Issuu

Early Childhood Center

Annual Plan 2026-2027

You are you, I am me, Together, we are ECC!

Welcome to a new school year at ECC

We are a preschool that focuses on

We aim to help our students develop into

promoting and incorporating play-based

by putting ISB’s Core Values of Community,

the development of the whole child by learning in all age groups each day.

We provide a safe, inclusive, warm, and

engaging learning environment for each

child in our care. We follow the Norwegian Framework Plan (NFP) for Kindergartens and the IB's Primary Years Programme

confident and caring citizens of the world Integrity, Respect, and Responsibility into practice throughout the ECC. You can

find more information about our school’s

mission, core values, beliefs and objectives in the ISB Handbook and on our school website.

(PYP).

Your child’s teachers are wonderful sources

This guide is meant to answer some of

encouraged to ask any lingering questions

the most frequently asked questions we encounter from new members of the

community, but it’s a good reminder for

of information and guidance, so please feel you may have to any of us on the ECC team.

our returning families, too. You will find

information about our routines, practices,

and curriculum information, as well as our expectations for positive interactions and

collaboration with and among parents and staff.

Alyssa Dyrdal, ECC Principal

Staff 2026-2027

How to reach the ECC

🗣 Speak to us in person: we value daily

face-to-face interactions. Let us know when you arrive, when you are picking up your child, and please let us know if you are wondering something. Just ask!

Drop-off, pick-up and parking

Communication is the key to successful relationships.

Parking at ISB is complicated as we do not own the lot. We know it’s a hassle. There is a parking structure as you approach the school grounds, but please be prepared to pay to park there. We have a small dropzone near the round-a-bout for quick drop offs and pick ups which is free for the first half hour. You are very likely to get ticketed beyond 30 minutes. Again, this is beyond our control. Please be aware that it can be hard to find a spot at busy times of day, especially around 16:15.

📩 By message via Toddle to the

class teacher for absences, queries or scheduling a meeting.

📞 By phone: for times when you need to

immediately reach the class in the event of an emergent situation (traffic, etc).

⭐ Star Class (Toddlers) Phone: 48 91 92 47

🌛 Moon Class (Toddlers) Phone: 48 92 83 52

🌞 Sun Class

Phone: 48 92 74 48

🌈 Rainbow Class

We kindly ask that you remember our opening hours (07:30 - 16:30) when planning to have a conversation.

Phone: 48 92 94 10

Alyssa Dyrdal, ECC Principal Phone: 55 30 63 34, Email: alyssa.dyrdal@isbergen.no

Questions regarding invoicing/payments can be directed to our Business Coordinator, Sneha, in ISB’s School office. Phone: 55 30 63 31 Email: post@isbergen.no

Any thoughts about the ECC Annual Plan? Let us know by scanning the QR code to fill out our feedback form.

📰 Two places to get weekly updates from ISB and ECC 1.

Toddle: Direct communication with all our families in the ECC. Toddle is an application where you can message staff members, record absences, and follow your child’s learning journey. Through weekly pedagogical documentation, families are invited to communicate, observe, and experience how learning and play at our ECC contribute to their child’s development. For new families, please download and connect to the Toddle Family App. Access to Toddle will be provided when your child starts in the ECC.

Orca Splash: ISB’s weekly newsletter, sent directly to your email inbox every Friday. You can find information on whole school events, holiday camps, and get insight into other areas of the school.

📅 Note the school calendar, and follow

along in the calendar that is provided in this guide. Each month will provide you with important information about school closures, parent participation, dressing for the weather in Bergen, as well as community events and celebrations. 3

The Daily Rhythm in the ECC Opening hours: Core learning time:

07:30 - 16:30 09:00 - 15:00

Morning supervision: Afternoon supervision:

07:30 - 09:00 15:00 - 16:30

The door is unlocked promptly at: and locked for closing promptly at:

Breakfast window: 7:30-8:30 **

**Important! Breakfast ENDS at 8:30. Be here by 8:15 if you plan to have your child eat their breakfast with us in the morning.

7:30-9:00 is a combination of breakfast

(for those that will eat in the ECC) and free play. The day starts in the Star Class, and as more children and staff arrive, play is

extended into the corridor for children in

07:30 16:30

By making this effort, your child will be

The toddlers have their own sleeping area

from the day ahead, join their classmates

by a member of staff at all times. Older

given the possibility to know what to expect in songs and rhymes, and step into their

role as an important member of their class community.

It is a fantastic time for your child to shine

outside, where they are safeguarded

children that need a nap make use of the performing arts room. They are provided

with a mat to sleep on, and need to bring their own bedding & comfort items.

and be welcomed to a new day in the

End of the day

communicate, share news, and participate

snack and collaborative free play while

ECC. The children have opportunities to

in the group. Individual classes follow their own daily and weekly routines.

15:00-16:10 is a combination of afternoon parents come to collect their children.

At 16:10, free play is over, we clean up, and

the Rainbow and Sun classes.

Please note that the Star and Moon Toddler

If your child will be eating breakfast with

and especially outside of the core hours,

At 16:20, the children who have not been

this time are adjusted to the children's

story while we wait for parents to arrive.

us, please help them get seated at the

table with their breakfast box upon arrival. They can enjoy free play when they have finished eating.

Core hours start at 9:00 in your child’s

classroom. Ensure your child is here no

later than 9:00 so they can participate in circle time each morning.

classes collaborate throughout the day,

during supervision time. Activities during needs, age and stage in development. Naptime

Naptime is an important part of the daily routines for the toddlers, as well as for

many of our 3 year olds and older children.

begin our end-of-day routines.

picked up are gathered for a short song or

At this point, it is very important to be

quick about collecting your child and their belongings as we close at 16:30. If you find

that it takes longer than 10 minutes to kindly be out of the building by 16:30, then you will need to come earlier.

At 16:30, we are closed for the day, and our staff’s work day is done. Plan to have collected your child and be out of the building no later than 16:30.

Weekly Timetables

Library time in our Community Cove has a designated space for the ECC students that is safe and cozy with age-appropriate books (in many languages!).

Each class follows a weekly schedule, in addition to the daily routine.

The library routine takes about an hour: the children walk together to the Cove, look at books together, and choose a new book to take home each week. Be sure to bring back the book before next week’s library time in order to take home a new book.

On a weekly basis, each class will visit the library, the school gym, and go on a community walk, in addition to planned activities within the ECC, and indoor/ outdoor play.

Our school gym is a favorite spot for all our ECC students.

The gym is booked for each individual class, so there is plenty of time and space to develop gross motor skills. On a designated day every week, each class will go on a community walk around the neighbourhood. Some examples of places they visit include the forest, the supermarket, nearby playgrounds, and the lake. When we leave the premises, the children all wear reflective vests with our school phone number on it.

