More than just play: introducing the International Early Years Curriculum (IEYC) at BCB

“Early Years is just play – the real learning starts in Primary school.” 

You might’ve heard a fellow parent express a similar sentiment to this. Perhaps you’ve even expressed something similar yourself. After all, in those first years of school, classrooms can often look more like playgrounds than centers of learning: blocks scattered on the floor, role-play corners, painting and chalk walls, and children running busily in all directions. 
 
But here’s the truth, grounded in systematic research: in high-quality Early Years education settings, play is never ‘just play’. 
 
Every tower built from blocks, every story acted out in fancy dress, every question asked while getting hands-on with the outdoors environment is part of a carefully designed framework that develops the foundation for lifelong learning. Play – when guided with intent – shapes problem-solvers, communicators and confident learners. 
 
The International Early Years Curriculum (IEYC) brings world-class, playful learning experiences to our classrooms here at The British College of Brazil. 
 

What is the IEYC? 

The International Early Years Curriculum (IEYC) is a research-informed programme designed for children aged 2 to 5. It is already implemented in 60+ countries worldwide and is part of the same family of curricula that includes the International Primary Curriculum (IPC), which BCB has successfully delivered for the past few years leading to its recent recognition from the International Curriculum Associaton (ICA). 
 
With the IEYC, learning for our youngest pupils is joyful and engaging, but also intentional, structured, and globally aligned. It ensures that the vital foundations of social, emotional, and academic skills are nurtured from the very beginning. 
 

The IEYC learning process 

 
The IEYC recognises that young children learn best through active, hands-on, playful learning experiences across three domains of learning – academic, personal and international. Teachers guide learning by connecting purposeful play with real developmental outcomes. 
 
Here's how it works in practice: 
 
1. Wellbeing first – a safe, happy environment is where children feel secure enough to explore and take risks. 
 
2. Play with purpose – planning activities designed to build communication, literacy, numeracy, and critical thinking through exploration and creativity. 
 
3. Holistic development – supporting not just academic development, but also social skills, emotional intelligence, and resilience. 

4. Global perspectives – embedding international themes and ideas, so children grow up curious about the wider world. 

 

Debunking the myth: “It’s only play” 

Parents often wonder: If my child is just playing, are they really learning? 
 
Here’s a few examples why the answer is a resounding YES: 
 

• Building with blocks develops spatial reasoning, mathematical concepts, and persistence. 
• Role-play (pretend shops, hospitals, kitchens etc.) builds vocabulary, empathy, and collaboration. 
• Outdoor exploration fosters scientific inquiry and curiosity about the natural world.
• Storytime and singing spark language acquisition, imagination and memory.  

When viewed through the IEYC framework, play is not random – it is purposeful, structured and developmental. 
 

The Early Years matter at BCB 

 

As of 2025, BCB is the only international school in São Paulo approved to deliver the IEYC. This recognition from the International Curriculum Association (ICA) highlights our commitment to innovation and excellence in Early Years education. 
 
Our youngest learners – from age 2 – are now taught a curriculum that is: 
 

• Globally benchmarked, used in over 60 countries 
• Research-driven, aligning with the latest child development studies
• Future-focused, preparing children for a continuous love for learning 

 
As BCB has already been licensed to deliver the IPC for a few years now, the addition of the IEYC means that our children benefit from a consistent, world-class learning journey from their very first steps into school. 

A lifelong foundation 

The Early Years matter more than many people realise. Research shows that by age five, 90% of a child’s brain development is already complete. These years lay the groundwork not just for academic success, but for confidence, creativity and resilience. 
 
At BCB, the IEYC ensures that these crucial years are filled with joy, purpose, and opportunity – so that every child can grow into the best version of themselves. 
 
Because under the right guidance, play is never “just play” - it's the beginning of a journey with no limits!