In London, early childhood education is governed primarily by the “Early Years Foundation Stage” (EYFS) framework ([Reference 1]), which sets standards for the learning, development, and care of children from birth to age five. London’s diverse population has led to a strong emphasis on inclusion, multicultural learning, and bilingual support, particularly in boroughs like Tower Hamlets and Lambeth.
Since 2017, the UK government has provided 30 hours of free childcare per week for eligible three- and four-year-olds ([Reference 2]). Additional support, such as the “Early Years Pupil Premium” ([Reference 3]), offers targeted funding to help children from disadvantaged backgrounds catch up early.
Many London nurseries and preschools integrate Forest School principles—outdoor, nature-based learning experiences—to support physical, social, and emotional development.
As a kindergarten director, I find London’s approach noteworthy: balancing structured educational frameworks with cultural sensitivity and holistic child development. London offers a rich, dynamic model of early learning that prepares children not just academically, but for life in a global society.

References:

• [1] Department for Education (DfE): Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Framework (2024)

• [2] Gov.uk: 30 Hours Free Childcare Eligibility and Implementation (2017)

• [3] Early Years Pupil Premium Guidance (UK Department for Education)

ロンドンの幼児教育は、「初期教育基盤ステージ（EYFS）」に基づき、生後から5歳までの学び・成長・ケアに関する標準が定められています。多様な文化背景を持つ人口を反映し、多文化共生やバイリンガル支援に特に力を入れており、タワーハムレッツ区やランベス区などでは積極的な取り組みが見られます。
2017年から、対象となる3歳・4歳児に対し、週30時間の無償保育が提供されるようになりました。また「Early Years Pupil Premium」制度を通じて、経済的に不利な環境にある子どもたちへの追加支援も行われています。
多くの施設では「フォレスト・スクール」の考え方（自然の中での体験型学習）を取り入れ、子どもたちの身体的・社会的・情緒的発達を支援しています。
ロンドンの幼児教育は、体系的な枠組みと文化的感受性、そして子どもたちの全人的成長を両立させており、私たちにとっても大変参考になる先進的なモデルです。

Hamburg places early childhood education at the heart of its vision for social equality. Since 2014, children from age one are entitled to five hours of free childcare daily, regardless of parental employment status ([Reference 1]). The “Hamburger Bildungsempfehlungen” ([Reference 2]) guide kindergartens with a strong focus on language development, intercultural learning, and personal responsibility.
Moreover, Hamburg has pioneered the “Early Excellence Centers” model ([Reference 3]), integrating childcare, parental support, and social services under one roof. This holistic approach ensures that children’s needs—emotional, social, and educational—are addressed in tandem.
Particular attention is given to children from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds, with specialized language support programs like “Frühe Chancen” (“Early Opportunities”). Many Kitas actively promote bilingual education (especially German-English, German-Portuguese).
Hamburg’s commitment to early education reflects a belief that every child, regardless of background, deserves a strong start. As a kindergarten director, I find this integrated model particularly compelling—a reminder that high-quality education and social support must go hand in hand to nurture each child’s potential fully.

References:

• [1] Hamburg Authority for Labor, Social Affairs, Family and Integration: Free Childcare Policy Overview

• [2] Hamburger Bildungsempfehlungen für die Bildung und Erziehung von Kindern bis zum Schuleintritt (2021)

• [3] Early Excellence Centers Hamburg Initiative