From time to time, classes may go on field trips to places related to their current unit of inquiry. Examples of these trips include rides on the light rail train (Bybanen) or the bus to places like the aquarium, Vilvite, a local farm, or the art museum. These activities take place within the core hours. The class teacher will provide you with the weekly timetable once it becomes available.

Settling in Starting at a new preschool can be hard for some children and families, while others make the transition easily. We know that children need to feel safe and comfortable in order to settle in, and they can only do so when they are with adults they know, trust, and have a positive relationship with. We adapt the settling in period to meet the needs of the individual child, knowing that some will settle quickly and others might need some more time. We work in close collaboration with parents and caregivers in order to determine the best possible transition in our ECC. We recommend that all children have a relaxed start to their time in the Early Childhood Center, with shorter days for the first few weeks.

The Early Childhood Center places a strong emphasis on the importance of having a positive learning and play environment that is nurturing, warm, and inclusive. We support all children in our ECC by incorporating preventative bullying strategies into our daily routines, as well as promoting relationship skills through various learning and play activities, both indoors and out. With guidance from attentive staff and close collaboration with parents, children develop skills to promote positive social relationships, focusing on areas of empathy, self-regulation, and social problem-solving, including strategies for making and keeping friends, as well as steps for joining a group activity. 5

Classes & Staffing We adapt our classes according to the ages of children at the beginning of the academic year. For the school year 2026-2027, we have 4 classes: 2 toddler groups and 2 groups of 3-5 year olds. In addition, we have timetabled activities specifically for the oldest children in the ECC - referred to as the KG Club. The Homeroom Teacher is the main contact person regarding your child’s development at school. During the settling in period, familiar assistants will help children transitioning into new preschool classes.

Substitutes There are times when our staff are sick and we need to employ substitutes. The ECC has developed and uses our own private sub list, where we know each substitute well and are intentional about who comes into our environment. All substitutes must provide a police certificate prior to commencing employment. We will do our best to inform you when we use substitutes. We strive not to use new substitutes with the youngest children.

Volunteers Following a thorough interview and police clearance, we welcome volunteers to play, read, and join activities in the ECC.

⭐ Star Class ⭐

Toddlers Children ages 1-2 Class size: maximum 9 children

Volunteers are never left alone with children, and parents will always be informed of their purpose, role, and responsibilities.

Homeroom Teacher: Iryn Teaching assistants: Melissa, Sneha, Debbie

Interns Throughout the year, the ECC welcomes interns from around the world to our school. They are completing parts of their teaching practice and usually stay with us for a period of 3 months.

Toddlers Children ages 1-2 Class size: maximum 6 children.

Prior to starting their internship, interns are required to sign a declaration confirming they have read and agree to the Child Protection and Confidentiality Policy in addition to supplying a full Police Clearance. We have had very positive experiences taking internships from the Erasmus programme, which furthers our interests in providing a diverse and inclusive teaching and learning environment.

🌛 Moon Class 🌛

Homeroom teacher: Torill Teaching assistant: Aynigar

🌞 Sun Class 🌞

Preschool & Kindergarten Children ages 3-5 Class size: maximum 15 children. Homeroom teacher: Roxana Teaching assistant: Rosie*

🌈 Rainbow Class 🌈

Preschool & Kindergarten Children ages 3-5 Class size: maximum 15 children. Homeroom teacher: Yutong Teacher: Elisa Teaching assistants: Ania & Amrita* *Rotating part-time assistants in Sun, Rainbow and KG club: Ania, Amrita, Mameaw

Food and Meals While the ECC does not provide meals, except for special occasions/events, we value shared meal times together. This is a very important part of our day, so we encourage all families to provide healthy meals for their children to enjoy in the company of their classmates. We focus on sitting down while we eat, taking turns to speak and listen, and participating in a peaceful and enjoyable part of our day together. We hope this can be a focus for mealtimes at home, too! Eat a rainbow We know it can be challenging to think of different food items for your child's snacks/ lunches, especially if you have arrived from another country. A good tip is to aim to eat a rainbow! Provide a variety of colours, textures, and flavours for your child as often as possible. If your child needs items sliced before serving, please try to send them ready to eat. A small food thermos is a great way to send a warm lunch with your child. Here is a list of suggestions that may be of use to you. It is by no means complete, but meant to provide inspiration for your family, whatever dietary needs you may have. If you would like guidance on how to have enjoyable meals together at home or would like to share what challenges you might be facing, please keep an open dialogue with the class teacher.

🍎 🍇 🥕 🧀 🥣 🍳 🥪 🍝 🍚 🧇 🥨 🥣 🐟 🍜

Fruits: apple, banana, pear, kiwi, berries, melon, seasonal fruit, grapes Dried fruits: raisins, apricots Vegetables: carrots, cucumbers, tomatoes, bell peppers Cheese: string cheese (skrella mozzarella), Babybel, cheese sticks

Birthday Treats When it is your child's birthday, you are welcome to bring a small age-appropriate treat to share with your child’s class. The idea is that we can mark the special day with a lowthreshold and low-sugar snack. Examples of this could be: a fruit platter, yoghurt, muffins, cheese and crackers, smoothies, vegetables with dip or another favourite healthy snack or meal that your child wants to share. Bringing a snack or treat is completely optional - we don’t expect you to provide anything, but you are welcome to do so if you want. We will always celebrate your child’s birthday with a special birthday crown and song.

Yogurt Egg (e.g., boiled, fried, scrambled, omelette) Sandwiches or wraps with varied toppings (e.g., turkey, ham, chicken, fish, cheese, peanut butter, jam, brunost, leverpostei, egg) Pasta (e.g., with butter, pesto, cheese, spaghetti) Rice (e.g., with vegetables, beans, legumes) Pancakes, waffles Rice cakes, crisp bread (knekkebrød), crackers Porridge/cereal (e.g. oatmeal or rice porridge) Fish cakes, sausages Leftovers from dinner the night before (e.g., pizza, rice/grains, soup, noodles, fish)

Please do not send chocolate or any chocolate items/cakes/sugary snacks in lunch boxes. You can read more about the importance of healthy and nutritious meals for preschooler by scanning the QR code. 7

Clothing and other personal items Outdoor (clothes to play and get dirty in) Everything needs to be labelled!

It is important that children have the

necessary clothing and footwear so that

Summer • Light rain gear (jacket & pants) and lighter rain boots • Fleece jacket/jumper or wool jumper • Sun screen • Hat/Cap • Light footwear

Mid-season • Rain gear (jacket & pants) and rain boots, waterproof mittens • Fleece or wool jacket/jumper • Snow suit, warm boots, lightweight hat or headband that covers the ears, and mittens

they can participate in all activities, both

Winter • Snow suit, warm boots, hat and mittens • Lined rain gear (jacket & pants) or rain gear (jacket & pants) + a full mid-layer set and lined rain boots • Two sets of waterproof gloves/mittens • Buff or high collar • Hat

indoors and outside. Our goal is warm and happy children!

