It’s not just play. Why do the Early Years matter?

At La Côte International School (LCIS), we welcome children from the age of 3 to our Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). We take the word Foundation to heart, ensuring that we foster a love of learning, and lay the ground for future success. This is a time of joyful exploration, gentle structure, and meaningful play—where curiosity is celebrated, and every day is a new adventure.

Learning In The Moment

A core principle of our Early Years education is to engage with a child in the moment, when they first show curiosity, and to join them to naturally expand their learning through play.

Flexible, Nurturing, and Child-Centred

Our Foundation 1 (ages 3–4) offers flexible options to suit your lifestyle and needs. Whether your child joins us for mornings, afternoons, or full days, with or without lunch and After School Care (ASC), you choose the rhythm that works best. We’re here to support your child’s growth in a way that feels right for them.

Our school day begins at 8:30, with play, creative exploration, and guided learning. Children can enjoy a healthy lunch in our welcoming dining area or bring a packed lunch and eat alongside their friends. We firmly believe that mealtimes are a social event, as well as an opportunity to practice mealtime etiquette.

Foundation 2 marks the start of formal schooling and at LCIS, it’s still full of wonder. Alongside core subjects, children begin their learning journey with structured French lessons, tailored to both native speakers and beginners. Through fun, consistent routines, children build confidence, language skills, and a love for communication.

The Benefits of an Early Start at LCIS

Confidence and Readiness
Through play-based learning, children develop key skills that help them transition happily into primary school.
A Familiar Place, Friendly Faces
Early Years children grow comfortable with their surroundings, making the shift to formal education joyful and smooth.
Inspired by Expert Educators
Our qualified EYFS staff foster each child’s natural talents while preparing them for the structured learning ahead.
Early Support, Lasting Impact
Early identification of learning needs ensures every child receives the care and support they deserve from the very beginning.
Purposeful Play, Real Learning
Our curriculum is full of discovery, underpinned by educational goals that promote progress and independence.
A World of Enriching Experiences
From music and art to science and outdoor play, our children are immersed in exciting, hands-on learning every day.

A Truly International Community

At LCIS we celebrate diversity. Our community includes families from over 40 countries, creating a rich, multilingual environment where every child feels at home. Ensuring every learner thrives, we provide tailored support in both English and French.

We are very much a family school, and we see how younger children joining the same school as their older siblings are able settle in swiftly and feel secure. Siblings often share smiles in the corridor, stories at home, and friendships across age groups—nurturing strong connections and a warm sense of belonging. For families, having all children in one welcoming place just makes life easier.

You are warmly invited to connect with our Admissions Team and book a visit to learn more about how we nurture confident, capable learners.

Let’s take the first joyful step in your child’s learning journey—together.