Small World Christian Kindergarten’s holistic approach to early learning

For nearly 40 years, Small World Christian Kindergarten has been a cherished early learning community, blending faith-based values with a play-based curriculum. Under the leadership of Principal Tess Baguio, the school continues to provide a warm, nurturing environment where young learners thrive academically, socially, and spiritually.

Can you tell us about your career?

My aspirations of becoming an educator began in childhood. I had a joyful childhood with lots of playful experiences growing up with my siblings and many cousins. Although my career initially started in the Sciences, I rediscovered my love for early childhood education as a parent at Small World Christian Kindergarten. This ignited my passion for teaching and led me to study Montessori Education, Early Childhood Education (PGDE, Master’s Degree), and Special Education (PGDE).

What attracted you to Small World, and what sets it apart?

When I first visited Small World as a parent, I felt an immediate connection—it was love at first sight! The school focuses on love, care, and community, values that remain strong as we prepare to celebrate our 40th anniversary.

What sets Small World apart is its holistic approach to learning, supporting children’s cognitive, physical, spiritual, and emotional growth. The school emphasises kindness and confidence through relationships with God and friends. Our unique campus, in a historic building, offers daily outdoor play in our garden and playground, where children explore nature and learn through joyful, hands-on experiences.

What’s a typical day for you? 

My day starts early with emails and reading articles, followed by classroom visits and greeting children as they arrive. It is always good to note how children feel when they arrive, and I always find time to chat with parents or caregivers, making them feel welcome and part of our Small World. I conduct learning walks to ensure all children are supported and engage in various meetings and celebrations with students. Observing teaching practices, interacting with children, and participating in their activities are highlights of my day. Weekly, I engage in reflective practices with teachers to enhance learning.

 

Can you tell us about the curriculum? 

We are proud to be Hong Kong’s first International Early Years Curriculum (IEYC) accredited school. The IEYC uses international best practices, holistic enquiry, and play-based approaches that cover all curriculum areas, including personal, social and emotional development. 

How is the Christian faith integrated?

We welcome children from all backgrounds, fostering growth in wisdom, stature, and socio-emotional development. As such, students are not required to have a Christian background. We aim to help children grow in wisdom (cognitively), in stature (physically), in favour with God (spiritually), and in favour with man (socio-emotionally), just like Jesus Christ did. Journey 2:52 (Biblical Foundation Curriculum) is an integral part of the school curricula, telling stories from the Bible and how God loves each one of us.

Can you talk us through the admissions process? 

Small World has a rolling admissions policy, accepting applications year-round. Children apply to the Junior (K1 equivalent) or Senior (K2/K3) Kindergarten Programme according to birth year, and they can also enrol as soon as they turn two years eight months old under early admissions. Interviews are conducted as informal play sessions to better understand the applicant and their family. Regular school tours and personalised visits help prospective families learn more about our school. 

 

How would you describe the community?

The Small World community is like one big family, with a network of current and alumni families united by their love and appreciation for the school. Each year, we take great pride in honouring our international community through our “Taste of Culture” event, during which we come together to explore diverse cultures and traditions. It’s a great learning opportunity and community-building experience, made even more popular because parents prepare and share lots of delicious food from all over the world!

How is Mandarin integrated into the curriculum?

The Mandarin programme is integrated daily, and a Mandarin-speaking teacher facilitates the class for approximately 30-40 minutes of a three-hour session. Our Storybook Approach gives children a stimulating way to learn a new language through listening, speaking, reading, meaningful play, exchanging conversations, and developing positive relationships. Traditional Chinese characters are used to connect meaningfully with the children’s daily life experiences in Hong Kong.

Where do students typically graduate?  

Nearly all our graduates attend international primary schools in Hong Kong or overseas. Around 30-40% move to ESF primary schools, while the rest participate in respected international schools. We support families in preparing children for their chosen primary schools.

What excites you most about the year ahead?

What excites us most is our community of amazing young learners, who continually delight us with their curiosity and joy in learning with one another! We are privileged to have many of our alumni return as parents of Small World children, and we look forward to welcoming further generations into our school and exploring their world together!

Small World Christian Kindergarten, 10 Borrett Road, Mid-Levels, 2525 0922, smallworld.edu.hk