Igniting Curiosity In Early Years Through Hands-On Learning At Nexus International School (Singapore)

At the Nexus Early Years hub, they are constantly seeking new ways to provide their youngest learners with engaging and authentic learning experiences – after all, children learn best when they are having fun! Recently, they introduced two new exciting additions to their space: a woodworking station and a hydroponics farm.

Take a closer look at their Early Years spaces at their upcoming Open Day on October 28, 2023. Sign up for a dedicated Early Years slots at 10am or 11am! Online slot also available at 4pm-5pm

Getting Crafty With Woodworking

Expanding upon the outdoor area that offers sensory play with sandpits and water play, one of the teachers, Ms. Karen, wanted to introduce woodworking to the learners.

As a woodworker herself, she guided learners on how to safely navigate the woodworking station, understand the tools and their purposes. They also got to experience the art of sawing! Opportunities like these are driven by the dedication of the teachers at Nexus who are constantly seeking new activities to engage their learners.

Bringing Plant Life to the Classroom: Hydroponics

Recently, the Nexus Early Years Hub got their very own hydroponic farm in addition to the other units in the school’s Atrium. The Head of Early Years, Ms. Kimberly, had been working with the Early Years learners as they explored their Unit of Inquiry, ‘How the World Works’. She recognised the enthusiasm that the learners had for gardening and plant life and championed the installation of hydroponic farms within their learning space. Not only did the learners get to plant and harvest seedlings, it was also an opportunity for them to observe the plant cycle on a daily basis.

Transdisciplinary Activities

Nexus constantly looks for opportunities to create genuine, authentic learning experiences for their learners. As a school, they also approach learning through a transdisciplinary lens. For example, the Early Years learners explored mathematics, artistry, and fine motor skills through woodworking and delved into the science of growth cycles and honed their fine motor skills while handling seeds and preparing plant pots through the hydroponics. The young learners also explored themes around sustainability.

Nexus goes the extra mile to provide its learners with these exciting learning opportunities as it strives to nurture its learners holistically and prepare them for whatever the future may bring.