The Philosophy

The Primary Years Program (PYP) for students aged 3 to 12, focuses on the development of the whole child, in the classroom but also in the world outside, through other environments where children learn. It offers a framework that meets children's several needs: academic, social, physical, emotional and cultural. It serves as an excellent introduction to the Middle Years Program; neither is a prerequisite for the Diploma Program.The PYP defines the characteristics of students who are aware of and sensitive to the experiences of others; taken together, these create a profile of the PYP student which helps teachers and students to establish goals, plan units of inquiry, and assess performance.

The Student Profile

Inquirers: The students' natural curiosity has been nurtured. They have acquired the skills necessary to conduct purposeful, constructive research. They actively enjoy learning, and their love of learning will be sustained throughout their lives.

Thinkers: The students exercise initiative in applying thinking skills critically and creatively to make sound decisions and to solve complex problems.

Communicators: They receive and express ideas and information confidently in more than one language, including the language of mathematical symbols.

Risk-takers: They approach unfamiliar situations without anxiety and have the confidence and independence of spirit to explore new roles, ideas and strategies. They are courageous and articulate in defending those things in which they believe.

Knowledgeable: They have spent time in school exploring themes which have global relevance and importance. In doing so, they have acquired a critical mass of significant knowledge.

Principled: They have a sound grasp of the principles of moral reasoning. They have integrity, honesty and a sense of fairness and justice.

Caring: They show sensitivity towards the needs and feelings of others. They have a sense of personal commitment to action and service.

Open-minded: They respect the views, values and traditions of other individuals and cultures, and they are accustomed to seeking and considering a range of points of view. Well-balanced: They understand the importance of physical and mental balance and personal well-being.

Reflective: They give thoughtful consideration to their own learning and analyze their personal strengths and weaknesses in a constructive manner.

An International Perspective

In every aspect of school life, the PYP seeks to give students an appreciation of the perspectives of people from other cultures, regions and nations. The units of inquiry use resources and examples from a variety of cultures. Teachers encourage students to recognize that for any question or issue there are different points of view. In addition, all students begin studying a second language in Kindergarten. Children learn to communicate in another language and also gain an understanding of the cultures in which the language is spoken.