Primary School

Nurturing curiosity through discovery, play, and purpose.

At Glenelg Country School, the Primary School provides a joyful beginning to lifelong learning. The curriculum emphasizes not only what students learn, but how they learn. Serving students ages two through kindergarten, our program is designed to honor the wonder of early childhood, where curiosity, imagination, and discovery shape every experience.

Little Dragons 2’s and 3’s

Our youngest learners begin their journey in the Little Dragons 2’s and 3’s Programs, guided by a Reggio Emilia–inspired approach to early education. Learning becomes a collaborative journey shaped by individual interests enhanced by strong relationships among students, teachers, and families. This philosophy encourages children to express their ideas through exploration and play. In small, nurturing classrooms, degreed teachers guide students as they investigate the world through art, language, movement, music, and the natural environment. Early childhood is a time of profound cognitive, social, emotional, and physical growth.

Learning extends beyond the classroom to our 90-acre wooded campus, where Little Dragons enjoy daily outdoor experiences. They observe tadpoles in the pond and draw beneath the trees. This hands-on engagement fosters collaboration, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning.

Our Little Dragons program offers flexibility with a half-day (7:30 am – 12:30 pm) or a full-day (7:30 am – 6:00 pm) option, five days per week. A summer extension to the school year can be added to make it a year-round program.  

Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten

As students progress to Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten, experiential learning develops through a project-based approach that builds on their natural sense of inquiry. Projects emerge from student interests and connect across disciplines, helping children develop problem-solving skills. Lessons in science, literacy, math, and the arts connect to create authentic learning experiences.

Primary School students also enjoy weekly specials in music, library, physical education, and technology. We prioritize building a balanced foundation for intellectual, social, emotional, and physical growth. Small class sizes allow teachers to personalize instruction and celebrate each child’s progress not only academically, but socially as they learn to express feelings and form friendships.

At Glenelg Country School, we view education as a partnership between educators and family. Whether studying world cultures or learning American Sign Language, children are supported by both teachers and parents who value their voices and discoveries. Together, we nurture confident, capable learners ready for the next steps in Lower School and beyond.

Our Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten programs are full-day, from 8:15 am – 3:15 pm, five days per week. Morning and afternoon extended day options start at 7:30 am and end at 6:00 pm.

Eligibility

• Little Dragons 2’s: Age 2 by September 1
• Little Dragons 3’s: Age 3 by September 1
• Pre-Kindergarten: Age 4 by September 1
• Kindergarten: Age 5 by September 1