The Yew Chung International School of Beijing’s Early Childhood Education (ECE) programme provides a bilingual, well-rounded and research-based education for children from two to five years old .

Philosophy

We believe play is the natural medium used by young children to consolidate every kind of learning. While children play, they put ideas into action. They learn to communicate effectively and how to get along with other children. They make things happen and enjoy a sense of mastery. It fosters the ability to focus attention and to concentrate for long periods of time. It fosters imagination and encourages them to generate creative ideas. We are committed to educating the whole person in cooperation with the parents, the family, the community and the wider culture.

Co-Teaching

We believe children flourish in the company of interested, committed adults. Our teachers are highly qualified and experienced in ECE. Each classroom has two teachers: one Chinese and one Western. English and Chinese languages are used simultaneously throughout the day and in every setting. Cohesive and authentic co-teaching starts from co-planning, where the teaching partner (Chinese and Western teacher) plan together. Co-teachers share and discuss on a regular basis, so that they fully understand the needs of the students and make the best decisions possible through their curriculum planning.

Curriculum

Our bilingual programme takes place in a nurturing environment that enables children to exercise initiative, make decisions and construct a hands-on understanding of the world. It is an integrated curriculum with learning activities covering a range of areas rather than isolated subjects. The teachers are guided by the Practice Guidance for the Early Years Foundation Stage from the National Curriculum for England, which offers clear guidance for learning based upon developmentally appropriate practice. The programme is continually being adapted to fit the international setting and the needs of all of our children.

Digital Portfolios

Digital Portfolios are a collection of observations of "children in action" that demonstrate their growth and development over a period of time. They indicate the level of the child’s development and enable teachers to plan the curriculum that supports and extends that development. Portfolios also communicate both the child’s developmental levels and the subsequent progress to the parents.