Creating and Growing: What Makes WAB Early Years Special

At Western Academy of Beijing, our Early Years program is grounded in the belief that children are capable, competent learners who thrive when given the space, support, and trust to direct their own journey. Every day, our Early Years classrooms come alive with curiosity and collaboration.  

Research shows that early years lay the foundation for lifelong learning. When children are encouraged to explore, problem-solve, and connect with others from the very start, they develop creativity, resilience, empathy, and agency early, better preparing them for their later school years and beyond.  

One of the things that makes WAB’s Early Years truly special is our diversity. Our learners come from multicultural backgrounds, and our program reflects that richness. Whether it’s listening to a Swiss teacher read stories in Swiss German at nap time or connecting with high school “language buddies” who share a home language with their Early Years buddy, students experience the joy of multiple cultures and voices. In this warm and connected environment, this exposure at a young age builds the intercultural understanding and open-mindedness that is increasingly important in today’s world. 

“In Early Years, our goal is to give them the confidence and independence to see themselves as capable learners from the very beginning," said Melina Neira, Early Years Learning Leader.

This year, our Early Year students are also embarking on a meaningful community action project with Grade 11 buddies through a partnership with Paws for Love. Under the theme “Caring for Creatures, Caring for People,” Early Years students will meet their high school buddies, learn from experts, and design their own ways to take action to support animal and human welfare. From learning about caring for rescue dogs, to joining in the April Day of Action, children are developing empathy, responsibility, and starting off their journey to become leaders in their communities and global citizens in action. 

In a rapidly changing world of AI and automation, agency is at the heart of what we do. From the moment they walk into class, children make choices about how they learn, play, and express themselves. They might build with cardboard and tape in the Maker Space, whip up imaginative meals in the mud kitchen, or explore role play and sensory areas. Our teachers have carefully designed open-ended opportunities and then step back, letting children lead while offering guidance when needed. The result is independent, creative, adaptive learners who are confident their voice matters. 

Social-emotional learning and wellbeing is another important aspect of our program that allows our students to flourish as learners. Using everyday teachable moments and resources like Second Step, we help children navigate emotions and grow in independence. This could include learning how to ask for help or how to join in play. With the support of parents, counselors, and learning specialists, we surround children with a village of care that builds their resilience and encourages them to engage with their learning environment.  

Our approach is inspired by the Reggio Emilia philosophy, which views the learning environment as the “third teacher.” Every space, from the classroom to the outdoor play areas, is intentionally designed to encourage exploration and collaboration. Real-world materials like child-safe utensils, pans, and mud kitchens connect learning to life, while teachers observe and guide, ensuring every child is seen and supported. 

At WAB, we strive to connect student learning to meaningful, real-world contexts. We nurture not only academics, but also empathy, independence, and confidence. In the Early Years, children begin to understand that they are capable of making choices, sharing their own ideas, and acting with kindness. These early experiences shape who they will become, curious learners, compassionate friends, and confident contributors to the world. That’s what makes WAB Early Years truly special.