Where Next

                                                                               Where to next?

School versus Early Learning Center

Have you been wondering about FS1 or FS2 for your child? We know it can be quite daunting with so many options for schooling in Dubai: When to register? Which school or ELC is best? How will my child manage in the assessment?

These are all questions we aim to answer, as we get down to the nitty gritty to find out about the options and benefits of attending FS in an Early Learning Center, so you can make an informed decision about the best future learning journey for your child.

In Dubai, children can enter into FS1 in the British system if they are 3 years by August 31^st and FS2 if they are 4 years by August 31^st. Take a look at the age requirements of private schools (and Early Learning Centers) in Dubai according to the UAE Ministry of Education Resolution no. (24) 2021

Did you know?

Oakfield Early Learning Center in JLT is registered with the Knowledge & Human Development Authority (KHDA) as fully licensed to offer FS1, FS2 and Year 1 (3 – 6+ years).

In fact, Oakfield ELC’s UK Foundation Stage curriculum & timetable, not only matches the FS programme in primary school – but it many cases it actually exceeds, with many of Oakfield’s FS students being recognised as top achievers when assessed for Year 1 in primary; far ahead of their peers with reading, writing and social skills.

We collaborate with some of the top schools in Dubai who welcome Oakfield students into Year 1. Both Arcadia and Horizon School took many Oakfield FS2 students last September, and parents tell us that the schools are amazed at their child’s academic and social aptitude.

Did you know?

Oakfield’s teachers are all fully qualified and experienced to teach FS in the Foundation section of either a primary school or Early Childhood Center. Furthermore, all Oakfield’s FS children are registered with the KHDA as ‘enrolled in FS’ and do not have to repeat FS once they go to primary school.

Did you know

A USA Based Research showed that students who have smaller classes in early elementary grades continue to benefit from this experience even if they are in larger classes in upper elementary or middle school (Bruhwiler & Blatchford, 2011; Chingos, 2013).

This fact has been linked less to the quality of instruction, and more to the higher degree of attention each child is able to get in a small class environment.

This is particularly relevant in the case of young children. ie. Primary School children benefit the most. Let’s look a bit closer at how small classes and ratios can benefit children:

Class sizes and Ratios

Oakfield’s smaller class sizes offer more individual teacher/student interaction.

Children receive more support where it’s needed and develop meaningful, positive relationships with teachers and staff. Therefore, communication and language is increased, impacting all round progress.

• Smaller schools such as Oakfield ELC in JLT, benefit a less-confident child who may get lost in the shuffle of a large school.
• Smaller classes are less stressful, as fewer conflicts arise.
• Children in smaller classes tend to work well as a group and bond closely to one another, which makes for a secure environment.
• Children in small classes don’t get sick as often because there are fewer children spreading germs.
• Teachers are better able to identify a student’s strengths and areas where improvement is needed, so they can help address the needs of each student in the class.

Most FS classes in primary schools have between 18 – 25 students, with 1 class teacher & 1 assistant. Here at Oakfield DMCC our FS classrooms house 10 – 15 students only, with 1 fully qualified EYFS teacher and 1 qualified assistant.

School Readiness

In Oakfield ELC, we ensure that our children are fully prepared for Year 1, both academically and socially. They leave Oakfield as confident and independent readers, writing and problem solving, with a high level of social aptitude.

More confidence

High quality pre-schooling is related to better intellectual and social/behavioral development for children. In ELC’s children in pre-school are the oldest and gain confidence while being the “big fish in a small pond” as opposed to being a “small fish in the big ocean”.

Differentiation

With smaller classes, teachers are able to plan and deliver activities for the differing abilities in the class. This ensures all children are reaching their full potential.

There’s no doubt that there are many benefits to children attending FS in an ELC. Here’s what our proud parents have got to say about Oakfield:

‘It’s the end of a very important chapter in Harleys life. Can’t believe we won’t have Oakfield Early Learning Centre in our lives from September. You have been an extended family to us and have been incredible in shaping Harley’s confident character. Mums looking for ELC’s up to FS2, this is the school you want for your child’.

Livia Anzaldo

‘Ella got the best connector award for her ability to care and connect with kids. She was also recognised for her vocabulary as being way ahead of her grade. For that I need to thank Veneet Mohan and his preschool, Oakfield ELC in Dubai!’

Triptta Neb (From Canada)

‘The Oakfield staff has played an essential role in the adaptation of our 2 French/German children upon our arrival to Dubai. In just 2 weeks time they were able to understand basic English and sing their first songs and rhymes.’

Lucie and Pierre de Feuarden

‘Oakfield is the only school that recognized my son’s high intelligence and stretched him further. There was never a question where my other 2 children would go. Thank you Oakfield’.

Katerina, Daniel’s mummy

To conclude, at the end of the day there are many reasons which can affect the final choice for your child’s educational journey; location, siblings fees, child’s readiness are all equally important and can’t be overlooked.

Some of the other popular schools in Dubai include: