Cardiff, the capital of Wales, implements early childhood education under the “Foundation Phase” framework ([Reference 1]), a distinctive Welsh curriculum for children aged three to seven. The Foundation Phase emphasizes experiential learning, play-based exploration, and developing children’s independence and creativity.
Children aged three and four are entitled to a minimum of 10 hours of free early education weekly through the Welsh Government’s Early Education Offer ([Reference 2]). Additionally, the “Childcare Offer for Wales” provides up to 30 hours of free early education and childcare for eligible working families ([Reference 3]).
In Cardiff, bilingual education is strongly promoted; Welsh-medium preschools (Meithrin) and English-medium settings coexist, supporting children to develop bilingual fluency. Cultural identity, outdoor learning, and inclusive practices are central themes across all early years settings.
As a kindergarten director, I find Cardiff’s model inspiring: a holistic, bilingual, and culture-rich approach that respects children’s individuality and nurtures their curiosity—elements that are increasingly vital in today’s global and interconnected world.

References:

• [1] Welsh Government: Foundation Phase Framework

• [2] Cardiff Council: Early Education Offer for 3-4 Year Olds

• [3] Welsh Government: Childcare Offer for Wales

ウェールズの首都カーディフでは、独自の「ファンデーション・フェーズ（Foundation Phase）」に基づく幼児教育が行われています。これは3歳から7歳までの子どもたちを対象とし、体験型学習、遊びを通じた探究、子どもたちの自主性・創造性を育むことを重視したカリキュラムです。
3歳・4歳児には、最低でも週10時間の無償早期教育が提供され（カーディフ市教育局「Early Education Offer」）、さらに就労家庭には最大30時間の無償教育・保育支援（「Childcare Offer for Wales」）も用意されています。
カーディフでは、バイリンガル教育が非常に推進されており、ウェールズ語による保育（Meithrin）と英語による施設の双方が共存し、子どもたちに自然な形で二言語習得の機会を提供しています。
また、文化的アイデンティティの尊重、アウトドアラーニング、包括的支援体制がすべての施設で大切にされています。
子ども一人ひとりの個性を尊重し、好奇心を育てるカーディフの教育モデルは、私たちがこれから目指すべき教育の在り方を示してくれています。

Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital, reflects Scotland’s distinct approach to early childhood education, rooted in the “Curriculum for Excellence” ([Reference 1]) and the “Early Years Framework” ([Reference 2]). Unlike England’s EYFS, Scotland emphasizes broad capacities: developing successful learners, confident individuals, responsible citizens, and effective contributors from the early years onward.
Children aged three and four are entitled to up to 1,140 hours of free early learning and childcare per year (approximately 30 hours per week during term time) ([Reference 3]). Importantly, Edinburgh’s policies highlight outdoor learning, child-centered planning, and parental involvement as core elements of quality provision.
The “Getting it Right for Every Child” (GIRFEC) policy underpins all services, ensuring that holistic support—wellbeing, safety, achievement—is consistently prioritized.
As a kindergarten director, I am impressed by Edinburgh’s integrated vision: rather than viewing early education as preparation for school, it is seen as preparation for life, recognizing every child’s individuality and right to thrive.

References:

• [1] Scottish Government: Curriculum for Excellence – Early Level Guidance

• [2] Early Years Framework, Scottish Government (2008)

• [3] Scottish Government: 1,140 Hours Free Childcare Entitlement Policy