Windfield International School
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Maternelle (preschool / early years, ages 2–6)

The Maternelle stage is the very first step of the French educational pathway. It is designed for children aged 2 to 6 years and includes:

  • Toute Petite Section (TPS) Ages 2
  • Petite Section (PS) Ages 3–4
  • Moyenne Section (MS) Ages 4–5
  • Grande Section (GS) Ages 5–6

This stage focuses on language, socialising, creativity, and exploration. Through play and active learning, children develop the essential skills that form the foundation of all future education.

  • Cycle 1 (Ages 2–6)
    • TPS (Toute Petite Section): Age 2
    • PS (Petite Section): Age 3–4
    • MS (Moyenne Section): Age 4–5
    • GS (Grande Section): Ages 5–6

The curriculum is structured around five key areas of learning:

  1. Language Development encompasses oral and written expression, vocabulary building, listening, and comprehension.
  2. Early Mathematics and Logical thinking – numbers, shapes, measurements, and problem-solving.
  3. Exploration of the World encompasses scientific awareness and the exploration of nature and the environment.
  4. The arts and physical development encompass activities such as music, drawing, dance, movement, and coordination.
  5. Socialisation and autonomy – cooperation, respect for others, responsibility, and independence.

At Windfield, our Maternelle teachers use methods that are play-based, interactive, and child-centred.

  • Hands-on learning – through manipulation, play, and sensory exploration.
  • Observation and imitation – modeling and reproducing actions and languages.
  • Children are encouraged to express themselves and communicate with their peers through verbalisation and interaction.
  • Active pedagogy involves project-based learning and creative activities.

By the end of Maternelle, children will have developed the following skills:

  • The children will have developed language and communication skills, including listening, speaking, and early literacy.
  • Mathematical reasoning involves comprehending concepts such as numbers, sizes, and spatial relations.
  • Creativity and artistic expression encompass activities such as art, music, movement, and role-playing.
  • Autonomy and social skills involve working with others, adhering to routines, and exercising self-regulation.
  • Continuous observation of progress and achievements.
  • The Achievement booklet (Cahier de Réussite) is used for recording milestones.
  • Livret Scolaire Unique (LSU) – the official progress record, updated three times a year.
  • The end-of-cycle assessment occurs at the conclusion of GS.

The purpose of Maternelle is to:

  • Stimulate curiosity, creativity, and a love for learning.
  • Provide a strong foundation in language and early mathematics.
  • Develop social and emotional readiness for school life.
  • Ensure a smooth transition to Élémentaire (primary school, cycle 2, ages 6–9).

Why Choose Maternelle at Windfield?

  • A nurturing and stimulating environment adapted to young learners.
  • Qualified French teachers have specialised in early childhood education.
  • The curriculum strikes a balance between academic preparation, creativity, and play.
  • There is a significant emphasis on fostering bilingual development within an international setting.
  • A seamless pathway into the French and international education systems.

At Windfield International School, Maternelle is where children take their first steps into education with joy, confidence, and curiosity, setting the stage for future academic and personal success.