and adventure. This is the space where imaginations run wild and great stories are crafted. Our outdoor play areas allow the children to experiment and develop their gross motor skills while connecting with the outside. Children have the opportunity to run, ride and climb using the outdoor equipment and the large open spaces.

Indoor Play

Our tailor designed indoor play environments have an immediate effect on the quality of children’s learning and development. The play spaces are comfortable, and allow the children to explore and experiment in safe areas. The spaces are flexible and accommodate changing interests and needs, while offering immediate opportunities for the development of fine and gross motor development. On rainy Hong Kong days, the children can hone their skills on the gymboree equipment, working together with the teachers on their big muscle development.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the ELC programme prepare students for the PYP curriculum?
Our ELC is an environment for young children to gain independence and confidence and begin to develop social, emotional, and learning skills.

Our ELC's play-based learning environment encourages children to inquire and explore independently the learning materials, complementing the IB framework and form a solid basis for future learning. Pupils are guided through learning processes and we encourage autonomous agency by allowing for a child's voice and choices to be reflected within the classroom

How will my child transition into the IB curriculum?
Your child will be given the option to apply to the Nursery section of the School upon completion of the ELC. Our Nursery programme is the first step in the PYP IB learning journey, after which the MYP and DP curriculum will be natural next steps. 

What does the Jewish curriculum at Carmel School entail?
Carmel School offers an International stream in our Elsa High School section, providing all students with the opportunity to study a third language (French or Hebrew). International and Main/Jewish streams are blended from Nursery and through Carmel Elementary section, meaning all students follow the same curriculum: students will study Hebrew as well as Jewish traditions, celebrations and customs as part of their curriculum. 

What is the student and teacher mix at the Carmel ELC?
Carmel School is comprised of pupils and faculty from all over the world, including America, Australia, UK, Israel, South Africa,  Hong Kong, France, Malaysia and India.