Raffles ECC Lakes 1, EYFS Nursery in The Lakes Dubai
Raffles Early Childhood Centre
Location and how to get there
The Lakes, Dubai
| Mon – Thu | 8:00 am – 6:00 pm |
| Friday | 8:00 am – 6:00 pm |
| Sat – Sun | Closed |
About Raffles Early Childhood Centre
Established in 2010, Raffles ECC Lakes 1 sits in the heart of the Lakes community. The campus has seven classrooms designed for children of different ages, plus three outdoor areas with soft playing floors and natural materials. Following recent renovation, the interior has a calming Scandinavian aesthetic with natural tones. The team is led by manager Cara Small, and parents consistently praise the warmth and individual attention each child receives.
Fees and what’s included
Inquire directly for the current 2026 fee structure.
Facilities and safety
Curriculum and age groups
Raffles Early Childhood Centre follows the Early Years Foundation Stage (UK framework). Play based and hands on learning that co-creates the curriculum with the children, focusing on individual needs and interests. Curriculum is progressive and tailored to different ages and stages, planned with progression to Innoventures schools in mind. English is the primary language of instruction. Arabic is also taught.
| Infant (45 days to 18 months) | Dedicated infant care with EYFS sensory and motor development focus. |
| Toddler (18 months to 3 years) | Play based learning introducing language, motor skills, and routines. |
| Preschool (3 to 4 years) | Full EYFS framework with kindergarten readiness. |
| FS1 and FS2 (4 to 6 years) | Foundation Stage learning with progression into the Innoventures school pathway. |
Our take
Strengths
- Established in 2010, one of the longest running Raffles ECCs
- Seven age defined classrooms and three outdoor play areas
- Scandinavian aesthetic interiors after recent renovation
- Manager Cara Small leads a team known for individual attention
- Native flora throughout the campus introducing children to nature
- Easy access from Al Barsha, Al Barsha South, and JLT
Things to know
- Inside The Lakes community, easiest for residents and surrounding villa areas
- Inquire for current 2026 fee structure as fees vary by attendance pattern
- Library, indoor play area, and outdoor play area all on site
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Raffles ECC Lakes 1 branch located?
The Lakes 1 branch is at Raffles ECC Lakes 1, The Lakes Community, Dubai.
What curriculum does Raffles ECC follow?
Raffles ECC follows the UK Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum across all 8 Dubai branches. The curriculum is play based and hands on, co-created with the children, and focuses on individual needs and interests. Raffles ECC is accredited and certified by the Pre-School Learning Alliance UK.
What ages does Raffles ECC accept?
Children from 45 days to 6 years old, covering infant, toddler, preschool, FS1, and FS2 stages.
Does Raffles ECC offer a school progression pathway?
Yes. Raffles ECC is part of the Innoventures Education group. Children at any Raffles ECC are given priority admission to one of five Innoventures schools, including Raffles International School, Dubai International Academy Emirates Hills, Dubai International Academy Al Barsha, Raffles World Academy, and Collegiate International School.
What are Raffles ECC fees in 2026?
Fees range from approximately AED 2,689 per month for 3 days per week (8am to 2pm) up to AED 5,667 per month for 5 days per week (8am to 6pm). Registration fee is AED 3,000, offset against the third term fee. Final fees are subject to KHDA approval.
How flexible are the attendance options at Raffles ECC?
Parents can choose 3 or 5 days per week, with end times from 2pm, 3pm, 4pm, 5pm, or 6pm. This makes Raffles ECC particularly attractive for working parents who need a flexible schedule.
