Welcoming children from age three, ISA provides a nurturing space where curiosity is encouraged, friendships are formed, and children begin to understand their place in the wider world.
Through hands-on activities and time spent in well-designed indoor and outdoor areas, every child is supported to learn in a way that feels natural and enjoyable.
From preschool onwards, International School Aberdeen offers extended care that gives families flexibility and children the chance to learn, play, and grow in a safe and supportive environment. With flexible attendance options parents can choose what will suit their family.
ISA’s early years approach is rooted in the belief that play builds the foundation for lifelong learning. Children explore topics in ways that make sense to them by painting, building, experimenting, and discovering new ideas every day. Teachers guide them with care, tailoring activities to each child's developmental stage and interests.
Preschoolers spend time outside every day, using the school’s green spaces for imaginative play, physical activity, and group games. These moments help young learners build teamwork skills and confidence while developing a love of nature and movement.
The extended school hours, available year-round from 8am to 6pm, with the option of term-time or full-year attendance, are designed to help parents manage their routines without compromise. Families are safe in the knowledge that their children are active and engaged throughout the day.
The head of preschool, Andrea Taylor commented: “At ISA, we understand that every family’s schedule is different. Our extended care programme is giving families flexibility while allowing children to continue to learn and have fun in a familiar, supportive environment. It’s a great way for young students to grow and connect, even after the regular school hours.”
One of the things families notice most about ISA is the strong sense of community across all age groups. As part of the school’s commitment to collaborative learning, older students often spend time with younger classes reading stories, demonstrating projects, or simply lending a hand during shared activities.
This gives younger students role models to look up to, while older students develop leadership skills and empathy. These connections are a natural part of school life and contribute to the sense of belonging ISA creates.
Parents are also supported through regular communication, updates on their child’s progress, and a welcoming, inclusive school community.
"My daughter literally runs into Preschool each morning! She absolutely loves it, especially getting muddy in the garden. It's wonderful to see her so happy and engaged, full of stories every day. It’s clear the teachers care deeply about the students and that the learning is directed by the interests of the children,” commented an ISA parent.
With weekly PE and music lessons, regular visits to the library, and access to the wider school campus the opportunities to explore new interests from an early age are endless. Staff support each child in discovering what they love and encourage them to try new things. Families are also welcomed into the wider school community, with access to facilities such as the library and swimming pool.
One shining example of this came recently when a preschool student, inspired by her love of dressmaking, borrowed a sewing machine from the High School Art teacher Ms. Rea. She designed and stitched her own skirt, then invited her friends to help bring her idea to life by putting on a full fashion show. The group decorated their catwalk, chose their outfits, and performed with lights and music they had selected themselves. The show ended with one beaming young designer declaring: "This preschool made my dream come true!"
Whether families are new to Aberdeen or have lived here for years, ISA offers something different. It’s a school that values individuality, encourages kindness, and helps every child feel seen and supported.
Every child deserves a school where they can feel safe, happy, and excited to learn. For many families, ISA is exactly that.
To find out more about ISA’s preschool programme and extended care, visit www.isa.aberdeen.sch.uk