Cambridge, a leading provider of international education programs globally, is introducing its first early years education program aimed at supporting early childhood education in Nigeria for children as young as 3 years old.
The new play-based program, initially successful in India, has been meticulously crafted to give children aged 3 to 6 an excellent foundation, enabling them to achieve critical early milestones and flourish both inside and outside the classroom. Cambridge Early Years will serve as the initial phase in the Cambridge Pathway, a cohesive educational route designed for academic success for children aged 3 to 19.
Several studies have underscored the critical importance of education during the early years. Research from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) International Early Learning and Child Well-being Study reveals that a high-quality early childhood education and care (ECEC) can significantly enhance children’s verbal comprehension and other essential skills.
Cambridge’s decision to expand its educational offerings is poised to support schools in Nigeria and globally in enhancing their early years education, an initiative expected to yield long-term benefits for parents, teachers, and the holistic development of children as they progress through their academic journey.
Rod Smith, Group Managing Director for International Education at Cambridge, emphasized the significance of early childhood development, underlining the positive impact it can have on a child’s future. He emphasized the program’s goal to provide stimulating and enriching learning experiences to children, leveraging Cambridge’s unparalleled expertise in high-quality education.
The Cambridge Early Years program is founded on 12 key principles derived from extensive research on curriculum principles and best practices in early years education, fostering a play-based approach and a gradual transition to formal teaching in preparation for primary education. The program not only focuses on imparting knowledge but also equips children with crucial skills necessary for adapting to an ever-evolving world.
Juan Visser, Regional Director, Sub-Saharan Africa for International Education at Cambridge, expressed enthusiasm for the addition of the new phase to the Cambridge Pathway, aiming to fulfill the demands of schools. He highlighted the comprehensive support and the incorporation of globally recognized best practices in the program to aid schools in Nigeria in fostering children’s long-term development and preparedness for the future.
Cambridge’s approach aims to provide a coherent and integrated early years education, streamlining different components such as resources, curricula, assessments, and training. This comprehensive strategy seeks to ensure that schools can offer a holistic and high-quality early years education experience for their learners.
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