Joyful Journeys, Bright Futures: Where Early Learning Begins at MIS
When families choose a school for their youngest children, they are not simply choosing a place of learning; they are choosing a second home. At MIS, we believe that joyful journeys in the early years lay the foundations for bright futures ahead. As Deputy Head of the school, and following a recent conversation with our Head of Early Years, Ms. Mercedes, I was reminded just how intentionally and thoughtfully these first steps in education are designed at MIS.
One of the defining features
of our Early Years provision is our exceptional outdoor learning environment. At a time when many young children spend increasing amounts of time indoors, we have made a conscious decision to prioritise outdoor exploration.
Our Early Years outdoor spaces allow children to explore freely within a safe, carefully planned environment. Here, children climb, balance, build, dig, run and imagine, developing physical confidence, social skills and independence through meaningful play.
With spaces designed to encourage movement, curiosity and imaginative play, it offers children the opportunity to take age-appropriate risks and build resilience in a supportive setting. Alongside this, MIS Minis, our twice-weekly, activity-led playgroup for younger children, offers families an inviting introduction to school life. Through structured play, songs, stories and hands-on activities, MIS Minis provides a nurturing first step into learning, helping children build confidence while allowing parents to connect with our Early Years team and wider school community.
A key enhancement to our curriculum is Adventure Time, an opportunity for children to take ownership of their learning. During Adventure Time, children can create their own learning-related adventures that reflect their interests, or they may be guided by their teacher to explore particular skills, concepts or areas of the environment. This balance between child-led exploration and thoughtful adult support ensures that learning remains purposeful while still feeling exciting and engaging. Adventure Time works hand in hand with the development of our continuous provision, particularly in our outdoor areas. Carefully resourced learning zones remain available over time, allowing children to revisit ideas, practise skills and deepen understanding. Whether children are engaged in role play, construction, early writing, problem-solving or collaborative activities, they are encouraged to think, communicate and explore at their own pace. Our teachers observe closely, stepping in at just the right moment to extend learning or introduce new challenges.
Under the leadership of Ms. Mercedes, our Early Years team places the child firmly at the centre of everything they do. Academic foundations are built alongside confidence, emotional wellbeing and a genuine love of learning. Children are encouraged to be curious, to ask questions, to persevere and to celebrate their achievements, qualities that underpin bright futures well beyond the Early Years.
For expatriate families in Pattaya, choosing the right school is an important decision. At MIS, our Early Years provision offers a warm, stimulating and inspiring environment where joyful journeys lead naturally to bright futures.
MIS Minis is open to children from 8 to 24 months, on Mondays 8 – 10am and Thursdays 3 – 4:30pm.
Please contact [email protected] for more information.
