Early Years Learning in Action: How Nature Sparks Curiosity at Dover Court

In the Early Years at Dover Court International School (DCIS), learning begins with exploration, curiosity and meaningful hands-on experiences. One of the most loved projects in Nursery this term has taken place in the garden – a space where little hands have been busy digging, planting, watering and watching nature unfold.

From clearing the soil and planting tiny seeds to caring for young sprouts each day, our Nursery learners have shown just how observant and capable young children can be. As they tend to their garden, their comments reveal the depth of their noticing:

• “First roots, then the tree trunk.”
• “Some so big, some small!”

These moments reflect the heart of Early Years learning at DCIS: authentic discovery, supported by knowledgeable teachers and thoughtfully designed environments. Our lush, green campus provides a calm, welcoming backdrop for this kind of exploration, giving children daily opportunities to connect with nature in meaningful ways.

Building Understanding Through Hands On Exploration

In our Early Years, the environment acts as a “third teacher”, inviting children to slow down, observe closely and make meaning through touch, movement, and conversation.

Nature offers endless opportunities for investigation. As the children examine soil, water, sunlight and growth, they start to develop early scientific concepts through hands-on, joyful learning.

Each new sprout sparks excitement:

• “It’s a yellow one!”
• “There are more coming!”
• “Let’s draw it!”

They represent their thinking through drawing, mark making and photography, recording not just what they see, but how they see it. This simple project becomes a rich learning journey – blending language, observation, early science, creativity and collaboration.

Nurturing Responsibility, Confidence and Connection to Nature

Caring for the garden gives children meaningful ways to learn together. As they water, observe and help one another, they naturally begin to practise responsibility and cooperation. Most of all, they build a gentle, joyful connection with the natural world.

These experiences help children realise that their ideas have value. They begin to take initiative, make choices, and see themselves as confident and capable learners – qualities we aim to nurture at every stage of a child’s Early Years journey at Dover Court.

Experience the Early Years at Dover Court

Families interested in learning more about our Early Years approach are warmly invited to join our Early Childhood Discovery Tours for children aged 3–5. These small group sessions provide a welcoming opportunity to explore our learning spaces, meet our Early Years Leadership Team, and see first-hand how our environments inspire young learners.

Click here to learn more and register.

We look forward to welcoming you to campus and sharing what makes learning in the Early Years at Dover Court so special.