We aim to provide children in Early Years with educational experiences which will help them develop a positive approach to learning. By creating a learning environment where children feel at home, they will be more willing to explore new concepts and ideas. Self-discipline, a sense of responsibility, and respect for others are encouraged. Classroom walls are covered with displays of children's art and craft, as well as language-based information to help them develop literacy skills. Displays of educational material related to topics being studied and an ever changing role-play area helps further stimulate their enthusiasm.

The International School of Moscow offers a Pre-Nursery Unit specifically designed for children from the age of 2 to 3 years. Within this group your child will be well cared for as he or she enjoys the experience of learning through play. For children where English is not their native language, this is an ideal learning environment for effortless assimilation of the English language. Within the group children learn to play and live with one another. Our aim is to contribute to children's development in all areas.  The Pre-Nursery Unit provides a bridge between home and school and this obviously requires constant communication between parents and teachers and includes termly reports (3 per year), letters and regular verbal communication.

The classes for three to five year olds provide a stimulating and creative environment where young children may experience a wide range of activities which lead into Key Stage 1 of the English National Curriculum. These two years are very important as they form the basis of a child's future education. At The International School of Moscow we follow the requirements set out in the Desirable Outcomes for Children's Learning (i.e. 6 goals for children's learning within the Early Years setting):

Language and Literacy covers important aspects of language development and provides the foundation for literacy. Children are helped to acquire competence in English as soon as possible. Particular emphasis is laid on speaking and listening and in pre-reading and pre-writing activities. In Mathematics children are introduced to important aspects of mathematical understanding and are provided with the foundation for numeracy. This is achieved through practical activities and by using and understanding simple mathematical language.

Knowledge and Understanding of the World Children acquire a basic knowledge and understanding of their environment, other people and features of the natural and man-made world. Personal and Social Development programme focuses on children learning how to work, play, co-operate with others and function in a group beyond the family.

The Physical Development programme aims to help children develop physical control, mobility, awareness of space and manipulative skills in indoor and outdoor environments. Children are actively encouraged to establish positive attitudes towards a healthy and active way of life. Creative Development focuses on stimulating children's imagination and their ability to communicate and express ideas and feelings in a creative way.