Here is an overview of things that we

expect your child to have on a daily basis at the ECC. Indoor •

• • •

Lunch box with reusable child-friendly containers for food (preferably separate containers for morning snack, lunch and afternoon snack) Water bottle Indoor shoes (velcro fastening recommended) Two full sets of clothes to be kept at ECC

Toddlers (in addition to the items above): • Diapers, wet wipes, diaper cream • Stroller, sleeping bag (warm), blanket • Stuffed animal for naptime if needed Please pay attention to the condition of outdoor clothing at the end of each week, as they might need to be taken home to be cleaned and dried.

Part of ECC’s daily routine is outdoor playtime in all types of weather.

Clothing that needs to be cleaned and dried should be taken home at the end of the day.

Please label all your child’s clothing and

There are several companies that

get lost or misplaced, it will be returned if it

to ask a staff member if you are unsure,

personal items with their name. If things

is labelled properly. This includes clothing, footwear, lunch boxes and water bottles.

specialise in printing such labels. Feel free but a quick search for “navnelapper” will point you in the right direction.

For hygiene purposes, all outdoor clothing and accessories should be taken home for school closures.

Sickness Sickness is a natural part of childhood, and a regular occurrence in an early childhood care setting.

In the ECC, we have good hand washing routines in place. The children wash their hands before and after every meal, and of course after using the toilet. This prevents a lot of sickness among the children, but it certainly does not prevent everything.

Looking after the well-being of our students Individual Needs

Child Protection

Providing for an inclusive and warm learning and play environment also means making sure that individual needs are met. Diversity is an important and valuable part of our ECC environment.

Our students’ welfare and safety are at the heart of our school’s ethos and in everything we do. In line with our policy, we have a dedicated Child Protection Officer. For the school year 2026-2027, ISB’s Child Protection Officer is Paula Blom-Andersen. In collaboration with the Child Protection team (Director, Principals, school nurse and counsellors) she coordinates measures and has an overview of child protection in the school.

In the Early Childhood Center, we do everything we can to ensure that students with individual needs are supported.

When a child or a group of children need extended support and extra resources, we collaborate with, and receive support from Etat for Tilrettelagt Oppvekst (previously known as PPT), and/or other relevant support services (all part of Bergen Kommune), to develop appropriate programmes and ensure high-quality student support.

Parents, school employees, and students are encouraged to talk to the Child Protection Officer or any other member of the Child Protection Team if they have any concerns. In Norway, the child protection agency is called Barnevernet. Barnevernet is a helpful resource that works with and supports families.

💩 and/or 🤮 will be sent home immediately.

When your child gets sick, their general condition determines whether or not they should stay at home.

Children with diarrhoea

As a rule, your child should be fever free and well enough to participate in an entire day of activities, including outdoor playtime.

They can return to the ECC after being

vomiting

symptom free for 2 days and fever free for 1 entire 24 hour period.

The Early Childhood Center follows the Norwegian Institute of Public Health Guidelines for sick children. You can read more information about various illnesses and find advice on whether or not to send your child to preschool on the NIPH website.

Administration of Medicines Ideally, medicine should be administered outside of ECC hours whenever possible. If medication, as prescribed by a doctor, must be given during the ECC opening hours, parents Scan me! must complete the medicine authorization form with an explanation to the homeroom teacher of how it should be administered. Iodine tablets Iodine tablets are stored on the school premises. In the event of a nuclear accident that exposes children to radioactive iodine, it may be important

that the children receive iodine tablets immediately. The ECC will give the children iodine tablets only if the Crisis Committee for Nuclear Preparedness recommends that iodine tablets should be administered. Parents must notify the ECC Principal/ homeroom teacher if you DO NOT want your child to receive an iodine tablet.

Digital Systems Open Apply and Vigilo

GDPR

Open Apply is our student data platform where parents provide all personal data and contact information for their child(ren) across the school.

The ECC has a duty to ensure that personal data is satisfactorily secure to avoid violations of the privacy of employees, children, and parents. Personal data will not be stored any longer than necessary.

Parents will have a login for this platform prior to enrollment when they applied for a place in the ECC. Information on this platform about children’s health and data is confidential. It is important to keep this information updated. There are restrictions on access to the information. Vigilo is the administrative platform used in Bergen Kommune. It is used for preschool applications and placements, and the ECC uses it side-by-side with Open Apply as part of our enrollment process. Student Records Only authorised school personnel and a student’s parents can access a student’s records. Permission will be sought from parents for the transfer of records to another school. Parents who would like access to their child’s records may contact the ECC principal.

Photographs of Children

Screen Time

We require consent from parents to use photographs of children. The consent form is part of the "Student Data Form" on Open Apply, and is completed during the enrollment process.

The ECC follows Norway’s Framework Plan for Kindergartens, which mandates that digital practices in early childhood education encourage creativity, play, and learning. Some of our classrooms have digital tools such as smartboards, which are treated as pedagogical mediums that are used actively alongside staff, with strict national guidelines limiting screen time and requiring that technology never replace interactive, caring adults.

Class Contacts A class contact will be chosen for the school year. Class Contacts are the main link between the parents in the class they represent and the rest of the ISB community. The main responsibility of the class contact is to be a point of contact between the class teacher and the parents. Class contacts contribute to a positive classroom environment for students, families

Our use of these pedagogical tools are limited to dance, music, drawing with a digital medium, or exploring a theme related to our Unit of Inquiry and/or a cultural celebration. Our focus is always to promote early language, literacy, and knowledge through the intentional use of books, songs, and other various pedagogical materials.

and staff, as well as the whole school community. Mobilizing parents to help homeroom teachers set up and coordinate class parties a few times throughout the year can be done by setting up class specific messaging groups. We encourage class contacts to join the PTO to support and represent the ECC for school events. The class contact will take part in the Coordinating Environment Committee as described in the next section.

Parent Participation and Responsibilities We expect our ECC parents to:

Be on time for pick ups. We close at 16.30. Parents are responsible for picking up their child and all their belongings and BE OUT of the building when we close at 16.30. Speak directly to an employee in the ECC during drop off and pick up to let us know that your child is here and/or that you have collected them.

Apply sunscreen in the morning before dropping off on sunny days. We will reapply for the afternoon as necessary.

Read information on Toddle, keeping up to date with the Orca Splash.

