INTERNATIONAL EARLY YEARS CURRICULUM
At Harrods, our Early Years programme is guided by the International Early Years Curriculum (IEYC) alongside the principles of the Montessori Philosophy, creating a rich and engaging learning environment. These approaches focus on nurturing each child’s natural curiosity and independence through play-based activities and inquiry-led experiences that develop essential cognitive and language skills. We prioritise creating a safe, welcoming, and thoughtfully designed campus that supports both comfort and functionality. Alongside academic growth, our programme places strong emphasis on social-emotional development, ensuring every child feels supported as they begin their learning journey.
Harrods’ Early Years programme stands out by combining the internationally recognised IEYC framework with the Montessori Philosophy, offering a unique blend of structured inquiry and child-led exploration. This dual approach nurtures independence, creativity, and a love of learning from the very beginning, while supporting each child’s cognitive, social, and emotional development in a warm and carefully prepared environment. With experienced educators who personalise learning to suit individual needs and a focus on holistic growth, Harrods creates a foundation that empowers young learners to thrive confidently both inside and beyond the classroom.
CURRICULUM FRAMEWORK
At Harrods International Academy, our Early Years programme follows the International Early Years Curriculum (IEYC), enriched with elements of the Montessori approach to support holistic, child-centred learning. The IEYC is a play-based, thematic curriculum designed for children aged 1.5 to 4, focusing on key developmental milestones while nurturing curiosity, creativity, and independence.
Our curriculum emphasises four key learning areas: literacy, where children explore language, phonics, and communication skills through storytelling and conversation; numeracy, which introduces foundational maths concepts using hands-on activities; physical development, promoted through movement, outdoor play, and fine motor tasks; and social-emotional learning, where children build confidence, self-awareness, and positive relationships. Lessons are delivered in an engaging, nurturing environment that encourages active exploration and discovery.
By combining international standards with a personalised approach, our programme ensures every child develops the foundational skills needed for lifelong learning.
TEACHING PHILOSOPHY & METHODOLOGY
At Harrods International Academy, we embrace a play-based and inquiry-led approach that places the child at the centre of learning. We believe that children learn best when they are actively engaged, curious, and free to explore ideas through meaningful play.
Our teachers act as facilitators, guiding learning by observing, asking open-ended questions, and extending children’s thinking based on their interests and developmental needs. Rather than delivering fixed lessons, educators co-construct knowledge with children, encouraging independence and critical thinking.
Learning takes place in thoughtfully designed environments that are safe, stimulating, and rich in resources. These spaces encourage exploration, creativity, and collaboration—helping each child build the confidence and foundational skills for lifelong learning.
DEVELOPMENTAL MILESTONES
BY YEAR GROUP
In Pre-Nursery, children focus on developing sensory awareness, gross and fine motor skills, and basic social interaction. Through play and routine, they begin to form secure relationships and explore the world around them with curiosity.
In Nursery, the emphasis shifts to building early communication skills, understanding daily routines, and fostering independence. Children engage in hands-on activities that support language development, self-help skills, and imaginative play.
By Reception 1 & 2, children are introduced to foundational literacy and numeracy through playful, structured experiences. They begin to develop pre-academic skills, such as recognising letters, counting, and following instructions, while learning to collaborate, share, and problem-solve with peers—laying a strong foundation for future learning.
ASSESSMENT & PROGRESS-TRACKING
At Harrods International Academy, teachers continuously monitor each child’s development through careful day-to-day interactions and activities. This allows personalised support tailored to each learner’s needs and progress.
We prioritise regular parent-teacher communication to keep families informed and engaged. Through meetings and updates, parents receive clear insights into their child’s achievements and areas for growth, creating a strong partnership that supports the child’s learning journey.
INTEGRATION WITH PRIMARY SCHOOL READINESS
Our curriculum is designed to smoothly prepare children for the academic and social demands of primary school. Through foundational skills in literacy, numeracy, and collaboration, children gain the confidence and abilities needed for the next stage of learning.
To support a successful transition, parents are invited to participate in the Townhall Level Up Series, where they receive guidance and practical advice to help their child adjust confidently to primary school life. This partnership ensures families feel prepared and supported during this important milestone.
FAQs
The IEYC is a play-based, child-centred curriculum designed for children aged 2 to 5. It focuses on holistic development through fun, theme-based learning experiences that support young children’s cognitive, emotional, and physical growth.
IEYC uniquely integrates international best practices in early childhood education with thematic learning. It places strong emphasis on inquiry, exploration, and real-world connections, making learning meaningful and enjoyable for young children.
IEYC covers key areas such as Communication & Language, Personal & Social Development, Numeracy, Literacy, Knowledge & Understanding of the World, Creative Expression, and Physical Development – all through engaging, age-appropriate themes.
Learning is observed and documented through portfolios, teacher notes, and continuous formative assessments. The focus is on individual progress, development milestones, and ensuring children are supported in their unique learning journeys.
Play is central to IEYC. It is through purposeful, guided play that children explore concepts, express ideas, and develop essential skills. The curriculum supports both structured and free play to balance creativity and learning.
Parents are viewed as partners in their child’s education. We offer regular communication, parent-teacher conferences, learning journeys, and celebrations of learning where children can showcase their progress and achievements.
LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR EARLY YEARS PROGRAMME
Book a tour and have a look at a day in the life of our early years learners today!
