CEFA helps get children kindergarten and life ready.
The first six years of a child’s life are key to their development and will have a huge impact on how they will learn for the rest of their lives. CEFA curriculum is based on the latest research in child and brain development to ensure CEFA students are ready for kindergarten, and for life.
About the Founder of CEFA Early Learning
Natacha V. Beim
Early Learning Expert
Natacha V. Beim is an Early Learning Expert and the Founder and CEO of CEFA Early Learning Private Schools for children ages one to five. CEFA’s proprietary curriculum features a unique blend of core subjects, such as reading and math, combined with fine arts, including yoga and music, providing children with the freedom to learn and grow through play.
At just 21 years old, Natacha V. Beim understood what kind of teacher she wanted to be. She knew that research into early childhood education demonstrated how experience-based brain development sets a course for future learning, health and behaviour.
Beim realized that age-specific curricula aimed at engaging and teaching the whole child were needed, so she searched for a school doing just that. When she couldn’t find it, she began creating a curriculum of her own.
The History of CEFA Early Learning
Natacha Beim working on the construction of her first school.
By age 22, Beim had finalized her curriculum and began working on a business plan, and at 25, she opened the doors to her first CEFA school.
She had trained each one of her new teachers one by one to enable them to work with her own curriculum. Her curriculum focused on teaching children to read and write, as well as many other skills, and included art, yoga, dance and many other disciplines that were not the norm in early years centres. Early Childhood Educators had to trust that this “new” methodology was good for children, and parents had to be early adopters of this new way of teaching.
Natacha Beim cutting the ribbon of her new school with the Mayor of West Vancouver.
The first CEFA school defied all rules in Canadian early learning: It taught children to read and write, and had an excellent science and math curriculum, while other early learning centres focused only on play. It also offered a full-time program when preschools only opened between two and four hours instead. It had a chef preparing children’s meals when no other centres focused on children’s nutrition, and it had an excellent arts curriculum which included dance and drama. At first, parents wondered whether the school would be too much for their children. Only the children of European, Asian and South American families welcomed the school with open arms, as the learning was something they were familiar with. But soon, noticing the difference in their own children after only a few weeks attending CEFA, all parents became fans of this new approach to early learning.
Beim, expecting her first child (far right), at a pajama party she organized for families of her school.
Beim continued to work on her curriculum, and spent hours in the classrooms and working with her teachers to come up with even more games to introduce, as the whole curriculum was presented through games and play.
Beim’s oldest son, Julian, graduated from CEFA.
The school soon became extremely popular and waiting lists years long. Parents of the school often traveled over an hour each way to have their children attend the school. It was after the insistence of those parents that Beim decided to expand, allowing parents of CEFA students and teachers of her school to open schools closer to their homes. In 2003, a second CEFA school opened in the city of Burnaby, co-owned by a CEFA parent and a CEFA teacher.
Grand opening of CEFA Burnaby Canada Way, with Natacha Beim (far right), teacher Karen Chan (next to Beim), Mayor of Burnaby and CEFA parent Christine Yang.
Today there are close to 30 CEFA schools, all owned by parents of CEFA students or CEFA teachers.
Beim with student learning about math
Beim still works on the curriculum and teacher training, as well as being Executive Chair of CEFA Systems, the Franchise company. Both her sons, Julian and Dominick, graduated from CEFA and still remember those years with great fondness.
“I created CEFA before I had children, and seeing my own children go through the program gave me such joy – I felt very lucky to be with them during those years, and watch them learn before my very eyes!”
– Natacha V. Beim
Franchise Business Reviews
See what franchisees, parents and teachers say about CEFA.
I was amazed by CEFA
As a licensed Early Childhood Educator specializing in special needs and Infant Toddler, I understand the benefits of the CEFA program. The first time I visited a CEFA school, I was amazed. It’s different from all other centres, with classrooms for every age group equipped with developmentally appropriate toys, cinema room’s decorated with twinkling stars and in-house chef’s. I couldn’t imaging working anywhere that doesn’t have the same magical feeling that CEFA provides.
Karen Chan
CEFA Burnaby and Vancouver Franchise Partner
We lay the groundwork for a lifetime of learning.
Having been in the education field for over 14 years and worked for other child care centres, I can truly see the benefits of CEFA Early Learning. I began my career with CEFA in 2008 when I started working as a Teacher at the CEFA Langley location. I soon progressed to become the Principal of our beautiful CEFA Richmond location as my passion for the program was evident.What I love most about CEFA is the support system in place for Teachers and the respect that you’re given as an educator. It is refreshing to work for a centre that focuses entirely on the child. Over the years, CEFA has become a role mode for other centres and is now a leader in the field. I am proud to be a part of CEFA and am passionate about helping the youngest generation lay the groundwork for a lifetime of learning.
