Top 5 Preschools in Phnom Penh Offering Exceptional Early Childhood Education

Phnom Penh, has seen a steady rise in early childhood education options as parents look for trusted, well-structured programs. While each school has its own approach—ranging from international standards to long-established teaching methods—families generally seek environments that balance safety, engagement, and effective learning. Here are five preschools that have built solid reputations for quality in Phnom Penh.

1. The International School of Phnom Penh (ISPP) Early Years Program

Highlights:

• Inquiry-Based Learning: ISPP follows the IB Primary Years Programme, engaging children through hands-on activities that encourage exploration and discovery.
• Highly Qualified Staff: Regular professional development ensures teachers remain current with best practices in early childhood education.
• Holistic Development: Spacious outdoor play areas, a well-stocked library, art facilities, and guided use of child-friendly technology cater to cognitive, physical, and social growth.
• Multicultural Community: Families from over 50 countries provide a rich cultural tapestry that broadens children’s global perspectives.

2. Canadian International School of Phnom Penh (CIS) Early Childhood Program

Highlights:

• Play-Based Curriculum: Children learn through play, fostering problem-solving skills, autonomy, and a lifelong love of learning.
• Modern Facilities: Bright, airy classrooms and safe indoor/outdoor spaces encourage both structured and free-form exploration.
• Focus on Well-Being: Skilled educators emphasize emotional security, empathy, and resilience, ensuring children feel supported and valued.
• Global Readiness: English-language instruction and exposure to diverse cultures help children develop a global mindset from an early age.

3. Montessori International School of Phnom Penh

Highlights:

• Authentic Montessori Approach: Child-sized materials, mixed-age classes, and respect for each child’s pace of learning encourage independence and confidence.
• Practical Life Skills: Simple, everyday tasks—like pouring drinks or tying shoelaces—develop fine motor skills, concentration, and self-reliance.
• Close Observation: Low student-to-teacher ratios and attentive guidance ensure individualized support and meaningful growth.
• Sensory-Rich Environment: The carefully prepared classrooms invite exploration through all senses, nurturing an intrinsic love for learning.

4. iCan British International School Early Years

Highlights:

• UK’s EYFS Framework: This well-regarded program balances structured activities with child-initiated play, laying a solid foundation in literacy, numeracy, and social skills.
• Creative, Flexible Learning Spaces: Open-ended materials, role-play corners, and expressive arts activities promote imagination, teamwork, and problem-solving.
• Caring Environment: Small class sizes and caring teachers help foster secure attachments, ensuring children feel understood, respected, and supported.
• Continuity in Education: As part of an established international school, iCan provides a seamless transition into primary education, maintaining a sense of familiarity and consistency.

5. Orange Crest Preschool

Highlights:

• Child-Centered Curriculum: Orange Crest designs activities around each child’s interests, creating a dynamic environment where learners flourish at their own pace.
• Nurturing Atmosphere: The warm, supportive staff prioritizes emotional well-being, helping children feel safe, confident, and ready to embrace new challenges.
• Innovative Learning Tools: From sensory tables to interactive storytelling, multi-faceted learning engagements foster language development, curiosity, and creativity.
• Community Involvement: Regular events, celebrations of cultural traditions, and parent-teacher collaboration encourage a strong community spirit.

Choosing the right preschool in Phnom Penh is a personal journey influenced by family values, your child’s personality, and the educational philosophy you prefer. Whether you’re drawn to the inquiry-based IB framework, Montessori’s child-led exploration, or the nurturing environment at Orange Crest, Phnom Penh’s array of outstanding options ensures a promising start to your child’s educational journey.