Franciscan Foreign Kindergarten (FFK)
The Franciscan Foreign Kindergarten (FFK) was established in 1975 by Franciscan missionaries in Seoul, South Korea. Located in the Hannam-dong area, this non-profit institution was founded to serve the educational needs of foreign children. The kindergarten provides a unique learning environment where children from various cultural backgrounds, representing over 35 countries, come together to learn and grow. The primary language of instruction is English, and the curriculum is designed to support the intellectual, emotional, and social development of children ages 2 to 6 years old
Since its founding, FFK has been dedicated to offering high-quality early childhood education, with a strong emphasis on fostering cultural awareness and respect for diversity, reflecting its mission and the values of its founders.
1. Curriculum and Educational Programs
The curriculum at the Franciscan Foreign Kindergarten (FFK) is designed to support the holistic development of children aged 2 to 6, with an emphasis on language development, social skills, and emotional growth. The main language of instruction is English, creating an immersive environment for young learners.
Key aspects of the curriculum include:
Play-Based Learning: The program emphasizes play as a critical part of learning, where children engage in creative activities that help them develop cognitive, social, and motor skills.
Cultural Awareness: Given the diverse student body, the curriculum includes elements of multicultural education, encouraging respect and understanding for different cultures and backgrounds.
Physical and Emotional Development: The curriculum supports not only intellectual growth but also emotional regulation and physical activity, ensuring a balanced development in various domains.
Structured Activities: While fostering creativity, the program also incorporates structured learning sessions that cover foundational subjects such as basic math, literacy, and environmental studies, tailored to young learners’ need
The approach is child-centered, focusing on fostering a love for learning while developing essential life skills.
2. Cultural Environment
The cultural environment at the Franciscan Foreign Kindergarten (FFK) is highly diverse, reflecting the wide range of nationalities among its students. With children from over 35 countries attending, the kindergarten fosters a strong sense of multiculturalism and inclusivity. This rich mix of backgrounds allows students to naturally learn about and appreciate different cultures, languages, and traditions through everyday interactions and various educational activities.wwww
In addition to its multicultural atmosphere, the school incorporates cultural awareness into its curriculum, encouraging respect for diversity while promoting values of global citizenship. This environment not only enhances social learning but also prepares children to appreciate and engage with the broader world from an early age. The school's teaching methods include celebrating various cultural holidays and traditions, which further enriches the students' understanding of global diversity
3. Facilities and Campus
The campus of the Franciscan Foreign Kindergarten (FFK) in Seoul is designed to provide a safe, engaging, and conducive environment for young learners. Located in the central Hannam-dong area, the campus is accessible and provides a blend of indoor and outdoor facilities. These spaces are tailored to support a variety of activities essential for early childhood development.
Key features of the facilities include:
Classrooms: Spacious and equipped for interactive, play-based learning, encouraging creativity and socialization among children.
Play Areas: Both indoor and outdoor spaces are available for physical activities and recreational play, which are integral to the curriculum.
Cultural Spaces: Given the school’s diverse student body, there are areas that promote cross-cultural learning and exchange.
Safety: The campus prioritizes child safety with secure playgrounds and classrooms designed for young children’s needs
Overall, the facility supports the school’s mission of providing a nurturing environment where children can grow socially, emotionally, and cognitively.