Katan Tailor
CEFA Richmond Principal
It is with great pride and earnest thanks that I write this letter today. It is Bradley’s 4th birthday today and he was just accepted to Kindergarten at Mulgrave Independent School a whole year early.
When we first enrolled Bradley at cefa it was for two reasons: to provide him with some social interaction skills and to give him a good start at an education. Our expectations were exceeded in every way.
The most telling trait of your school is his love of learning. Even on his days off he asks to be there. He’s excited about his class lessons, his friends, his teachers and about himself. He is confident, thoughtful, happy, and inquisitive. The program that you have put together fosters not just an understanding of the basic concepts such as the alphabet and numbers but problem solving, interest development, confidence building, and creativity.
The foundation that cefa has given Bradley will benefit more than simply his academic career. It is the building blocks of exceptional character development. The preparation he has received is for more than just school, it is for life.
With confidence we recommend your school to all parents who want to develop their child’s complete potential.
When we first enrolled Bradley at cefa it was for two reasons: to provide him with some social interaction skills and to give him a good start at an education. Our expectations were exceeded in every way.
The most telling trait of your school is his love of learning. Even on his days off he asks to be there. He’s excited about his class lessons, his friends, his teachers and about himself. He is confident, thoughtful, happy, and inquisitive. The program that you have put together fosters not just an understanding of the basic concepts such as the alphabet and numbers but problem solving, interest development, confidence building, and creativity.
The foundation that cefa has given Bradley will benefit more than simply his academic career. It is the building blocks of exceptional character development. The preparation he has received is for more than just school, it is for life.
With confidence we recommend your school to all parents who want to develop their child’s complete potential.
Stephanie Chu
Mother of Bradley
My husband and I would like to thank you warmly for giving our family the opportunity to attend your school, Core Education & Fine Arts.
Cefa has provided a fundamental environment for my two sons, which was especially necessary since they came from a non-Canadian environment and needed to settle in, having moved 3 countries in less than two years. This was crucial for them.
The bright and lively atmosphere for learning has seen the boys develop independence, and confidence in themselves, in a new place and a new country.
Having had one of my sons graduate from the cefa program already, I have seen him achieve above average grasp of the elementary curriculum. The transition to elementary school was very smooth.
Before cefa, the boys had attended a year of pure Montessori, and it was found that for the self-starter student, the method had a bit more of an impact than for the child who needs more guidance and encouragement. I have two children, one of them who is quite the self-starter and did well in the Montessori environment, and the other, of a more cautious personality did not seem to progress as well.
In cefa, they both progressed at admirable rates with both guidance and encouragement in the cefa approach.
Having had both my sons go through the cefa program, I definitely recommend it both for the avid student as well as for the average student. I find your method greatly benefits all children and develops them to their full potential.
The bright and lively atmosphere for learning has seen the boys develop independence, and confidence in themselves, in a new place and a new country.
Having had one of my sons graduate from the cefa program already, I have seen him achieve above average grasp of the elementary curriculum. The transition to elementary school was very smooth.
Before cefa, the boys had attended a year of pure Montessori, and it was found that for the self-starter student, the method had a bit more of an impact than for the child who needs more guidance and encouragement. I have two children, one of them who is quite the self-starter and did well in the Montessori environment, and the other, of a more cautious personality did not seem to progress as well.
In cefa, they both progressed at admirable rates with both guidance and encouragement in the cefa approach.
Having had both my sons go through the cefa program, I definitely recommend it both for the avid student as well as for the average student. I find your method greatly benefits all children and develops them to their full potential.
Susan and Richard Gilbert
It is unbelievable that it is the end of the school year already. Nicole has completed Stage 3 and our time at CEFA has sadly come to an end. At this time, I feel I must write to you to express my thoughts.
Firstly, I must congratulate you on creating a first-class pre-school establishment. I know (from too much previous experience) that there is nothing else out there like it. I wish we had come to CEFA much sooner. It is a wonderful professional environment, and at the same time, one which has a very friendly, easy atmosphere, in which you feel immediately comfortable.
