In the year before starting school, children experience a well-balanced daily rhythm with plenty of space to play, explore and discover. A flexible timetable at the start, familiar routines, bilingual learning and a close connection to the primary school provide security – and gently prepare them for the next step.
The daily routine in reception is playful and flexible. At the same time, children begin to experience moments of focused learning and gradually build their ability to concentrate over longer periods.
As the reception year progresses, the first elements of school life are gently introduced. Free play – which takes centre stage at the beginning of the year – gives your child plenty of space to grow and explore. Step by step, these play phases become more guided and slightly reduced towards the end of the year, gently preparing your child for the transition to primary school.
At both campuses, our reception offers child-friendly indoor spaces and generous outdoor areas that invite children to play, explore and create. In Erlenbach, children enjoy wide open green spaces, while in Heilbronn, urban roof terraces provide a unique and protected outdoor setting – complete with play areas and sports facilities.
Whether in the role-play room, the learning workshop or outside in the secure outdoor area: your child will find plenty of space to grow, imagine and discover freely.
Reception children share after-school care, afternoon clubs and mealtimes with the primary school children. This encourages a strong sense of community and makes the transition into school life smooth and natural.
We place great importance on a balanced, child-friendly diet. Our in-house kitchens prepare fresh meals every day, tailored to the needs of growing children. We make sure that meals are not only healthy, but also enjoyable – because children are more likely to eat well when food tastes good. This way, we support healthy development while fostering a positive and mindful eating culture.
To underline our commitment to quality, our kitchen has been certified by the German Nutrition Society (DGE, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Ernährung).
Children in reception can also take part in our after-school care and afternoon clubs. They enjoy age-appropriate activities in a familiar environment, guided by trusted caregivers and embedded in a consistent daily routine.
We also provide care during most school holidays. Our holiday programme includes a variety of excursions and creative projects tailored to the age and developmental needs of reception children.
With only 25 closing days per year, we offer reliable and extensive childcare. The school is closed during the Christmas holidays and for three weeks in the summer.
Wearing our school clothing supports a sense of belonging and helps create a positive, focused learning environment. From reception onwards, school clothing is required for visible outerwear – encouraging a strong sense of community right from the start.
To help families and reduce waste, internal WhatsApp groups are available for second-hand school clothing. If you're interested, please contact your class parent representative. New school clothing is available from the Uniphorms shop.
