Early Years Foundation Stage

Welcome to Early Years

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), is the entry point of formal schooling at Dubai Scholars. This program sets the standards that promote teaching and learning to ensure children’s school readiness. Our program gives children a broad range of knowledge and skills that provide the right foundation for good future progress through school and life.

There are four guiding principles that shape teaching practice in foundation settings. These are:

Every child is a unique child, who is constantly learning and can be resilient, capable, confident and self-assured.
Children learn to be strong and independent through positive relationships.
Children learn and develop well in enabling environments, in which their experiences relate to their individual needs and there is a strong partnership between school and home and
Children develop and learn in different ways and at different rates.

The seven areas of learning and development within the EYFS are equally important and interconnected. Three areas are particularly crucial for igniting children’s curiosity and enthusiasm for learning, and for building their capacity to learn, form relationships and thrive.

These three prime areas are:

Communication and Language
Physical Development
Personal, Social and Emotional Development.

The four specific areas of learning, through which the three prime areas are strengthened and applied, are:

Literacy
Mathematics
Understanding the World
Expressive Arts and Design

In planning and guiding children’s activities, teachers assess the different learning styles children employ and reflect these in their practice. Three characteristics of effective teaching and learning are:

Playing and exploring – children investigate, experience and encounter new activities.
Active learning – children concentrate and are encouraged to continue working when they encounter difficulties, and enjoy achievements.
Creating and thinking critically – children have and develop their own ideas, make links between ideas, and develop strategies around projects

At Dubai Scholars, we believe that the early years lay the strongest foundation for a lifetime of learning, growth, and discovery. As Head of Foundation Stage, I am deeply committed to nurturing each child’s curiosity and fostering a love for learning that will remain with them throughout their educational journey.

Guided by our core values of respect, integrity, excellence, and global citizenship, our Foundation Stage is a vibrant, inclusive environment where every child’s unique abilities are celebrated. We embrace the principles of the EYFS, ensuring that children learn through play, exploration, and meaningful interactions. Here, children are encouraged to ask questions, think creatively, and develop independence—preparing them not only for school, but for the world beyond.

Our dedicated team works in close partnership with families, recognising that together, we build the strongest support for each child’s wellbeing and success. We are passionate about creating a safe, caring space where children feel valued, confident, and inspired to be the best versions of themselves.

At Dubai Scholars Foundation Stage, we are not just preparing children for the next stage of education—we are laying the groundwork for compassionate, inquisitive, and resilient lifelong learners and future leaders.

Together, let’s inspire a bright tomorrow—one child at a time

Pooja Jaitely

Head of EYFS

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Early Years (EYFS) - Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Early Years Foundation Stage at Dubai Scholars?

The EYFS is the entry point of formal schooling at Dubai Scholars, covering Nursery, FS1 and FS2. It follows the British Early Years Foundation Stage framework and focuses on school readiness through play, exploration and meaningful interaction.

What do children learn in EYFS?

Learning covers seven areas. The three prime areas are Communication and Language, Physical Development, and Personal, Social and Emotional Development. The four specific areas are Literacy, Mathematics, Understanding the World, and Expressive Arts and Design.

What is the age criteria for FS1 and FS2?

For 2026-27, children joining FS1 must be born before 31 December 2023, and children joining FS2 must be born before 31 December 2022, in line with KHDA regulations for British curriculum schools.

What are the EYFS school timings?

Nursery, FS1 and FS2 run from 8:15 am to 12:10 pm, Monday to Thursday, and from 8:15 am to 11:15 am on Friday. Children should arrive at least 10 minutes before class begins.

Are there teaching assistants in the Early Years classes?

Yes. Teaching assistants support children in Nursery, FS1 and FS2, as well as in Years 1 and 2.

How much are the EYFS fees for 2026-27?

Annual tuition is AED 15,833 for FS1 and AED 16,403 for FS2. The KHDA approved Nursery fee is AED 25,000. Full term-by-term details are on the School Fees page.

Who leads the Early Years at Dubai Scholars?

The Foundation Stage is led by Pooja Jaitely, Head of EYFS.