Holistic Education
The Early Years at AIS
(Age 2 to 5)
Play-Based Learning
Children begin their learning journey at AIS in our Foundation Year (ages 3–4), where they develop confidence, curiosity, and a love of learning through play-based experiences. Our indoor and outdoor environments are designed to be nurturing, creative, and child-centered, supporting each learner in building independence and social skills within a caring community.
They then move into our Reception Year (ages 4–5), continuing to learn through a program that balances exploratory activities with more structured circle times.
English and Mathematics
Children are introduced to early literacy through the Letters and Sounds program, which builds strong foundations in reading and writing in a consistent, play-based manner. In mathematics, we follow the White Rose Maths scheme, encouraging children to explore numbers, shapes, measurement, and patterns through hands-on learning and real-life experiences
English National Curriculum
Learning in the Early Years at AIS follows the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) of the English National Curriculum. The program offers a balanced approach to developing communication, language, literacy, numeracy, personal, social, and emotional skills, as well as understanding of the world, art and design, and physical development.
Specialist Subjects and Enrichment
Early Years students enjoy specialist lessons in Physical Education, Music, Art, and Korean Studies, helping them discover their creativity, develop coordination, and build cultural awareness.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
Our youngest learners also participate in regular excursions and outdoor experiences, where they can explore the world around them and make meaningful connections between classroom learning and the wider environment.
The Primary Years at AIS
(Age 5 to 11)
Builds Upon Early Years
The Primary Years at AIS cover six years of a student’s journey with us. Beginning in Year 1 (age 5+), children build on the strong foundations established in the Early Years, further developing their reading, writing, and mathematical skills through the English National Curriculum.
English National Curriculum
Learning in the Primary Years follows the English National Curriculum, ensuring continuity, progression, and high academic standards. In Mathematics and Science, students use the White Rose and Pearson schemes, which provide a structured, inquiry-based approach that supports mastery and problem-solving skills.
Specialist Learning
Primary students also enjoy specialist lessons in Music, Art, Physical Education, and Korean Studies, allowing them to discover their interests and express themselves creatively.
Broad and Balanced Learning
From Year 2 onwards, students continue to grow their knowledge, skills, and understanding across a broad range of subjects, including English, Mathematics, Science, History, and Geography. Lessons are engaging and thematic, encouraging curiosity, creativity, and independent thinking.
Developing a Love of Reading
Reading is at the heart of the Primary Years. Students are encouraged to read widely and often, developing vocabulary, imagination, and comprehension through both guided reading and independent exploration.
Assessment and Support
Student progress is closely monitored through classwork, projects, and assessments aligned with UK standards. Teachers provide ongoing feedback and adapt lessons to support each child’s individual learning needs, ensuring that every learner continues to thrive both academically and personally.
The Middle Years at AIS
(Ages 12 to 15)
English National Curriculum
The Middle Years at AIS cover three important years of a student’s learning journey — Years 7, 8, and 9. During this stage, students follow the English National Curriculum, which provides clear progression and prepares them for the academic rigor of IGCSE study.
Strong Core Subjects
Students develop deep understanding and confidence in English, Mathematics, and Science.
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In Mathematics, students follow the Pearson Maths Progress International course, which builds fluency, reasoning, and problem-solving skills in alignment with the UK National Curriculum.
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In Science, students use Pearson Exploring Science International, connecting real-world contexts with strong foundations in biology, chemistry, and physics.
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In English, students study a broad curriculum based on the UK Key Stage 3 framework, focusing on literature, grammar, writing, and speaking and listening skills through engaging and thought-provoking texts.
Leadership Development
Students also take part in the William Pike Challenge Award, which builds resilience, teamwork, and leadership through adventure, community service, and personal growth activities.
Curriculum Continuity and Progression
The Middle Years curriculum builds upon the strong foundations developed in the Primary Years and acts as a bridge to our Cambridge IGCSE program. Lessons emphasize independent learning, collaboration, and critical thinking, helping students make meaningful connections across subjects and develop confidence in applying their knowledge.
Specialist Learning
In addition to the core subjects, Middle Years students enjoy specialist lessons in Art, Music, Physical Education, and Korean Studies, allowing them to explore their creativity, develop teamwork skills, and gain cultural understanding.
Assessment and Support
Student progress is carefully monitored through classwork, projects, and formative assessments aligned with UK standards. Teachers provide regular feedback and individual support to ensure that every learner is both challenged and encouraged to reach their full potential.
The Higher Years at AIS
(Age 15 to 18)
Cambridge IGCSE Courses
Students in the Higher Years study for a range of Cambridge International Qualifications, using Cambridge-endorsed textbooks for all core subjects. Recognised by schools and universities worldwide, the Cambridge curriculum is known for its academic rigour and international standards, preparing students to think critically and learn independently. In Years 10 and 11, students typically study up to eight IGCSE subjects. These include compulsory courses in English, mathematics, science, and global perspectives, along with a selection of optional subjects such as computing, physical education, French, art, or music.
Leadership and Service
Students in the Higher Years have the opportunity to develop leadership, resilience, and service-mindedness through the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award. They participate in community service projects, outdoor expeditions, and personal leadership challenges that build character and independence.
A Level University Preparation
In Years 12 and 13, students study up to four Advanced Level (A Level) qualifications. These courses build on the skills, knowledge, and understanding developed at IGCSE and provide an excellent foundation for university study worldwide. AIS graduates are well prepared for success in top universities across the globe.
Advanced Level Subjects
Students currently have the option to study physics, chemistry, mathematics, English, global perspectives and research, economics, art, music, and computer science at A Level.