The Blue Group is our preschool group for children aged 5 to 6 years. It gives children a structured, encouraging environment in which to strengthen independence, confidence and school readiness.
During the transitional months from July to September, we support children who are moving on to school while helping newcomers settle into the group. The standard preschool programme begins in October, once children are familiar with the group and daily routine.
Curriculum
Eclectic Curriculum
Our preschool curriculum is broad, varied and designed to give children a strong foundation for school. It uses a multi-sensory, integrated approach and draws on elements of Montessori, STEM, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf and Bank Street methods.
Monthly Topics
Monthly topics provide a shared focus for learning. Activities are planned around each topic so children can explore new ideas in a fun, age-appropriate way.
Arts and Crafts
In the Blue Group, children are encouraged to express themselves freely through art. We place strong emphasis on process art, where the creative journey matters more than the finished product.
Pre-school Time
Tuesdays are dedicated to literacy, including Jolly Phonics. Thursdays focus on numeracy. Differentiated activities allow teachers to adapt the level of challenge to each child’s needs.
Weekly Rhythm
Monday — topic-related activities · Tuesday — mathematics / numeracy day · Wednesday — science day · Thursday — alphabet day (Jolly Phonics) · Friday — toy day. The gym is at our disposal Monday to Thursday.
EYFS Areas of Learning
Personal, Social & Emotional Development · Speech, Language & Communication · Physical Development · Literacy · Mathematics · Understanding of the World · Expressive Arts and Design.
Daily schedule
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 07:30 – 08:30 | All children congregate in the Yellow Group |
| 08:30 – 09:30 | One-to-one arts and crafts sessions / free play |
| 09:30 – 10:10 | Morning circle / register |
| 10:10 – 10:30 | Snack time |
| 10:30 – 11:00 | Second circle time |
| 11:00 – 11:45 | Follow-up activity |
| 11:45 – 12:20 | Outdoor play |
| 12:20 – 13:00 | Lunch time |
| 13:00 – 13:15 | Story time |
| 13:15 – 13:30 | Follow-up activity |
| 13:30 – 14:30 | Free play |
| 14:30 – 15:00 | Snack time |
| 15:00 – 16:00 | Outdoor play |
| 16:00 – 17:30 | Free play (all groups together) |
Meals
A catering service provides a nutritious, two-course hot lunch for the children at VEP. A vegetarian option is always available.
Please notify us of any allergies or dietary requirements during registration.
Please provide your child with a healthy mid-morning snack. Chocolate and sweets are not permitted for snack time.
VEP serves a healthy afternoon snack that varies from day to day. Items may include fresh fruit, cheese and bread, cereal, yoghurt, sandwiches and, occasionally, cake as a treat.
Blue Group video
Teachers
Rizwana
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Hello, my name is Rizwana and I come from Birmingham, England. I have been living in Vienna for over 15 years and am a mother to two wonderful girls.
It was after college that I realised I wanted to work with children and my position as a classroom assistant at a junior school in Birmingham only strengthened my career choice. I thoroughly enjoyed the time I spent there and gained some valuable insight into the teaching profession.
I completed my training as an English language instructor in 2010 and started conducting English courses for adults and children at various language institutes in Vienna. During this time I was able to develop and enhance my teaching skills and learn new and fun ways of teaching children, which I immediately incorporated into my lessons with very promising results.
I soon realised that I was at my happiest when working with young children, which prompted me to pursue a diploma in early childhood education and care in 2015. During my studies I worked at the VEP as a group assistant for over one year and am now working as a pedagogue after completing the diploma.
Inclusive education is at the core of my philosophy. I value individual differences, interests and play. Providing equitable learning opportunities and care which meet individual children’s needs is of utmost importance to me.
I bring with me a wealth of new ideas, creative approaches and a passion to nurture children’s explorative nature. I am eager and feel privileged to contribute to the intellectual, social, emotional and physical development of young children and am dedicated to providing a stimulating and fun environment in order for them to thrive and grow into happy and confident individuals.
Veli
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Hi, I’m Veli. I was born and raised in London and recently moved to Vienna, and I’m excited to be joining the team as a Teaching Assistant.
What draws me to working with children is their honesty and curiosity. They see the world in a way that’s simple but meaningful, and I really enjoy being part of those everyday moments — whether that’s understanding something new, building confidence, or just seeing them feel proud of themselves.
From my experience supporting families and caring for children, I’ve learned that patience and adaptability matter just as much as energy. Every child is different, and I enjoy figuring out what works for each one — whether that’s through play, creativity, or just taking the time to listen.
Growing up in London shaped how I connect with people. Being around different cultures taught me to be open, observant, and respectful of different perspectives, and that’s something I bring into my work every day.
I’m really happy to be here and looking forward to creating a positive and supportive environment for the children.
Alexandra Ruhmannseder
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Hello, my name is Alexandra Ruhmannseder, and I am proud to serve as the head teacher of our kindergarten. With over a decade of experience in early childhood education, my journey has been one of continuous learning, passion, and dedication to the well-being and development of young minds.
I began my career as a preschool teacher in August 2006. Over the years, I have had the privilege of working with all the groups in our kindergarten, gaining invaluable experience and insights into the unique needs of children at various stages of their early development. This hands-on experience has shaped my understanding of how to create a comfortable, inclusive, and stimulating environment for every child.
In 2019, I completed advanced management training to take on the role of head teacher. My responsibilities now include leading the kindergarten with a focus on logistics, effective communication with parents, staff management, and, most importantly, ensuring the happiness and holistic development of your children.
One of my special roles is teaching German as part of our language development program. I work closely with all groups, supporting the children in both German and English through engaging and interactive activities.
I am deeply committed to fostering a space where children feel safe, valued, and excited to learn. I look forward to continuing this rewarding journey alongside our wonderful team, children, and families.