(ages 2.8 to 5.5yo)
Organised into three classes (Bumblebees, Ladybugs and Butterflies), City Kids PreSchool follows the Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum with inspiration taken from other best practice educational initiatives. We think of our overall approach as “stages, not ages.”
There are four underlying principles in the EYFS, which are at the heart of our teaching and learning:
A Unique Child – we believe that every child is a unique individual. Every child is a competent learner from birth and can be resilient, capable, confident and self-assured. It is important for us to get to know and understand each child’s unique interests and strengths.
Positive Relationships – children learn to be strong and independent from a base of loving and secure relationships with parents, carers and educators. Positive relationships and community are a hugely important part of our school.
Enabling Environments – the environment plays a key role in supporting and extending a child’s development and learning. Our classrooms and learning areas are well planned and resourced to encourage curiosity, exploration and discovery.
Our classrooms are set up with different areas and children are encouraged to move around freely at their own pace and follow their interests.
There is a balance of free choice time as well as teacher-led activities and we have a beautiful and breezy covered outdoor balcony where children can play with water, sand and enjoy physical play year round.
Learning and Developing – children develop and learn in different ways and at different rates. Preschool children move through developmental stages at different speeds. The preschool is organised into three different age/development groups and our children move through the programme accordingly. All areas of learning and development are equally important.
The EYFS curriculum (Early Years Foundation Stage) has 7 areas of learning and development
Our Bumblebees enjoy a gentle introduction to preschool life. These classes support healthy separation, help children build positive relationships, and nurture confidence and independence.
We focus on early physical development, communication and language, and personal and social growth through playful, meaningful experiences.
Ladybugs continue to strengthen their social skills, develop a strong sense of self, and build a feeling of belonging within their class community.
We introduce important values such as cooperation, empathy, and kindness, helping children understand themselves and others as they learn and play together.
Our Butterflies expand their skills and capabilities through rich, engaging learning experiences.
We support self‑expression, self‑awareness, and growing independence, while gently preparing children for the transition to primary school.
As every child is unique and City Kids is a small community school, we map children’s class placement according to a variety of factors (including but not limited to age, spaces, balance of classes, children’s progress and development, social aspects, primary placements etc).
A lot of thought and personalisation goes into our placements and we are more than confident that whichever class your child is in, they will be well supported on their individual journey!
Our warm, vibrant learning community offers an ideal pathway into primary school. Our teaching approach supports children’s readiness by helping them feel confident, capable, and excited for the next step.
City Kids graduates go on to attend leading international schools, local schools and private independent schools across Hong Kong.
Here are the primary schools our children have moved onto over the last 3 years:
Children attend our preschool programme five days a week in either morning or afternoon classes. We do not offer any full-day options.
Morning classes run Monday to Friday 9am to 12noon.
Afternoon classes run Monday to Friday 1:15pm to 4:15pm.
Our days follow a predictable, comforting rhythm that helps children feel secure and ready to learn. Each class enjoys a balance of play, exploration, movement, creativity, and quiet moments.
Children gather on the carpet to listen, learn, sing, share ideas, and connect with their teachers and friends. It’s a grounding moment that builds community and sets the tone for joyful learning.
Children gather on the carpet to listen, learn, sing, share ideas, and connect with their teachers and friends. It’s a grounding moment that builds community and sets the tone for joyful learning.
Our under cover balcony offers space for big movements and gross‑motor development come rain or shine! Children climb, balance, jump, play and stretch their bodies, building strength, coordination, and confidence in a safe outdoor environment.
Areas include; role play, construction, water play, sand pit and physical development challenges.
Each week, our dedicated music teacher leads lively sessions exploring rhythm, movement, expression, and sound. Children sing, play instruments, and discover the joy of making music together.
Our in-house native Mandarin teacher runs twice‑weekly sessions with every class, introducing language through songs, stories, and playful interactions. She is also an active part of the weekly classroom, bringing Mandarin naturally into conversations and routines through small group learning and play.
We have a large shared downstairs playground which we have access to 2-3 times per week. It’s a bright, energetic space for outdoor play, social interaction, and physical development. It’s a highlight of the week (playground Fridays!) and a wonderful chance to explore beyond the classroom.
We offer an allergy‑friendly snack menu with nutritious options to keep little tummies satisfied and little minds alert. School provided snacks include a vegetable, fruit, protein and carb each day. Snack time is also a social moment where children practise independence, manners, and healthy eating habits.
Our school bus service is operated by Castle Brothers Limited, a trusted provider managing multiple routes across Hong Kong Island.
Every vehicle is equipped with secure seat belts, and their experienced drivers work hand-in-hand with dedicated bus mothers to ensure every child is looked after with the utmost care, warmth, and attention from doorstep to school gate.
Yes. Applications are assessed in the order of which they are received.
Priority is given to siblings of City Kids Preschool students and current members of our Little Stars accompanied programme. Children who are not offered an immediate spot will be placed on our waiting list.
Yes. We work closely with Castle Brothers, a trusted third‑party school bus provider serving areas including Pok Fu Lam, Mid‑Levels, Causeway Bay, and Happy Valley. Many children begin using the bus service from 2.8 years old.
For full details, please contact Robert at Castle Brothers: 2555 2088 or castlebrothers2018@gmail.com.
A limited number of parking spaces are available for City Kids parents at the front of the building on a first come, first serve basis.
Our unaccompanied Preschool programme begins at 2.8 years old.
