EARLY YEARS (Ages 3 – 5)

We believe in learning through play because it fosters cognitive, social, and emotional development in children. Through play, children explore their environment, develop problem-solving skills, and enhance their creativity and imagination. It also encourages social interaction, helping them build communication skills and understand teamwork. Additionally, play-based learning supports physical development by improving fine and gross motor skills, making it a holistic approach to early childhood education.

LEARNING THROUGH PLAY

We design learning spaces to serve as the third teacher in early childhood education. We purposefully create environments and curate resources that stimulate curiosity, creativity, and exploration, supporting cognitive and social growth. Our thoughtfully arranged spaces provide a safe and engaging atmosphere, encouraging both independent and collaborative learning, which enhances the overall educational experience.

THE ENVIRONMENT AS THE THIRD TEACHER

We embrace a learning continuum for early childhood, honoring each child’s unique journey. We provide the necessary support and structure to help all students reach their developmental milestones by ensuring personalized attention and fostering growth in a nurturing environment.

LEARNING CONTINUUM

Play-based learning is an approach supported by extensive research; it leverages children’s natural curiosity and engagement in play to develop critical cognitive, social, and emotional skills.

PLAY BASED LEARNING

Reggio-inspired Education emphasizes child-led exploration and inquiry-based learning, fostering critical thinking and creativity, as a research-based approach providing a positive impact on child development.

REGGIO-INSPIRED EDUCATION

Forest Learning immerses children in nature, promoting holistic development through hands-on experiences that enhance confidence, resilience, and environmental stewardship. This approach is supported by research on its benefits for physical and mental well-being.

FOREST LEARNING

A SAFE ENVIRONMENT

We have two campuses that provide a safe, and caring environment to promote learning and well-being. These campuses reflect our commitment to sustainability and offer students a healthy and inspiring atmosphere. Our Hisar campus is dedicated to students ages 3 to 8, and our Marmara main campus serves our students ages 3 to 18.

The smaller Hisar Campus (Early Years – Grade 3) is part of the school’s original grounds from its inception in 1911.

HISAR CAMPUS

The main, purpose-built Marmara campus (Early Years-Grade 12) is 25 miles west of the city center amid rolling hills, overlooking a large lake.

MARMARA CAMPUS

TESTIMONIALS

IICS is a blessing for my children!

Iryna EgorovEarly Years Parent

We love the school, so much nature around us!

Sukran GaziogluEarly Years Parent

She is super excited to come to school everyday because they learn different things!

Gaia FerrettiEarly Years Parent

We are accredited by NEASC & CIS and follow their rigorous standards to ensure educational excellence, maintain high-quality programs, and promote continuous improvement. This commitment provides assurance to families that our school meets high quality benchmarks, fostering a superior learning environment for our students.

We use the PYP (Primary Years Program) framework because it promotes inquiry-based learning, critical thinking, and a global perspective. It aligns with our commitment to educational excellence and helps create a dynamic and engaging learning environment.

Admissions

Moving to a new school and a new country is a major change. Our Director of Admissions at Istanbul International Community School, Zeliha Öztürk, is happy to answer your questions about IICS, about living in Istanbul, relocation, or any of your schooling concerns. Email: admissions@iics.k12.tr

APPLY HERE