International playgroup in Bangkok at Ascot International School
International playgroup in Bangkok at Ascot International School If you are looking for a warm and welcoming international playgroup in
Choosing the right time to enter primary school can shape a child’s learning journey for many years. For children aged 5–7, joining Year 1 or Year 2 is not “late” or “early”. It is a powerful moment where academic skills, confidence, and social belonging grow together in a natural way.
At Ascot International School, Year 1 and Year 2 are designed to help children settle, grow, and succeed both in the classroom and in daily school life.
Year 1 and Year 2 focus on building foundations the right way. Children are not rushed into heavy academics. Instead, they learn through play, exploration, discussion, and guided activities that suit their age and development.
At this stage, children are ready to:
Because learning is carefully scaffolded, children feel capable and proud of their progress. This helps them develop a positive attitude towards school from the very beginning.
In Year 1 and Year 2, students learn through the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP). Lessons are built around real questions such as “Why does this happen?” and “How can we solve this problem?”
This inquiry-based approach helps children:
Instead of memorising facts, students learn how to learn. This skill supports them not only in Primary School, but throughout their future education.
Academically, these years are a key time for literacy and mathematics development.
In literacy, children learn to:
In mathematics, learning focuses on understanding numbers, patterns, and problem-solving. Children use hands-on materials, games, and real-life situations so maths feels meaningful and useful.
This approach builds true understanding and confidence, rather than fear of making mistake
Joining in Year 1 or Year 2 also supports strong social development. These years help children learn how to:
Because students grow together from the start of Primary School, they develop a strong sense of belonging. They feel secure, known, and valued in their class.
Children learn best when they feel safe and supported. That is why wellbeing is part of daily learning.
Through structured social-emotional lessons, children practise empathy, kindness, self-control, and problem-solving. They learn how to calm themselves, listen to others, and ask for help when needed.
These skills support learning in every subject and help children feel confident in school and beyond.
Every child develops at a different pace. Teachers closely observe progress and provide support early when needed.
For children learning English, specialist EAL support helps them access the curriculum while building confidence in communication. Learning gaps are identified early and addressed gently, so children stay motivated and positive.
This personalised support helps children feel successful and included.
Academic learning continues through specialist subjects and activities. Children enjoy STEM, creative arts, physical education, swimming, and a wide range of extra-curricular activities.
These experiences help children:
Enjoy a balanced school life
Year 1 and Year 2 provide a gentle bridge from Early Years into Primary School. Clear routines, caring teachers, and strong communication with families help children settle quickly.
Parents are involved and informed, creating trust and partnership between home and school.
Entering in Year 1 or Year 2 works because children build academic skills, social confidence, and emotional wellbeing at the same time. They do not just start school, they grow into it.
These early years create a strong foundation for future success, confidence, and lifelong learning.
Experience the difference
The best way to understand this stage is to see it in action. Families are welcome to visit, observe lessons, and experience how learning and belonging grow together from the very start.
International playgroup in Bangkok at Ascot International School If you are looking for a warm and welcoming international playgroup in
Year 4 students share Christmas joy with a carol performance at Bangkok Hospital The Christmas season is a time for
Wai Kru ceremony at Ascot International School The Wai Kru ceremony is one of the most meaningful Thai traditions celebrated