Do not bring toys to school - if you bring it for the journey on the way in to school, parents are expected to take it out of the ECC at drop off. Leaving toys in cubbies is really hard for many

ECC Coordinating Environment Committee The ECC CEC consists of parent representatives from the individual classes, ECC staff members and the ECC principal representing the owner/ISB. Parent representatives are elected during the parent information meeting at the beginning of the school year. To ensure comprehensive communication and collaboration, where our families have a voice and a chance to contribute to the ECC learning and play environment, we schedule 2-4 ECC CEC meetings per school year.

Parent particpation benefits our whole community. We value a strong home-school relationship and appreciate your collaboration.

children, and it’s better to take it out of the building again with you. 6.

Let us know, in writing via a toddle message, if your child will be picked up by another parent/adult.

Encourag independence and motor development. They can walk when entering the preschool, and help to put their belongings away.

Regular cubby checks: √ Does your child have everything they need? For example, proper outdoor clothing for the season, spare clothes, diapers and wipes. √ Is everything labeled with their name on it? Unlabeled items will be donated to our box of spare clothes, and then further donated to Fretex. √ Do you want the top of your child’s cubby dusted each week? Follow the Friday tidy routine by putting your child’s basket INSIDE their cubby and placing their shoes on the shelf so the cleaners can do their job.

Parent Information Meeting

Parent-Teacher Conferences

All parents are invited to a parent information meeting at the beginning of a new school year. The meeting provides the opportunity to meet the whole teaching team of the ECC, learn about the curriculum, and receive general information regarding the ECC. Importantly, you will meet your child’s homeroom teacher and other parents in the class. You will receive information about the daily routines, as well as a clarification of expectations. There will be time to answer any questions parents may have. In addition, a class contact will be chosen for the school year.

The parent-teacher conferences play an important role regarding a child's development, strengths, and goals. The parent-teacher conferences are scheduled in October - November and April - May. Parents can also arrange to meet with the homeroom teacher, specialist teachers, or the ECC principal at any point during the school year to discuss their child’s development, progress, or other issues. We always accommodate parent requests for meetings.

Pedagogical Work Planning and Curriculum All educational work is based on the Norwegian Framework Plan for Kindergartens (“rammeplanen”) and the International Baccalaureate’s Primary Years Programme (IB PYP), as well as in accordance with the Norwegian Kindergarten Act (“barnehageloven”).

The ECC provides educational activity which is planned, documented, and assessed with the best interests of the children in mind.

A very brief introduction to the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) The PYP has recognition worldwide as a model of exemplary educational practice. Its philosophy is based on constructivist theories of learning, which state that children construct their learning from what they already know and can do. Students build their learning by finding the answers to questions they inquire into. We put the PYP into practice in our Early Childhood Center by following a “Programme of Inquiry” (POI) each year, which summarizes the themes we set out to explore with the children. On our calendar, in our annual plan, and in our documentation on Toddle, you will notice that we refer to these themes as our “Units of Inquiry” or UOI.

For school year 2026-2027, the UOI are Art Expressions, Marvellous Me, Let's Build and Wild Kingdom. Scan the QR code for a more POI detailed overview to view our units. They are also featured in the calendar section of this document.

The Norwegian Framework Plan for Kindergartens Ensuring that we work in line with the Norwegian Kindergarten Act, the ECC also uses the The NFP Norwegian Framework Plan (NFP) when planning and implementing a high-quality learning and play environment for all students. The NFP highlights the importance of our social mandate, where the plan describes nine key areas to ensure an inclusive, inspiring, and challenging learning and play environment for all students. The teachers work diligently to make connections between the PYP and the NFP, thereby ensuring alignment and progression throughout their time in the ECC and into Lower school. These connections are reflected on Toddle. This document, the annual plan for the ECC, and the programme of inquiry (based on the IB PYP), are working tools for all staff, information for parents, Bergen Kommune, owners and stakeholders.

ECC Staff Collaboration Meetings To ensure that we provide a high quality learning and play programme, we operate within a highly collaborative environment. Classroom teachers will meet once a week to align pedagogical goals and ensure participation in the larger school community. In addition, classroom team meetings are held once a week to address individual classroom needs and plan for the week ahead. In this way, we all work towards common curriculum goals within the NFP and the PYP, while still meeting the needs of the individual child and classroom environment.

School calendar

To give you a little overview •

The ECC follows the ISB calendar. An updated overview of the academic school year, including days when the school is closed, is posted on the school’s website. These dates include holidays, staff in-service days and other important events. It is important to note that school closures also apply to the ECC. The school recognises the need for childcare during these closures and works to provide holiday camps as an alternative.

Celebrations Being an international school, we find that we have lots to celebrate throughout the year. For your convenience, we have tried to map out these celebrations. For many of the celebrations, we rely on parent volunteers in order to make it extra special. Some events are tied closely to the PTO at ISB, while others are specifically for the ECC children only. You will always receive information about the event and what help we need closer to the event.

•

Welcome Back BBQ: A PTO event where the entire school community comes together to share a meal at the beginning of the school year. PTO arranges the parent volunteers to help organize, prepare, and serve food. UN Day: Children are encouraged to wear their national costume and bring their flag to school. There is a whole school parade that all children take part in. Parents are invited to watch (and wear your national costume if you want as well!).

• Diwali: The ECC staff sorts out the arrangements for this celebration, but if you would like to contribute, we can always use hands to help decorate! •

Halloween: The PTO puts on events across the school. In the ECC, we would need some parent volunteers to help put up and take down decorations.

•

Thanksgiving: This is a big production and we ask for helpers to decorate, help cook, and clean up. Any time you have to give is helpful!

•

Santa Lucia / Christmas Party: Before we break up for the Christmas holiday, the ECC has a party where all parents are invited to come in. The children will sing and we have a chance to mingle. We might need volunteers to help bake lussekatter (saffron buns for Santa Lucia), or help us set up/ clean up around the party. The PTO has a big agenda for this time of year, needing volunteers for whole school decorations and the Christmas Craft Fair.

• Teacher Appreciation Day: Arranged by the PTO, parents are often asked to bake or cook a dish to drop off for a teacher lunch. •

•

17th of May: For the celebration in the ECC, we have a pancake party outside with lots of games. We might ask for parents to help us slice up fruit to serve. ISB usually participates in the big parade in town on the 17th. All families are invited to join and it’s a lovely way to see the city! Kindergarten Graduation and Summer Party: As the end of school year approaches, we invite all parents in

for a party. Plan to bring some food to share, and spend time mingling with other parents in the ECC. Kindergarten parents are invited into a special ceremony to celebrate the transition to grade 1. We try to combine these events. •

Various holidays like Chinese/Lunar New Year, Eid, Holi, and Sami day are usually marked with an assembly in the ECC, and we typically do not need help. That being said, we would love to hear your ideas to make these celebrations even better. Also, if there is a celebration that is important to you - tell us about it! We can incorporate it into our plans for the ECC!

