The Early Years Foundation Stage
We offer a unique programme for our youngest learners that combines different approaches to German and international elementary pedagogy in a creative and caring environment.
It reflects best practices from early childhood education around the world and allows consideration of local, regional and national contexts.
Our children (4+) enjoy various indoor and outdoor activities and experience a balance of learning through play and more formal work. They benefit from dedicated music and PE lessons that support their physical development, and we monitor their gross and fine motor skills as they develop in the classroom.
Our offer empowers several skills, like independence, positive social behaviour, motivation and curiosity, or self-confidence, and prepares children to continue their education in our Primary Programme.
Learning areas
The curriculum for our youngest learners is divided into seven learning areas:
- Personal, social and emotional development
- Communication and language
- Literacy
- Numeracy
- Understanding the world
- Physical development
- Expression through art and design
Daily schedule
- 7:30 Early arrival
- 8:00 – 8:40 Circle time activities
- 8:40 – 9:00 Breakfast break
- 9:00 – 10:00 Activities
- 10:00 – 11:00 Outdoor play
- 11:00 – 11:45 Circle time activities
- 11:45 – 12:15 Lunch time
- 12:15 – 13:45 Activities
- 13:45 – 14:30 Outdoor play
- 14:30 – 16:00 Free play, snack
- 16:00 Last pick up time
What is the admission procedure?
Download and fill out the contact form. Forward it and any relevant information to the Early Years Coordinator at bianca-enzlin.clarke [at] cjd.de (bianca-enzlin[dot]clarke[at]cjd[dot]de). We will then set up an admissions talk (in person or online). Following a successful talk, your child will have a trial day in the classroom. Formal notification of admission will be sent after the trial day.
When do you admit students?
We admit students year-round, provided there is space available.
What are "Kann-Kinder" and "Muss-Kinder"?
In Germany, "Muss-Kinder" are children who must start primary school based on a legal age cutoff. "Kann-Kinder" are children who can choose to stay in Early Years if they turn six shortly after that cutoff. This extra time is often beneficial for language development.
What is the Early Years programme?
We follow the Cambridge Early Years programme for children aged 4+. It offers a balance of learning through play and more formal activities. You can learn more about the curriculum on the Cambridge International website for parents.
Are you a bilingual school?
No, our school language is English. As an international school, our programme is taught in English. In Early Years, we integrate German into our activities. Beginning in Primary School, all lessons and classroom interactions are conducted in English, with German taught as a dedicated subject.
Can my child go to the CJD International Primary School after Early Years?
Yes. Children from our Early Years programme are given first priority for placement in our Primary School, based on their positive social and academic progress within our programme.
What is the daily routine?
Our core learning time is from 8:00 to 13:45. Supervised care is available from 7:30 in the morning until 16:00 in the afternoon.
How many children and adults are in a class?
We have a maximum of 25 children per class. Each class is supported by two class teachers, plus additional support teachers as needed.
Do you have a school bus?
No, we do not operate a school bus service. Parents typically bring their children to school. Our entrance is directly adjacent to public bus and tram stops, and some families collaboratively arrange group taxis.
How do you support children who join with no English or German?
Our trained and experienced teachers use visual aids, gestures, and specific language acquisition strategies to help all children feel included and start building their language skills in a supportive, immersive environment.
How do you communicate with parents about a child's progress?
We maintain open and regular communication. This includes scheduled parent-teacher development talks where we provide structured feedback on your child's learning journey. We also give brief informal updates during pick-up and drop-off times for day-to-day matters.
What is your policy on parent involvement?
Parents are valued partners. We actively encourage involvement through seasonal class events, celebrations, and volunteer opportunities. A parent representative system also helps foster a strong school community.
Does the school provide meals?
Yes. We are a nut-free school and provide lunch. We offer options for children with specific dietary requirements, such as vegan or pork-free meals. Please see the menu section on our website for weekly details.
Is there a school uniform?
Yes, wearing the school uniform is required.