Starting KG1 at ICS Côte d’Azur

The admissions process for the Early Years program at ICS Côte d’Azur bilingual school is designed to be smooth and supportive for families. Here’s how it works:

1. Initial Inquiry & School Visit

Families are encouraged to contact the admissions team to schedule a personalized tour of the school or attend an open house event. This allows parents to see the learning environment, meet teachers, and understand the bilingual approach.

2. Application Submission

Parents complete an online application form, pay the application fee and submit the required documents, which typically include:

• A copy of the child’s birth certificate or passport
• Recent health and vaccination records
• Previous school reports (if applicable)
• A passport-sized photo of the child

3. Family Meeting & Child Visit (if needed)

The admissions team may arrange a meeting with the family to discuss the child’s background, language exposure, and any specific needs. For preschool-aged children, a short classroom visit may be recommended to help assess readiness and ensure a smooth transition.

4. Enrollment Confirmation

Once the application is reviewed, families receive an offer of admission. To secure a place, parents must complete the registration paperwork, sign the school contract and pay the enrolment fees.

5. Welcome & Orientation

Before the school year begins, families are invited to an orientation event to help children and parents feel comfortable and prepared for their bilingual learning journey.

To learn more, head on over to the admissions section of our website.

Yes, ICS Côte d’Azur offers trial days and school visits to help families and children experience the bilingual Early Years environment before enrolling.

School Visits & Tours

Parents are encouraged to schedule a personalized visit to tour the classrooms, meet teachers, and see how the bilingual program works in action. This helps families understand the school's approach to early learning and immersion.

Trial Days for Children

For some applicants, a trial session or short classroom visit may be arranged. This gives children the opportunity to explore the learning space, interact with peers, and engage in play-based bilingual activities. It also allows teachers to observe the child’s comfort level and help ensure a smooth transition.

Welcome & Transition Support

Once enrolled, families receive guidance on settling in, with gradual entry options if needed—especially for younger children or those new to a bilingual environment.

At ICS Côte d’Azur, we ensure a gentle and supportive transition into school life, helping children feel safe, confident, and excited to learn in a bilingual environment.

1. Gradual Timetable for a Smooth Start

For our youngest learners, we offer a staggered start or shortened days at the beginning of the school year. This allows children to adjust gradually to their new routine, helping them feel comfortable in their new surroundings.

2. Building Trust with Teachers & Assistants

Our experienced bilingual teachers and assistants take time to form strong, individual connections with each child. Through small group activities, one-on-one interactions, and comforting routines, children learn to trust their caregivers and feel secure in the classroom.

3. Encouraging Friendships & Social Bonds

We create plenty of opportunities for children to play, collaborate, and communicate with their peers. Through group games, storytelling, and shared activities, children naturally form friendships, easing their transition into the school community.

4. Regular Contact with Parents

We maintain close communication with parents, offering updates on their child's well-being and progress. Parents are encouraged to share insights about their child's personality, interests, and routines to help teachers provide a personalised, reassuring experience.

To know more, read a recent article on the transition to school for our youngest learners.

At ICS Côte d’Azur bilingual school, children learn both French and English naturally through a full immersion approach, where each language is woven into daily experiences, routines, and play.

Young learners are immersed in both languages from day one, with native-speaking teachers guiding them through songs, storytelling, games, and hands-on activities. The universal language of play allows children to explore, communicate, and make connections in both languages without pressure. Through repetition, visual cues, and interactive experiences, they develop a strong foundation in listening, speaking, and understanding before progressing to reading and writing.

By engaging in real-life contexts, such as group projects, role-play, and outdoor exploration, children acquire language naturally—just as they would in a multilingual home. The result is a dynamic, bilingual learning environment where language learning happens effortlessly and joyfully.

All ICS students attend school on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 8:30am to 3:45pm.

On Wednesdays there is school from 8:30am to 12:00pm.

Wednesday school is not mandatory for KG1 students, although the majority attend.

For more information, please take a look at our School Life page.

In KG1 and KG2 there is a maximum class size of 19, with one full time teacher and teaching assistant for each language.

In KG1, students are encouraged to take a one-to-two hour nap after lunch at 12:30pm. Those that do not nap will partake in quiet time activities instead.

On Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, ICS students enjoy a hot meal at lunchtime with a starter, main course, dessert, bread and cheese. 

Early Years students have one small snack at morning break, and another at afternoon break. At ICS we have a healthy snack policy and encourage families to pack two small pieces of fruit, vegetables, savoury crackers or cheese for students.

Full details of our snack policy is shared on our parent portal once a family has enrolled at the school.

As the Côte d'Azur benefits from sunshine all year round, children regularly go outdoors for class activities and free play during break times.

Additionally, in the Early Years students have two x 30-minute classes of sport per week.

At our bilingual preschool, we believe that strong communication between teachers and parents is essential for a child’s success and well-being. Teachers are available for informal check-ins at drop-off and pick-up, providing quick updates on a child’s day, mood, or any important moments. For more detailed insights, parents can communicate with teachers via our online learning platform, Seesaw, where they receive messages, photos, and videos showcasing their child's learning journey. Email is also used for direct communication when needed.

Additionally, a weekly school newsletter keeps families informed about broader school events, activities, and important announcements, ensuring they feel connected to the school community.

Yes, Early Years students at ICS Côte d’Azur wear a school uniform consisting of a red or white ICS polo or t shirt, and a blue ICS hooded jacket, fleece or jumper.

Uniforms are available to purchase from our online store once a family is enrolled.

For more information, click here to read our uniform policy.

Generally, children should be potty trained and out of nappies before starting KG1. We understand that every child develops at their own pace, and occasional accidents are perfectly normal — our team is always there to support and encourage children as they become more independent in using the bathroom. Our classrooms have child-friendly facilities, and we gently help children build confidence and routines around going to the bathroom throughout the day.

Parents at ICS Côte d’Azur have numerous opportunities to get involved in school activities and contribute to the vibrant school community.

Our Parent Association (PA) plays a key role in organizing events and fostering a strong connection between families and the school. Parents can participate in fundraising events that support school initiatives, as well as assist with class trips, bringing their expertise and enthusiasm to enrich students’ learning experiences.

Additionally, parents are always welcomed to attend or help organise end-of-year graduation ceremonies, celebrating the accomplishments of the students.

Your child’s classroom teacher is always your first point of contact. You’re welcome to speak with them briefly at drop-off or pick-up, or get in touch via email or through the Seesaw app if you have any questions or would like to share an update.

To let us know about an illness, absence, a change to your personal details, or an additional emergency contact, simply email reception@icscotedazur.com.