School Calendar

August Welcome to all new and returning students! First day of the School Year 2026-2027 is Monday, August 17th. We are open 7:30 16:30 for returning families, but please be mindful of your child's potential need for a new settling-in period with shorter days at the beginning of a new school year. New families We recommend shorter days in the beginning. Information will be coming from your child’s class teacher via email, and you will be invited to our online communication platform, Toddle, soon.

Parent responsibilities √

Let the staff know when you drop off and pick up your child(ren)

√

Respect the ECC opening and closing hours. The ECC closes at 16:30 and by then all children and parents must be out of the ECC.

√

Deliver the children before circle time at 9:00. It can be difficult for children to settle in for the day’s activities and playtime when arriving later.

√

Apply sunscreen at home in the morning. We will reapply after lunch.

√

Respect our “no toys from home” rule.

√

Message the ECC if your child is staying home sick, or there is a variation in their routine (e.g., will be picked up earlier or by someone other than the parents).

Clothing and Personal Belongings To help your child enjoy a comfortable and active day at ECC, please make sure they have the clothing they need, including extra changes of clothes, and appropriate outerwear and footwear for all types of weather. Regularly check that your child’s clothes and shoes still fit, particularly as the seasons change. Take home any wet or dirty clothes for washing.

Let’s talk about the importance of play-based learning! Play is the most authentic way for children to sort out and express their thoughts, feelings, and creativity within the context of their cultural background. In the ECC, we make space for play. Closely tied to Chapter 3 of the Norwegian Framework Plan, “kindergartens shall meet the children’s need for play.” The NFP stipulates that the inherent value of play shall be acknowledged as a key focus in a preschool, and the ECC ensures that we are intentional in our planning for play. By promoting an inclusive environment where all children can participate in and experience the joy of playing, we lay the foundation for play and positive social interactions.

How we express ourselves An inquiry into the ways in which we discover and express ideas, feelings, nature, culture, beliefs and values; the ways in which we reflect on, extend and enjoy our creativity; our appreciation of the aesthetic.

Art Expressions Subject focus: arts, science, PSPE Key concepts: form, perspective, reflection Central idea: Art can be created and experienced in different ways. An inquiry into: • Art from around the world • Ways to make art • How art affects people

Clothes needed now: We kindly ask that all clothing and personal items are clearly labeled with your child’s first and last name. Labeled items are much easier to return to their owners. Unlabeled clothing will be placed in the lost-and-found box in the wardrobe area, and any unclaimed items will eventually be donated to charity. Clothing kept at ECC should be practical and suitable for an active day filled with play, exploration, and outdoor activities.

• • • •

Light middle layer Light rain clothes Lightweight rain boots Light hat

•

2 complete changes of clothes appropriate for the season Sunscreen Sun hat

• •

Message the ECC when your child: • • • •

is sick has a planned absence, is coming in later than 9:00, is being picked up by someone other than the parents.

August 2026

Welcome to a new year in the Early Childhood Center!

Monday

Week

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

Parent info session 12:30 - 14:00

First day of school.

We expect all new and returning families to attend the parent info session. This is a very important start to the new school year and establishes good home-school communication. Looking forward to seeing you there!

September Parents as partners Good communication between parents and staff is essential for successful cooperation, and we see parents as partners. We expect to build mutual trust, respect, safety, and well-being in our partnership with parents, where we share the common goals of promoting development and creating joy in daily routines. We value daily contact at drop-off and pick-up. These brief moments allow us to share information that helps ensure your child’s well-being. We hope you value daily contact as well, and ask that you plan your arrival and departure within our opening and closing hours, and respect that when we close at 16:30, we are no longer available to give feedback on your child’s day. There are two parent–teacher conferences scheduled each school year, and we are of course happy to arrange additional meetings if needed. You will regularly get updates on Toddle about the learning experiences taking place in the classroom, in addition to a weekly summary sent out each Friday. In addition, you will receive “The Orca Splash,” the ISB newsletter, every Friday afternoon. It’s your responsibility to read the information shared with you.

Kindergarten Act Chapter II, §4: “To ensure cooperation with the children's homes, each kindergarten shall have a parents' council and a cooperation committee.” The ECC Coordinating Environment Committee (CEC) acts as an advisory and cooperative body that helps strengthen communication and collaboration between parents and the ECC. It consists of parents/guardians and ECC staff, with equal representation from both groups. Parents and guardians form the parent council, which works to promote shared interests and to foster a strong partnership between families and the ECC. This collaboration enhances a positive learning environment. During the parent information session, each class elects its parent representative, known as the “class contact.” If there is something regarding operations within the ECC, you are welcome to speak directly with the staff or contact the class contact, who will then bring it to the CEC meeting. There are two CEC meetings held during the school year. The first in September / October and the second in March. Additional meetings can be scheduled upon request.

Clothes needed now: • • • • • •

Light fleece set Rain clothes Rain boots Rain gloves Light hat 2 complete changes of clothes appropriate for the season

Norwegian Framework Plan Chapter 5: The kindergarten shall facilitate cooperation and good dialogue with the parents. Cooperation with the parents shall take place both at an individual level, with the parents of each child, and at a group level through the parents’ council and the coordinating committee.

Kindergarten Act §1: The preschool will, in cooperation and understanding with the home, meet the child’s need for care and play, and promote learning and education as a basis for all-round development.

“The greatest gifts we can give our children are the roots of responsibility and the wings of independence” - Maria Montessori

September 2026 Monday

Week

Tuesday 1

Wednesday 2

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

CEC meeting 14:30.

Staff in-service day. No school.

Deadline for sign up for Autumn Camp.

Join us for the Welcome Back BBQ! This is a fun community event where the entire school gets together to share a meal. Detailed information will come from the PTO in the Orca Splash closer to the date.

October Documentation, reflection and assessment Documentation of pedagogical work

carried out by the staff demonstrates how personnel work to fulfill the requirements

set forth by the Kindergarten Act and The Norwegian Framework Plan (Rammeplan 2017).

We plan for and document learning

experiences, processes and celebrations we have together with the students. We

make visible the connection between our plans and our actual actions, as seen

in your child’s portfolio on Toddle. When

the children leave the ECC, parents have the opportunity to download their child’s portfolio.

Part of our pedagogical work includes tying our Units of Inquiry to the working methods and learning areas as defined in Chapters 8 & 9 of the Norwegian Framework Plan. This is reflected in practice on Toddle.

Reflection is a main focus in the ECC, and

we use the UDIR survey, appraisal meetings, parent conferences, and CEC meetings

as important tools for this process. We are

continuously adapting in order to deliver a high quality learning environment.

