Early Years at ESA
Ages 2-5
The English School of Asturias follows the English curriculum throughout Early Years, with a strong emphasis on hands-on, experiential learning. Through an immersive English environment, children naturally begin to develop their language skills. In pre-nursery and nursery, children learn through sensory experiences, storytelling, singing, dancing and play-based activities designed to develop communication, motor skills, and curiosity.
In Reception, learning becomes slightly more structured, while we continue to emphasise highly interactive and child-centred activities. We balance small-group teaching with independent activities where children can explore construction, maths, science, fine motor activities and creative play at their own pace. In Early Years, pupils also receive daily Spanish instruction.
We work to ensure that children:
- Are happy and comfortable at school
- Enjoy routine and being part of the group
- Learn to respect the interests and space of others
- Develop a clear self-image, self-confidence, and independence
- Have a safe space to enjoy the things they like and also to accept there are things they don't like as much.
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Pre-Nursery (2–3 years)
The Pre-Nursery stage is designed for our youngest learners who are starting their educational journey. Activities are designed to encourage sensory exploration, motor development and the early acquisition of English through songs, games and creative activities. They also spend time every day learning Spanish.
Learning goals in Pre-Nursery:
- Emotional development: learning to express and recognise emotions.
- Cooperation: encouraging interaction with other children and teamwork.
- Physical development: stimulating gross and fine motor skills.
Nursery (3–4 years)
In the Nursery stage, children continue to develop their ability to communicate in English and begin to acquire more complex academic and social skills. Through structured play activities, children start to explore basic concepts of numbers, colours and shapes, and are introduced to the world of reading and writing in a playful way. Every day includes 1 hour learning in Spanish.
Learning goals in Nursery:
- Language: expansion of vocabulary in English and Spanish.
- Cognition: introduction to basic mathematical and scientific concepts.
- Socialisation: fostering empathy and respect for others
Reception (4–5 years)
The Reception stage marks the transition to more structured learning, whilst maintaining the playful and creative approach that characterises our EY curriculum. Children consolidate their English language skills, beginning to learn phonics in earnest and developing their reading comprehension. They also spend 1 hour per day learning in Spanish. In reception children also begin to work more independently on maths, science and art tasks. Lastly, through everyday actions we focus on group work and the development of social skills.
Learning goals in Reception:
- Literacy: Introduction to reading and writing through phonics in English and Spanish.
- Maths: Introduction to basic operations such as addition and subtraction.
- Independence: Developing the ability to make decisions for themselves and work on group projects.
A typical day in nursery
9:00 - 9:30: Free play
9:30 - 11:40 Activities covering all areas of the curriculum, both inside the classroom and outside on the playground.
11:40 - 11:50: Story and/or songs
12:00-12:30: Lunch
12:30-14:30: Rest time (nap) and activities as they wake.
14:30-15:00: Outdoor activities
15:00-15:30: Snack time
15:30-16:15: Songs and stories: getting ready to go home
A word from our Early Years coordinator
Welcome to Early Years at ESA, where we make sure school is a place where everyone enjoys discovering new things. We move steadily from fun, play-based activities to more structured lessons, always aiming for the highest quality in everything we teach. Our youngest children start by building confidence and making friends through play, looked after by teachers and learning assistants who truly care about their feelings.
As children grow, they start learning letters and numbers together in a friendly, helpful group. By working together and focusing on happiness and health, we make sure every child feels brave, capable, and ready for the next big step in their education.
Isabel González Corte, Early Years & KS1 Coordinator
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