The Stage 3 teaching staff have been fabulous. With great gentleness and kindness, they fostered an environment of learning that was fun, stimulating and safe. At the same time, they helped guide the children towards an appreciation of higher social values – I find support in this area critical. I admired how the teacher’s, guided by the students’ interests, undauntedly tackled more advanced topics (e.g. the solar system) and achieved incredible success. Nicole’s retention of the facts was amazing, and she loved to recount at home what she had learned! We also very much appreciated the genuine interest the teachers displayed in Nicole’s progress.
We enjoyed the many “extras” CEFA provides, especially in the area of parental support. In particular, we appreciated the extended hours to accommodate working parents’ schedules, and providing meals for the children. Chef Tobin is to be commended on the child-friendly, yet nutritious food he prepares.
Last, but not least, let’s examine the product: Simply stated, Nicole has had a wonderful year. She was eager to get to school each day, and never failed to say “I had a great day” whenever I picked her up. She has made great strides intellectually and emotionally in the past year. Nicole will be a young, yet confident Kindergartener. We know she is well prepared.
Thank you for a very happy association with CEFA. We wish you and all your staff a wonderful summer, and much further success in the future.
Firstly, I must congratulate you on creating a first-class pre-school establishment. I know (from too much previous experience) that there is nothing else out there like it. I wish we had come to CEFA much sooner. It is a wonderful professional environment, and at the same time, one which has a very friendly, easy atmosphere, in which you feel immediately comfortable.
The Stage 3 teaching staff have been fabulous. With great gentleness and kindness, they fostered an environment of learning that was fun, stimulating and safe. At the same time, they helped guide the children towards an appreciation of higher social values – I find support in this area critical. I admired how the teacher’s, guided by the students’ interests, undauntedly tackled more advanced topics (e.g. the solar system) and achieved incredible success. Nicole’s retention of the facts was amazing, and she loved to recount at home what she had learned! We also very much appreciated the genuine interest the teachers displayed in Nicole’s progress.
We enjoyed the many “extras” CEFA provides, especially in the area of parental support. In particular, we appreciated the extended hours to accommodate working parents’ schedules, and providing meals for the children. Chef Tobin is to be commended on the child-friendly, yet nutritious food he prepares.
Last, but not least, let’s examine the product: Simply stated, Nicole has had a wonderful year. She was eager to get to school each day, and never failed to say “I had a great day” whenever I picked her up. She has made great strides intellectually and emotionally in the past year. Nicole will be a young, yet confident Kindergartener. We know she is well prepared.
Thank you for a very happy association with CEFA. We wish you and all your staff a wonderful summer, and much further success in the future.
Sabine Ritson
Parents of Nicole
I love working for CEFA.
I have been a Teacher with CEFA for over a year and love the work ethic. As a CEFA Teacher I am given so much help along the way, the support system is great! The children love all elements of the program and it’s amazing to see them improve each year. I’m so glad I decided to move to CEFA as I really feel like I am making a difference!
CEFA Canada Way Teacher
My child loves CEFA
Our daughter Elise started as a student at CEFA when she was only 15 months old, and we absolutely love it! We have seen her flourish and grow leaps and bounds since she started. Her vocabulary has increased dramatically, and she is so much more inquisitive, and seems so mature compared to her friends!We chose CEFA because they offer a curriculum program and not just play. Even though Elise has lots of play and exploration in her day, she also is learning to read, and to write, and she is loving the STEM curriculum.
The teachers are so warm, caring and welcoming, and really take a genuine interest in our daughter and our family. Daylene, the Principal, is always smiling and greeting students and parents in the morning – it’s such a great way to start the day!
Breakfast, lunch and afternoon snacks are provided by their in-house chef who creates nutritious delicious meals all prepared according to the Canadian food guide, so I have no worries about her nutrition and I especially love that I don’t need to prepare anything for the day – CEFA takes care of everything, which means I have more time to spend with my daughter. Plus, she enjoys the meals so much that I’ve even asked for some recipes to make at home.
I love that I never have to worry about what Elise wears in the morning as she wears a uniform. I drop her off at school with the confidence that she will have a wonderful day and I never need to worry about her wellbeing while at work. She loves school so much that she doesn’t want to come home when I go to pick her up at the end of the day. I couldn’t ask for anything more – CEFA definitely exceeds my expectations!
Nagisa Hasegawa
Mother of Elise (JK1)
As her parents, we listened with much pride, joy and gratitude as our daughter Noelie recited the poem “An Epitome of the Triad” by Cleo Victoria Stewart at cefa’s Holiday Event on December 16, 2001. Her ability to read the poem off the sheet that her Stage 3 teacher, Miss Forsythe was holding, was definitely a culmination of everyone’s hard work, working in tandem, just like the poem Noelie read “Day after day the teacher toiled/ With a touch that was deft and sure./ While the parent labored in support/ And polished and smoothed it o’er.”