Who We Are Parent teacher conferences Parent conferences start this month.

You will be called in for a meeting where we discuss your child’s development. Every conference is guided by our

conference form, where the teacher

An inquiry into the nature of the self; beliefs and values; personal, physical, mental, social and spiritual health; human relationships including families, friends, communities, and cultures; rights and responsibilities; what it means to be human.

gathers observations about your child’s development in all areas. You should

address anything YOU find important, and we will, too!

The schedule for parent teacher

conferences will be given through Toddle.

Marvellous Me Subject focus: social studies, science, PSPE

We will always make time for additional

Key concepts: form, function, connection.

Occasionally, we might ask if a student

Central idea: Each of us is unique and special.

meetings if they are needed.

teacher can join and/or participate in

the conference alongside the homeroom teacher. As part of our partnership with

Erasmus+, we often have student teachers from around the world doing internships

with us. Practical learning experiences are

An inquiry into: • My likes and dislikes • How I take care of myself • My culture and who I am • How we get along with each other

an important part of their internship, and our interns gain valuable experience by

being included and guided through the

process with the homeroom teacher. We

will only include the intern in the meeting if we have consent from the parents.

Clothes needed now: • • • • • •

Light fleece set Rain clothes (lined for cold days) Rain boots Rain gloves Light hat 2 complete changes of clothes appropriate for the season

October 2026

Parent Teacher Conferences will be scheduled and ongoing throughout the month of October.

Monday

Week

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Sunday

→

Autumn Holiday Week. No school. Possible Holiday Camp.

Saturday

UN Day Celebration.

Halloween Dress-up Day.

There are several important community events happening in October that are celebrated during the school day. See page 13 for more details about these celebrations. Parent volunteers are much appreciated and makes a difference. 19

November

basis, and in the ECC, we support language development through stories, songs, circle time opportunities, and tuned-in adults

during play and learning. In addition, it’s

Pedagogical Practices Social Emtional Learning

We have a big focus on social-emotional learning (SEL) in the ECC, and use a

combination of resources to deliver

a balanced approach to social and

emotional development. We regularly use

the ICDP (International Child Development Programme), Circle of Security, and

Kimochis to inspire teaching and learning throughout the school year.

Language & Literacy Developement

Children learn a language by speaking and listening first. Read aloud! Sing together! Put words to everything your child is

experiencing and give your child the gift of your language.

Language and literacy is more than reading and writing.

The ability to use language is crucial for

how children can communicate with adults and other children, how they can describe

experiences, express their needs and ideas, as well as discuss and reflect together with others.

Language is crucial for learning and developing friendships.

Good speech development is important

for children both on a short and long term

foundational for participating in a modern

Clothes needed now

democracy and in a society based on knowledge and education.

Language development is both oral and written - we talk and listen, we read and

write. Foundational development happens now, in preschool.

•

Extra warm middle layer: fleece or wool

•

Waterproof snow suit

•

Warm rain clothes (e.g., fleece-lined)

•

Lined rain boots

•

Water proof winter shoes

•

2 pairs of warm mittens

•

Rain gloves

•

Snow gloves

•

Warm winter hat

•

Buff

•

2 complete changes of clothes appropriate for the season

The staff in the ECC are an incredible

resource when it comes to languages. Almost all staff are billingual, and the

majority are fluent in Norwegian if it is not their mother tongue.

We use the Norwegian language in many different settings. It can be used to help children settle in, or transition to a local

Norwegian school when moving on to first grade.

While we predominantly use English in the

ECC, we adjust to the needs of the children, and encourage use of their mother tongue during the day. For example, if a child

speaks Norwegian to us, we will respond in Norwegian and then translate to English. Day to Day Learning Outcomes

Day-to day learning outcomes are

planned for and documented on Toddle. They are chosen from the IB PYP and the

Norwegian Framework Plan. We teach and

learn through our Units of Inquiry, which are closely tied to the framework plan.

We encourage all families to speak their mother tongue to their children. Many families feel compelled to start speaking English at home once their child starts at the ECC, but we actually recommend that you give your child the gift of your mother tongue. Be a resource of your language for your child, and we will take care of the English while they are in the ECC.

We want all children to be warm, dry and happy for outdoor play. Your child needs you to ensure that their clothes are whole and dry at the end of each day. Make this part of your pick-up routine. Take wet and dirty clothes home as needed.

November 2026

Parent-Teacher conferences continue.

Monday

Week

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday 1

Sunday

Diwali celebration.

Planning day. School closed for students.

Deadline to sign up for January holiday camp.

Thanksgiving lunch.

30 Are you able to volunteer for the Thanksgiving Lunch? We need helping hands to decorate, set the tables, coordinate cooking, and clean up. Upper school likes to help out, too, so any time you have to give (even for just an hour!) is wonderful. 21

December As we approach the darkest day of the year, we light up the dark with warm and cozy routines in the ECC. There is a lot to celebrate in December, and a lot to look forward to. We find that many families use this time to travel to different corners of the world, and as the first half of the school year winds down, we like to invite parents in to celebrate with us. Some time before the Christmas Break, we will invite all ECC parents in to enjoy some Norwegian Pepperkaker, mingle with other parents and teachers, and possibly hear a song or two that the children have learned.

In addition, we might make “lussekatter,” or saffron buns, to share with parents in celebration of Santa Lucia. Saint Lucy’s Day (“Santa Lucia”) is an old Scandinavian tradition celebrating light in the darkness, and the hope that it symbolizes.

Christmas decorations At this time of year you might notice our school reception area is completely decorated for the Christmas season. PTO volunteers spend a day decorating the school and the ECC.

We try to combine events, so the party will be close to December 13th for Santa Lucia. Details of this event will be communicated to parents via the class teacher and/class contacts. We hope you are able to set off an hour for this special event!

In our reception area, we have something called “The Lonely Christmas Tree” - a nice way we can help the greater community by giving gifts to those in need. More information can be found in the school newsletter. ISB also makes its own gingerbread city each year. Each class contributes a gingerbread house, but you’re welcome to contribute one that your family makes as well!

Santa Lucia Når mørket er som mørkest Og ingen klokke slår Da virker det som natten Har vart i hundre år Når alt er stille ute Og solen har gått ned Da kommer vi langs veien I lyset vi har med Santa Lucia Santa Lucia Når natten er sort Så tenner vi lys Og drar mørket bort Når alle stjerner lyser Og himmelen er sort Og ingen kan bli vant til At dagen går så fort Da kommer vi og synger Med glad og vennlig røst Et lys er tent i natten Og gir deg håp og trøst Santa Lucia Santa Lucia Når natten er sort Så tenner vi lys Og drar mørket bort Santa Lucia Santa Lucia Når natten er sort Så tenner vi lys Og drar mørket bort

December 2026 Monday

Week

Tuesday

Save the date for the ECC Christmas Party!

