Preschool education curricula in the TRNC, New Zealand and Seychelles

a comparative analysis

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.22633/rpge.v30iesp1.20897

Keywords:

Comparative curriculum analysis, Early childhood education, Te Whāriki, Educational policy

Abstract

The study aims to compare and contrast the preschool education curricula in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), New Zealand, and Seychelles focusing on the curriculum structure, pedagogical philosophies, instructional strategies, assessment practices, family and community involvement, and teacher qualifications in relation to the development of children’s social and interpersonal competencies. A qualitative document analysis approach was employed, involving a systematic review of official curriculum documents, legislative regulations, and reports published by international organizations. The findings show that all three countries adopt child-centered and play-based approaches that support children’s holistic development; however, the ways in which these approaches are conceptualized and implemented differ according to national, cultural, and educational priorities. Overall, the findings suggest that preschool education in the TRNC could be strengthened by drawing on internationally recognized practices observed in New Zealand and Seychelles, particularly those that emphasize relationship-centered pedagogy, strong family partnerships, and inclusive social learning environments.

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Author Biographies

Dervişe Amca Toklu, Near East University

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Department of Preschool Education, Atatürk Faculty of Education, Near East University, Near East Boulevard, Nicosia, Cyprus.

Ayşe Celebi, Near East University

Student, Department of Preschool Education, Atatürk Faculty of Education, Near East University, Near East Boulevard, Nicosia, Cyprus.

Enise Küçük, Near East University

Student, Department of Preschool Education, Atatürk Faculty of Education, Near East University, Near East Boulevard, Nicosia, Cyprus.

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Published

30/03/2026

How to Cite

Amca Toklu, D., Celebi, A., & Küçük, E. (2026). Preschool education curricula in the TRNC, New Zealand and Seychelles: a comparative analysis. Revista on Line De Política E Gestão Educacional, 30(esp1), e026013. https://doi.org/10.22633/rpge.v30iesp1.20897