Curiosity, creativity and confidence come together as Bali Island School’s youngest learners take on science through play, proving that big ideas often begin with small hands.
At Bali Island School, learning begins with curiosity. As the best and first IB Continuum school in Bali, the school’s Early Years programme, which covers Preschool to Grade 1, embraces a holistic approach that supports children’s cognitive, physical, creative, and social development. A recent highlight of this approach was the Early Years Science Fair.
The event moved away from the usual idea of science as memorising facts. Instead, it invited children to explore through play. They built papier-mâché volcanoes, tested how clay and polymorphs respond to temperature, and mixed oobleck to discover the unusual behaviour of non-Newtonian fluids. Each hands-on activity was designed to encourage questions and curiosity.
It was also a chance to see how different areas of learning connect. Seashells were examined not just as objects from nature but as inspiration for art. In the process, children drew, created and discussed their findings, naturally bringing together scientific thinking and creative expression.
The fair supported language, confidence and social skills growth alongside academic development. Teachers noticed how students worked together, shared their observations, and found pride in explaining their experiments. For many, it was their first time presenting in front of a group, offering valuable experience in communication and self-expression.
Preschool Homeroom Teacher Ms Siska shared her thoughts on the event: “These activities weren’t just fun. They were designed to promote inquiry-based learning. We want our students to ask ‘why’ and ‘how’ and to make connections with the world around them.”
In many ways, the Science Fair reflected the school’s broader philosophy. It was not just an event on the calendar but a meaningful example of how Bali Island School brings learning to life from the beginning, encouraging young minds to stay curious and confident as they grow.
Discover why Bali Island School is the top international IB school in Bali, providing a well-rounded, holistic Early Years education.
Bali Island School
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