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

Santa Lucia morning. ECC Christmas Party at 14:00.

→ 28

Last day of school. Noon dismissal.

Christmas holiday. School closed.

→ 29

→

→ 30

→

→ 26

→ 31

→ The ECC Christmas Party programme is a mix and mingle event! The children bake and practice a few Christmas songs to sing for parents, so you can look forward to a cozy and cute way to ring in the season. Bring your camera! 23

January Happy New Year and welcome back!

As we settle in to our daily routines, here are some important things to remember:

•

Breakfast window: 7:30-8:30 **

Parent responsibilities √

Let the staff know when you drop off and pick up your child(ren)

√

Respect the ECC opening and closing hours. The ECC closes at 16:30 and by then all children and parents must be out of the ECC.

√

Deliver the children before circle time at 9:00. It can be difficult for children to settle in for the day’s activities and playtime when arriving later.

√

Respect our “no toys from home” rule.

√

Message the ECC if your child is staying home sick, or there is a variation in their routine (e.g., will be picked up earlier or by someone other than the parents).

Important! Breakfast ENDS at 8:30. Be here by 8:15 if you plan to have your

child eat their breakfast with us in the morning. •

Ensure your child has the clothes

Clothes needed now: Extra warm middle layer: fleece or wool

•

Waterproof snow suit

Wild Kingdom

•

Warm rain clothes (e.g., fleece-lined)

Subject focus: science

•

Lined rain boots

•

Water proof winter shoes

they need for a full day in preschool,

•

2 pairs of warm mittens

for everyone to settle in to the daily

labelled with their name on it.

•

Rain gloves

•

Snow gloves

•

Warm winter hat

•

Buff

•

2 complete changes of clothes appropriate for the season

start at 9:00. This makes it easier

Notify us about illness and/or absence.

appropriate for the season, and

An inquiry into rights and responsibilities in the struggle to share finite resources with other people and with other living things; communities and the relationships within and between them; access to equal opportunities; peace and conflict resolution.

•

Drop off your child before core hours

routine. •

√

Sharing the Planet

Key concepts: form, change, causation. Central idea: Animals develop adaptations to live in different environments. An inquiry into: • Animal habitats • Characteristics and behaviours of animals within their habitats • How people interact with animal habitats

January 2027

Happy New Year!

Monday

Week

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday 1

Saturday

Sunday

Christmas Holiday. School closed.

→

First day back for students. Full day.

The UDIR Parent Survey goes out this month to all preschools in Norway. All parents will recieve a text message and email prompting you to respond. We value your feedback and strive to hear back from 100% of our families through this survey.

February Risky Play

•

set boundaries for their own bodies and respect the limits of others

What does risky play look like in the ECC? Here are a few examples we identified

from our own playground and discussed at

In a world where many children are stuck

length:

and moving their bodies, one thing

Climbing on top of the playhouse.

behind a screen rather than playing

we addressed during our most recent

planning days was “risky play” and what that looks like in the ECC.

Our rule: you can be up on top if

you can get up there by yourself. We won’t lift you up, you have to climb.

Our reasoning: if you can climb up,

What is risky play? How do we support it?

you can climb down. This promotes

development, especially in the early

body control.

First of all, risky play is crucial to a child’s years! When you read “risky play,” your

Our rule: there has to be consent

and ideally a soft landing zone (e.g.,

mattresses in the gross motor room). Our reasoning: it’s not aggressive!

It’s controlled and fun, and genuine

and test out risky play, we are taking

they are not developmentally ready

away their learning opportunities. The

to be up there.

Rolling down the hill.

consequences, body boundaries of self and others, confidence.

experiences in risky play, our choice of vocabulary around these experiences, try this clarifying question:

Are you crying because you are hurt, or because you are scared?

movement, food, and health.

Our rule: teachers have to be

(This is my favorite question, and children

childhood educators looking after the

Our reasoning: we need to see what

your assessment of the situation before

Part of our job in the ECC, as early

present.

WHOLE child, as outlined in the framework

happens, and ensure a barrier to the

•

experience well-being, joy, and

of the vestibular sense (balance &

physical activities, indoors and out, all

and confidence, as well as joy and

trees. This promotes development

plan, is to help the children to:

•

• •

achievement through a variety of

spatial awareness), body boundaries

year round

freedom of movement.

continue to develop their motor

What we know: the hill is steep,

skills, body control, coordination, and

and teachers will ensure a barrier

evaluate and master risky play through

place unless a teacher is present.

feel confident in their own bodies, gain

with the children during circle time,

explore their own feelings

classes.

dangerous play. It is our job to assess the risks and weigh up the learning opportunities.

bit of room to explore what their own

This promotes: choices and

words is key. If you want to help build

not. But by not “allowing” children to explore

There is a fine line between risky play and

angry.

What we know: it is not too high,

they can’t get up there on their own,

background, and past experiences.

If we want our children to be happy and

ends if someone gets hurt, sad, or 3.

parents’ personality, temperament, cultural

aggression is not part of it. The play

When we talk to children about their

immediate reaction might be: absolutely

topic in Chapter 9: Learning Areas - Body,

housing with INTENT TO PLAY).

safety, mastery, confidence, and

there is a fall zone with wood chips. If

Norwegian Framework Plan includes the

Rough and tumble play (wrestling/rough

confident, we have to give them a little

boundaries are, rather than having them inherit ours.

What I see when I observe risky play

is determination, pride, and the joy of

mastery. Giving your child the space and

support to experience those feelings helps them figure out who they are, how they

are motivated, and when they might need to ask for help. Risky play builds resilience,

tolerance, and life skills on so many levels!

need to have a chance to answer WITHOUT their own!) Sometimes children fall or get

Mother Tongue Day

because they feel like they lost control in

We love to hear stories told in other languages!

knocked over, and that can be scary (often the moment)! But let’s help them recognize and put words to their feelings by asking questions, letting them think, and then arriving at their own conclusion.

physical capabilities

to the trees. The activity can’t take

Risky play is important. It’s also personal.

physical challenges

This rule is made in collaboration

play has A LOT to do with their personality

a positive view of themselves and

particularly with the sun and rainbow

A child’s motivation behind their own risky and temperament, and whether or not

they have the freedom to explore that part of themselves often comes down to the

Please let us know if you are interested in volunteering to read or tell a story in your child’s class. Ideally, we ask that you have some sort of visual support (a book with pictures, props, puppets, etc) so that even if we can’t understand the language, we can follow along.

