Kindergarten

We support and extend children’s learning and competence in listening, speaking, reading and writing. Children are provided with opportunities to develop their confidence and skills in expressing themselves in a range of situations. Our Kindergarteners will master the English language rapidly and will gain the ability to communicate with both peers and adults fluently.

Children’s creativity is nurtured through our provision of materials and equipment as well as through the extra STEAM and Free-Flow sessions that they participate in. They are encouraged to explore and share their  thoughts, ideas, and feelings through a variety of media, such as art, music, movement, dance, and imaginative role-play activities.

We follow the Jolly Phonics Programme, whilst also enjoying the learning process through a variety of games and open-ended activities. Children learn to imitate sounds, rhythms and patterns, use simple words and phrases, and non-verbal communication strategies in familiar situations. They begin to read and write simple words with visual cues. Children have access to a wide range of reading materials at school to ignite their interest in books. Arabic is introduced in KG-2. Children listen to stories, rhymes, letter sounds and songs that are the basis of early Arabic. They also learn to write the letters.

Understanding of mathematics is nurtured via a broad range of contexts wherein children can explore, enjoy, learn, practice, and talk about their developing understanding of numbers, shape, space and measurement. They are provided with a wide range of opportunities to practice their mathematical skills, and to gain confidence in using mathematical language and concepts.

Our teachers support each child’s emotional well-being, ensuring that they are confident to take part in new activities and work with others. We provide children with experiences and support, that lead them to develop a positive sense of themselves as well as respect for others, social skills, and a positive disposition to learn.

We encourage the children’s physical development through a variety of opportunities to be active, to improve their coordination and to control both their fine and gross motor skills. Children are supported in developing an understanding of the importance of physical activity and making healthy choices in relation to food and lifestyle. Our curriculum includes opportunities for children to explore their fine motor skills through activities such as pegging, spooning, and cutting. Children are encouraged to develop their gross motor skills in the soft play area and during our daily outdoor activities which includes free-dance, Zumba and other fitness classes.

We fully support children in developing their knowledge and understanding in order to help them make sense of a world. We encourage them to take an active part in the community through supporting a variety of charities. We promote Emirati values within our KG as well as celebrate diversity through a myriad of events. Parents play an integral part in this and are encouraged to visit school and contribute to the children’s understanding. Our curriculum includes a variety of activities that provide opportunities for the children to care for the natural world and the man- made world.

Free-Flow provides a rich learning environment for young children.  It offers a wider learning experience at children’s own pace, encouraging them to use their imagination. It allows children to move independently between environments, choosing to play indoors and outdoors. It boosts emotional and physical well-being and confidence in every child. Free-Flow gives children more space and freedom to explore the world around them, letting them make decisions and connect learning to real life.

Free-Flow will be evident at our Kindergarten in various ways that involve

• reading picture story books
• building blocks
• making props using age appropriate resources
• role playing
• water play, play-doh and sand play
• active play with playground equipment for climbing, balancing, sliding, exploring kinetic play equipment
• providing imaginative, creative or sensory tubs
• creating a playhouse, shopping corner, age appropriate construction area to boost the interest of engineering minds

We at OOB work closely with parents, providing regular feedback of assessment to encourage children in what they particularly enjoy, excel in, or to help them in areas they may find more challenging. Parents are involved in assessing and giving constructive feedback about the quality of teaching and learning. They can be as involved as they wish either by simply attending events or volunteering and helping to organize various events.

Coffee mornings are held once every term, offering an opportunity to informally discuss any matters linked to individual classes or learners.

STEAM has been integrated within the KG curriculum to engage students in hands-on activities using LEGO, Blocks and Puzzles etc, involving a seamless integration of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math.