We feel blessed to have been able to give Noelie the opportunity to learn at cefa since she was 21 months old, from Stage 1 and through to Stage 2 and 3, and thankful to the teachers for their dedication and hard work. Her acceptance into York House for kindergarten is proof once again of the high educational standards cefa has as a preparatory preschool.
We look forward to her graduation from cefa with bittersweet joy and appreciative of the joy for learning now instilled in our daughter.
We feel blessed to have been able to give Noelie the opportunity to learn at cefa since she was 21 months old, from Stage 1 and through to Stage 2 and 3, and thankful to the teachers for their dedication and hard work. Her acceptance into York House for kindergarten is proof once again of the high educational standards cefa has as a preparatory preschool.
We look forward to her graduation from cefa with bittersweet joy and appreciative of the joy for learning now instilled in our daughter.
Alisa and Darren Darcy
Parents of Noelie
In the two months he’s been at Cefa, Matthew’s progress has surprised us. We are especially surprised by our toddler suddenly developing into an independent, interactive little two-year-old who talks cheerfully and cogently about his day at school, bursts into little songs and stories he’s learnt in the classroom and who has learnt to reason for himself. Some days ago he told mummy that he went to big boy school where no mummies were allowed because big boys did not need their mummies to help them do many things.
On the personal front, he has (it seems) almost overnight acquired a steady potty-going habit and a marked improvement in his self-feeding (no doubt encouraged by the cleverly child-friendly, enticing food prepared by the chef).
Although we were apprehensive at first about leaving our little boy in the hands of strangers for the better part of the day, and although it was really hard in the first few weeks to separate from an anxious toddler who had never been away from mummy before, we now take him to Cefa these days quite comfortable in the knowledge that his physical needs are taken care of, his emotions considered and his intellect encouraged.
We are also encouraged by the strong parent involvement in the school with parents contacting each other regularly to participate in field trips and other miscellaneous activities which really help to form a sense of community and involvement.
We thank you and all the teachers at Cefa for making Matthew’s first foray into schooling a fun, stimulating and nurturing one.
On the personal front, he has (it seems) almost overnight acquired a steady potty-going habit and a marked improvement in his self-feeding (no doubt encouraged by the cleverly child-friendly, enticing food prepared by the chef).
Although we were apprehensive at first about leaving our little boy in the hands of strangers for the better part of the day, and although it was really hard in the first few weeks to separate from an anxious toddler who had never been away from mummy before, we now take him to Cefa these days quite comfortable in the knowledge that his physical needs are taken care of, his emotions considered and his intellect encouraged.
We are also encouraged by the strong parent involvement in the school with parents contacting each other regularly to participate in field trips and other miscellaneous activities which really help to form a sense of community and involvement.
We thank you and all the teachers at Cefa for making Matthew’s first foray into schooling a fun, stimulating and nurturing one.
Rachelle and David Lau
Parents of Matthew
We are writing this letter to tell you how pleased we are that Eliscia is attending CEFA and to thank you for managing such a well organized and stimulating school. We have been very impressed with the quality of your teaching staff and couldn’t be happier with the choice we made to place Eliscia at your school.
Over the last nine months at CEFA, we have observed teachers excited about teaching and Eliscia having fun learning. You and your teachers have created a warm and supportive educational environment for our daughter and for that we are truly grateful.
A great big thank you to the teachers of Junior Kindergarten One – Mrs. Morris, Ms. Senang, Ms. Garania and Ms. Do – for teaching and respecting our daughter. You have all made and are continuing to make a positive mark on Eliscia’s personality and intellectual growth.
Over the last nine months at CEFA, we have observed teachers excited about teaching and Eliscia having fun learning. You and your teachers have created a warm and supportive educational environment for our daughter and for that we are truly grateful.
A great big thank you to the teachers of Junior Kindergarten One – Mrs. Morris, Ms. Senang, Ms. Garania and Ms. Do – for teaching and respecting our daughter. You have all made and are continuing to make a positive mark on Eliscia’s personality and intellectual growth.
Shaun and Karen Sinclair
Parents of Eliscia
This is your franchise opportunity
We are looking for Franchise Partners to open private schools for children all across Canada. If you love being around children and families, know the value of education, and believe in developing children academically, socially and physically, talk to us about owning a CEFA Early Learning School Franchise. Take a look at our Available Opportunities.