February 2027 Monday

Week

Enjoy the winter season

Tuesday 2

Wednesday 3

Thursday 4

Deadline for signing up for Winter Camp.

Friday 5

Saturday

Sunday

Sami Day assembly.

Lunar New Year celebration.

Ramadan assembly.

International Mother Tongue Day.

March 100 languages NO WAY. THE HUNDRED IS THERE The child is made of one hundred.

They tell the child:

a hundred languages

to do without head

The child has

a hundred hands

a hundred thoughts

a hundred ways of thinking of playing, of speaking.

to think without hands to listen and not to speak

to understand without joy to love and to marvel

only at Easter and Christmas.

A hundred.

They tell the child:

Always a hundred

and of the hundred

ways of listening

of marveling of loving

to discover the world already there they steal ninety-nine.

a hundred joys

They tell the child:

a hundred worlds

reality and fantasy

for singing and understanding to discover

a hundred worlds to invent

a hundred worlds to dream.

that work and play

science and imagination sky and earth

reason and dream are things

that do not belong together.

The child has

And thus they tell the child

(and a hundred hundred hundred more)

The child says:

a hundred languages

but they steal ninety-nine.

The school and the culture

separate the head from the body.

that the hundred is not there. No way. The hundred is there. Loris Malaguzzi

(translated by Lella Gandini)

March 2027 Monday

Week

1 Winter Holiday Week. School closed.

Parent-Teacher Conferences start

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

→

Saturday

Sunday

→

Eid al-Fitr assembly.

Holi celebration. Easter egg hunt.

Easter Holiday Week. School closed.

→

Planning day. School closed for students.

→

April

Earth Day Parent-Teacher Conferences

The second opportunity for parent

Spring is a fun time in the ECC as we tend to take more activities outdoors. While the sun might shine more at this time of year, mother nature likes to play tricks on us! Prepare for anything and everything when filling your child’s cubby. Sun, rain, and snow protection are equally important in the spring in Bergen.

conferences takes place now.

The format is the same as October, but there can always be new things to discuss.

These should be in the cubby now: - Rainwear

- Winter suit / jacket / pants

How we organise ourselves An inquiry into the interconnectedness of human-made systems and communities; the structure and function of organisations; societal decision-making; economic activities and their impact on humankind and the environment..

- Hat

- Mittens

- Extra socks

- Extra shoes

- Extra sweater

- Change of clothes

On this day, the entire school goes off

schedule to work on special projects that help our planet!

Field Trips

The ECC goes on weekly community walks throughout the entire school year. At this Let's Build

point in the year, however, once routines

are established and children have matured

Subject focus: maths, science, social studies

in their class, we try to take trips that are

Key concepts: form, function.

or other parts of Bergen to explore new

Central idea: People construct things in different ways and for different reasons. An inquiry into: • How communities are constructed • Types of construction materials • Why people create and build

a bit farther away from campus. We take public transportation and go into town places.

When we are out and about, the ratio of

staff to children is higher, and sometimes

we ask for parent volunteers to accompany us. The children wear reflective vests with

our ECC phone number on it, and we have carefully planned and coordinated our

outing so the best interests of the children and staff are met.

Play Play has a central place in the ECC. Its intrinsic value is recognized as a source of joy, humor, and excitement. It gives children the opportunity to process experiences, express themselves, and develop friendships. We facilitate play by giving children pleny of opportunities to play together or alone, through either spontaneous or planned situations that are adapted to a child’s age and stage. This is rooted in the Norwegian Framework Plan, the IB PYP, and is considered best practice in child development. The future of social competence and community lies in the core of play and is something we promote and encourage in our daily and weekly routines.

April 2027 Monday

Week

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday 1

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

First day back for students.

Earth Day.

May

Celebrating May 17th in the ECC

There are a lot of public holidays in May, so be sure to check the calendar for closures.

Transition to Grade 1

Norway’s national day takes place on May 17th. The day is a public holiday, which means that schools, shops and offices are closed. Every year there is a large parade throughout Bergen’s city centre consisting of different groups walking together.

In May we start the transition meetings for children moving on to Grade 1. For children continuing on to Grade 1 at ISB, we have the luxury of ensuring a good transition into school. By introducing the children to the Grade 1 teacher and teaching assistant in the spring, they feel comfortable and confident when the school year begins. The children really look forward to this and feel very proud of their upcoming transition. Children that will be moving on to other schools will work in collaboration with the class teacher, the ECC Principal, and the other school.

Check for ticks A gentle reminder that May is the beginning of “tick season.” With our direct access to the little forest on our playground, it’s a good idea to check children for ticks from time to time.

Close to the 17th, we celebrate Norway’s national day in the ECC with games and songs. There will be ice cream and pancakes on the menu, and outdoor activities. The older children join in a parade that visits the care home in the area, while the rest of the ECC stays to play on the playground.

Hurrah! May 17th is a day filled with joy and child-centred activities.

ISB has participated in this event for decades and we would love for as many of our ISB families to join us in celebrating by meeting up in town and walking together. ISB traditionally meets in Marken, but pay attention to the Orca Splash for more detailed and relevant information. There are several hundreds of people scheduled to meet up in this area, in addition to everyone coming to see the parade, so it will be busy. Please remember that parents are responsible for their own children and that teachers are attending on a voluntary basis. For this day, formal attire is expected when walking as part of the parade. You may wish to wear an outfit that represents a country or culture you feel represents you. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes as we will be walking through town.

May 2027

Hipp Hipp Hurrah!

Monday

Week

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday 1

Sunday 2

Labour Day Holiday. School closed.

Ascension Day Holiday. School closed.

→

🇳🇴

Whitsun holiday. School closed.

Deadline for signing up for Summer Camps.

June

As the school year winds down, we have a lot to celebrate!

The kindergarten students will have

a graduation party to celebrate their transition to Grade 1.

The entire ECC celebrates the end of the school year with a summer party. The

summer party in kindergarten is a lovely

tradition and all parents and families are

invited. We ask parents to bring some food to share. It’s a wonderful time to be outside together, enjoying food and each other’s company before the end of the school year. We hope to see you there!

Thanks for a fun school year together and we wish you a really great summer!

We look forward to seeing you again! To those who are leaving us to start school – thank you so much for all the joy and

quality time spent together! Good luck!!

Clothes needed now: • • • •

Light middle layer Light rain clothes Lightweight rain boots Light hat

•

2 complete changes of clothes appropriate for the season Sunscreen Sun hat

• •

Have a really great summer, everyone!

June 2027 Monday

Week

That's a wrap!

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

KG Graduation. Summer Party at 14:00

17 Last day of school. Noon dismissal.

Edited by: Eline Blom Dubruille

Sandslihaugen 36, 5254 Sandsli +47 452 55 104 www.isbergen.no