Learning environment
A prepared, stimulating space that invites exploration.
Ages 12 months – 5 years
Our Nursery & Preschool Programmes in Oud Metha, Dubai
A British EYFS curriculum delivered through play, in English and Arabic.
The EYFS
A high-quality, play-based foundation
At AKELC in Oud Metha, we deliver a British Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum for children aged 12 months to 5 years — a structured yet nurturing foundation for early education. Our carefully structured yet flexible approach recognises that the early years are critical for cognitive, social and emotional development.
What is the British EYFS?
The EYFS is the statutory framework for children from birth to five in England and British curriculum schools internationally. At AKELC learning unfolds naturally through exploration, interaction and guided discovery, using the HighScope Plan-Do-Review approach. Our programme is enhanced with Arabic instruction, and for FS1 we adopt a bilingual Arabic approach.
[IMAGE: Sensory sand tray activity]
Prime areas
- Communication & language
- Physical development
- Personal, social & emotional
Specific areas
- Literacy
- Mathematics
- Understanding the world
- Expressive arts & design
Programmes
A room for every stage
[IMAGE: Young toddler at play]
12–24 months
Young Toddler Class
Over 800 sq ft of space — more than enough for young toddlers to practise walking, develop motor skills, dance and play with peers, and engage in learning with classroom materials.
[IMAGE: Toddler reading with a teacher]
25–35 months
Older Toddler Class (pre-FS1)
We build on children's self-awareness, self-regulation and independence, promoting the skills needed to learn independently, in groups, and to share thoughts and ideas with others.
[IMAGE: FS1 table activity]
3–4 years
Foundation Stage 1 (FS1)
Continued enrichment in literacy and numeracy through play and mastery of key skills for the transition to primary. We introduce phonics using Jolly Phonics; every day children plan their work and discuss their ideas.
[IMAGE: Preschool learning activity]
4–5 years
Foundation Stage 2 (FS2)
A school-readiness continuation that builds confident, independent learners well prepared for primary school.
Our offering
Young children learn best through active engagement with people, materials, events and ideas.
Daily routine
A predictable yet flexible rhythm that builds security.
Bilingual programme
Daily English and Arabic, supporting each child's home language.
Ample space for exploration
Room to move, create and discover through trial and error.
Beyond the classroom
Enrichment & afterschool
Termly activities, open to the wider community.
Music & Movement
Music Monkeys, weekly afternoons, ages 1–4.
Dance & Soccer
Sportzcise, weekly afternoons, ages 2–6.
Open to the community
Enrichment sessions welcome families beyond AKELC. Contact us for dates and fees.
Literacy first
Almost 4,000 books
The AKELC Library
We are dedicated to cultivating a lifelong love of reading. With almost 4,000 books in stock, there is something of interest for every child. Visit to sign up for library membership and borrow books to take home.
See our nursery[IMAGE: Library reading circle]
Community
Volunteering: a collective effort
Volunteering is at the heart of our community ethos — whether you're a CACHE student, parent, or member of the Dubai community. Read a story, assist with arts and crafts, or share your expertise during special events. Contact us to learn more.
Find the right start for your child
Book a tour and see our programmes in action.
Or call +971 4 336 7676