A new address dedicated to early childhood has opened its doors. I had the chance to discover the nursery school of the British School of Monaco, now open to children aged 3 to 5. A space designed as an educational cocoon, where British rigour and genuine care come together in harmony.
Located at L’Escurial, 31 avenue Hector Otto, this English nursery school offers teaching entirely in English, complemented by 30 minutes of French every day. The programme is based on the British Curriculum, Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), which favours learning through play, exploration and dialogue, while laying solid foundations for the rest of the school journey.
From the entrance, you’re welcomed by a teddy bear in the colours of the Principality, “Welcome to the British School of Monaco – Early Years”. Every wall tells a story through drawings that immerse you in nature and its animals. You can feel the gentleness of the place. Spread over 250 sqm, the space was designed on a human scale: two large classrooms of 45 sqm welcoming a maximum of 16 children, made up of creative, reading and learning areas, a multi-purpose room used notably for naptime and meals, complemented by an outdoor area with two playgrounds.
The school pays particular attention to the early years, seen as foundational. Independence, self-confidence, respect for others and curiosity guide the children’s daily life, in a warm and serene atmosphere. The day is organised around varied activities: fine motor skills, reading, playful mathematics, stories in English and French, free play and quiet time. Meals and naptime (in custom-made solid wood beds) also help children learn independence and how to live together.
Behind the project, Luke Sullivan and Olena Orykhodko share the ambition of offering Monaco a demanding yet human British education from the youngest age.
I’m 100% won over by this English nursery school, which combines a premium setting, structured pedagogy and genuine attention to children’s wellbeing. A precious address for a fulfilling first school experience.
