Primary School

International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (PYP)

The Primary School division educates children from 1st to 5th Grade.

At this stage, Primary School educators support the continued development of skills and attitudes through a broad programme of subjects.

PYP Framework

Motivating and participatory learning environment

Our aim for Primary learners is to: strengthen their understanding of subject knowledge through enquiry-based learning, build discipline in the learning process, and support their achievement of unit objectives, as outlined in the PY course framework. We also aim to ensure the Primary Years education that we offer forms a solid educational foundation to effectively prepare our students for academic excellence in their future studies.

We promote active learning in a motivating and participatory learning environment. Primary School students are guided towards understanding via various methods and processes in each subject, especially in STEAM. Children at this level develop social skills, research abilities, and the ability to reflect while also exploring their creativity, all of which are factors that may positively influence development.

IBO Primary Years Programme (PYP)

Bilingual curriculum

Primary Years staff aim to develop good study habits and encourage the competency of innovative digital and physical learning tools. Computer technology facilitates learning in all subject areas in the PYP and is especially effective when demonstrating complex concepts in an engaging manner.

Throughout Primary education, we provide a bilingual curriculum, whereby 80% of classes are conducted in English. The IBO Primary Years Programme (PYP) seeks to develop skills across six units of enquiry, all of which are delivered through subjects that culminate in transdisciplinary projects.

Throughout the PY course, learners explore the following transdisciplinary themes:

Who are we?
Where are we in time and space?
How do we express ourselves?

How does the world work?
How do we organise ourselves?
How do we share the planet?

Methodology

Cycles of enquiry

In each unit, a ‘cycles of enquiry’ methodology is employed. Students are encouraged to ask questions to aid their understanding and guide further research. This process focuses on the development of critical thinking skills, as well as the acquisition of information and knowledge. This methodology promotes an active and participatory learning style, which encourages the autonomy of learners within a nurturing environment of mutual respect.

At the end of their Primary education, students present the ideas and principles they have learned in the PYP Exhibition. Project work is displayed, and parents and other students may see the result of their efforts.

Primary Years teachers plan lessons based on the learning objectives outlined in the PYP framework. Daily learning is delivered in manageable, varied and engaging tasks to ensure understanding across curriculum subjects. The school day is divided into classes and break times: each lesson covers a different topic. However, there is often an overlap of themes in the unit. Primary Years subjects include Visual, Performing & Musical Arts, Physical Education, Mathematics, Science, Information Technology, Humanities, and Library sessions.

Skills Development and Talent Programme

Workshop

Once a week, 1st and 2nd Grade students may attend a skills development workshop every two months. Primary pupils may develop their knowledge in a specific area during this time. As they progress through the school, 3rd to 5th Grade students may partake in the Talent Programme, which allows them to participate in a chosen activity for three years. The Talent Programme aims to give students the time and space necessary to hone their talents and skills.

Primary students may participate in after-school cultural, sports and musical clubs. These clubs are optional with many exciting activities to choose from.

House System

Gamma, Sigma, Delta and Omega

The school has a House System, whereby students are allocated to a School House upon enrolment. The four Houses are Gamma, Sigma, Delta and Omega. A Captain and Vice-Captain are chosen by the student body to represent each House. House leaders are responsible for orienting their fellow House members towards a common goal at sports events, academic pursuits, artistic and cultural activities, and social gatherings.

The House system aims to develop a sense of belonging to a larger group, comradery among learners at different levels, integrity in competitive events, healthy competition and identity as part of the school community.

Library

Each week, the Library welcomes children from the Early and Primary Years. Library activities are scheduled into weekly timetables and encourage reading and research skills. Young readers may also use this time to select books to take home and continue reading with their families.

Nutrition Programme

As part of the pedagogical approach in Primary education, we aim to promote healthy eating habits. Our Nutrition Programme increases awareness of a balanced diet for healthy growth and emphasises the importance of sharing mealtime with others, demonstrating good table manners and developing positive eating habits.

Social Action Programme

Our Social Action Programme (SAP) enables students from 4th Grade upwards to undertake social work in the local community bi-monthly. Contribution to the community encourages the development of empathy, solidarity and social awareness, all of which are qualities we wish to instil in growing individuals.