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The school follows a play-based curriculum that emphasizes experiential learning through play and adventure. English instruction begins first, followed by Chinese, with small-group activities designed for both languages. In the full-day programme, children participate in the Shaws Play Club, which includes cooking, arts and crafts, or new sports. Daily activities balance non-academic play with academic topics to support development.
Messy Play and Little League (Sports) are held weekly on Thursdays and Fridays. The full-day Play Club offers cooking, arts and crafts, and exposure to new sports. Sandpit and mud kitchen spaces support creative, tactile exploration.
Mandarin is integrated across the day. From Pre Nursery, children are exposed to Mandarin through songs, stories, and cultural learning experiences. From Nursery Two through Kindergarten, children learn to read and write Mandarin through fun activities.
An expansive field supports outdoor activities, including sports, gardening, mud play, water play, and outdoor play. The sandpit and mud kitchen provide outlets for creative play, and the long driveway supports tricycle and other active play. Messy Play and Little League are held weekly, and the Shaws Play Club includes cooking, arts and crafts, or new sports.
Outdoor spaces and butterfly gardens form part of the Braddell Heights campus, supporting outdoor activity and nature exploration. Nutrition is emphasised through a variety of Asian and Western dishes with whole grain pasta and rice, and sugary drinks or processed foods are avoided.
Shaws Preschool caters for children aged 18 months to 6 years. The curriculum integrates elements of Reggio Emilia, Waldorf Steiner, and Montessori philosophies, encouraging experiential learning through hands-on projects, outdoor exploration, and structured play. A standout feature is its dedicated sports program, led by professional coaches from Shaws Little League, where children engage in activities like soccer, rugby, and basketball.
NEST, Dover Court International School’s Early Childhood Learning programme, gives young learners (aged 3 to 7) the best possible start. In a calm and nurturing environment, children learn through play, discovery and exploration – guided by expert teachers who spark curiosity and build confidence every step of the way.
From social–emotional wellbeing to early literacy and numeracy, our personalised approach ensures every child feels known, supported and inspired to thrive.
✨ Discover where learning grows naturally.
👉 Book a visit with NEST at Dover Court.
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When it comes to choosing the right international school in Singapore, the question isn’t “What’s the best?”—it’s “What’s best for us?”