New English International Stream (EIS) for Early Years

The International French School (Singapore) is launching its English International Stream (EIS) in September 2026 for its international kindergarten, which will see IFS students experience structured, inquiry-based learning in Early Years education. Director of Marketing Communications, Events & Admissions at IFS, SEBASTIEN BARNARD, shares what families can expect.

Tell us more about the English International Stream.

The EIS is a new, English-taught programme. Teaching is delivered predominantly in English, with meaningful exposure to French or Mandarin.

The first cohort of students will begin classes at the start of the 2026/27 academic year. At launch, the EIS will be available exclusively for Kindergarten (École Maternelle), covering ages three to five years, and Grade 1, age six years.

Our preliminary plans are to open Grades 2 and 3 in September 2027, and Grades 4 and 5 in September 2028.

What does the EIS curriculum for early years education look like?

The EIS offers a structured yet inquiry-driven early years education that blends the strengths of the French National Education framework with globally aligned early childhood learning.

The curriculum focuses on:

• strong foundations in early literacy, numeracy and communication;
• inquiry-based, play-led and project-based learning;
• creativity, social development and confidence building; and
• access to the facilities and co-curricular activities at IFS, including sports, arts and creative programmes.

How will the Early Years curriculum develop as students move into Primary School?

The curriculum will be designed to grow progressively with the child, while remaining firmly anchored in the strengths and structure of the French education model.

As the EIS expands from the Kindergarten into Primary School, teaching will continue to be delivered predominantly in English. This removes barriers for non-Francophone families. The French curriculum will be carefully mapped and adapted to an English-medium context, ensuring that learning objectives are met without diluting academic standards.

Students will receive continuity, coherence and academic credibility as they move from early years into Primary education. The Primary curriculum will include:

• clear learning progressions;
• strong academic expectations in literacy, numeracy and core disciplines; and
• structured teaching practices that support depth of understanding and academic rigour.

As the programme matures, the Primary curriculum will increasingly align with internationally recognised educational frameworks, allowing students to follow pathways that are well understood by universities and school systems worldwide.

How does the EIS complement the current offerings at IFS?

It sits alongside the school’s French and bilingual pathways, and is distinct from the English International (British) section offered at Middle School level.

The EIS broadens access to IFS for families seeking an English language entry point, while maintaining the school’s academic rigour, multilingual philosophy and strong educational values.

Who is this stream for?

The EIS is designed for non-Francophone expatriates and internationally mobile families. It’s suitable for children who are comfortable learning in English or are developing English as their primary language of instruction.

Admissions considers age-appropriate readiness and the child’s ability to engage in an English-speaking learning environment.

EIS registration for 2026/27 for our international Kindergarten is already open. Contact the admissions team at administration@ifs.edu.sg for more information; you can also arrange a school visit.

International French School is at 3000 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 3.
6805 0000 | ifs.edu.sg

This article about the EIS inquiry-based learning in Early Years education at the International French School (Singapore)’s Kindergarten first appeared in the February 2026 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase the latest issue or subscribe so you never miss a copy!

Read more about the new Kindergarten Principal at IFS and also a new building for IFS Kindergarten.