Early Years – Stage R

Stage R of the British International Curriculum serves as the initial stepping-stone into structured early education, designed specifically for the youngest learners. This stage is aimed at nurturing a sense of wonder and excitement about learning in an inclusive online setting. Here, children are introduced to the very basics of academic skills through play-based activities and sensory experiences. The focus is on creating a playful and engaging environment that encourages children to explore their interests, laying the groundwork for all future learning.

Curriculum: British International
Programme: Early Years
Requirements: None
Age group: 5 to 6 years of age
Language of instruction: English

Subjects

The curriculum for Stage R is crafted to introduce children to educational activities that will foster cognitive, social and fine motor skills.

English

Early language activities focusing on listening, understanding simple instructions and recognising sounds and basic words.

Mathematics

Introduction to counting, recognising numbers through play and understanding simple patterns.

Fine Motor Skills Development

Engaging with the natural world through sensory activities that encourage curiosity and observation.

Personal Power

Basic social skills, alongside simple concepts of self-care.

Student preparation for Stage R

Encouragement of exploratory play and interaction within a structured yet flexible routine to help children gradually adapt to a learning environment.

Parental involvement for Stage R students

Parents are encouraged to:

Engage actively in their child’s learning through shared activities at home.
Provide a stable routine that includes plenty of time for free play and rest.
Support emotional and social development through interactive play.

How are parents kept informed?

Communication with parents is maintained through weekly updates on the child’s engagement and progress and, a blog that includes tips for home activities and learning. For more information, see our key services.

Support offered by Think Digital to students

Students receive support through a variety of interactive and online activities designed to make learning enjoyable and accessible from home. The programme offers self-guided materials and resources to foster independent learning, while virtual staff provide nurturing guidance and support.

Stage R assessments

Informal assessments are given based on informal quizzes and fun multiple-choice assessments to understand each child’s developmental progress without pressure.

Developmental milestones during Stage R

Children begin to show basic understanding of language, start to interact more with those around them and demonstrate early problem-solving skills through play.

How parents can support this age group

Support involves:

Encouraging a positive view of learning and school.
Reinforcing concepts learned in online lessons through daily routines.
Providing a supportive and understanding environment to nurture growth and development.

Equipment and supplies needed

Basic play materials such as blocks, crayons and interactive toys. All educational materials are provided through the school’s learner management system, focusing on interactive and sensory experiences. Also see our general stationary and equipment list.

Additional resources

Clubs and fraternities – Online clubs that foster creative expressions such as Art Club and Book Club.

Interactive storytime – Engaging live read-aloud sessions that introduce children to storytelling and early literacy skills.

Fine and gross motor skill activities – Fun, simple activities designed to improve balance, coordination and control, such as drawing, connecting the dots and physical games.