Reggio Emilia Approach

At Namao School, our young classrooms have become inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach to learning. Our classrooms are alive with a wide variety of learning spaces, unique lighting, and interesting centers for exploration. Our children are challenged to pursue their own learning and can move through curriculum expectations quickly as their interest leads them.

The Reggio Emilia Approach is a philosophy for preschool and primary education. Developed in Italy, its goal is to develop a lifelong passion for learning and exploration.

Child-Centred Philosophy

  • The focus is on children’s natural development and close connection to their environment 
  • Children are viewed as capable, creative, curious and full of potential 
  • They are active participants in education 

Play and Projects

  • Instruction is delivered largely through play and projects 
  • Projects are in-depth studies of concepts, ideas and interests that come from the children 
  • Projects build valuable skills related to collaboration, research, discussion, negotiation, problem solving and evaluation 

Student-Led Curriculum

  • Curriculum is flexible and builds upon the students’ interests 
  • Topics for study arise from student ideas and observations, classroom discussions, community and family events, as well as from popular themes such as dinosaurs, nature, construction sites, etc. 

Joyful Classrooms

  • Physical space is an important consideration in the Reggio Emilia Approach 
  • Classrooms are open, pleasant spaces full of natural light 
  • They are designed to create a feeling of playfulness and joy 

Guiding Principles

  • Children must have some control over the direction of their learning 
  • Children must have opportunities to learrn through touching, moving, listening and observing 
  • Children must be allowed to explore their relationship with other children and the world around them
  • Children must have endless ways and opportunities to express themselves