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The Primary Years Programme (PYP) focuses on the development of the whole child as an inquirer, both in the classroom and in the world outside. It provides an educational framework that develops an understanding of concepts, skills and knowledge, that strives to develop positive and responsible attitudes and that encourages action. As part of the IB’s continuum of international education, the PYP prepares students for the Middle Years Programme (MYP).
The Programme:
- Provides learning opportunities that are authentic, engaging, relevant, challenging and significant.
- Develops learning through inquiry, a process initiated by the students or the teacher that moves the students from their current level of understanding to a new and deeper level of understanding.
- Introduces and develops international-mindedness in students, starting with a foundation in their own language and culture.
- Develops a positive attitude to learning that provides a solid foundation for future learning.
- Emphasises the development of the whole student – physically, intellectually, emotionally and ethically
The Curriculum
The Primary Years Programme provides a framework for the written, taught and assessed curriculum, which is coherent, connected and relevant. It is a transdisciplinary model where learning is not confined to distinct and separate subjects. Rather, skills and knowledge from the various subjects are taught within the context of the Units of Inquiry, developed around the six transdisciplinary themes.
Within the PYP:
- A carefully planned curriculum overview is followed, which links to the National Curriculum.
- All subject disciplines are taught.
- Students apply their understanding in meaningful ways through Inquiry.
- Assessment is an important part of each Unit of Inquiry and occurs in a variety of ways.
- The assessed curriculum provides data on the learning and is integral to the teaching and learningprogramme. There is a focus on both the learning process and the learning outcomes.
Students construct meaning through:
- development of skills
- applying attitudes
- understanding of concepts
- taking action
Assessment
Assessment is an important part of each Unit of Inquiry, with each student’s attainment being assessed against specific criteria rather than against individuals in the class. Assessment is recorded and reported on through interviews, portfolios, learning journeys and school semester reports.
Questions
1. How do children entering part-way through primary school adapt to the Inquiry model of learning?
Entry points for Junior School are Years 3 and 5. Students and parents are guided and supported in adapting to the Inquiry Model.
2. What does the PYP offer?
The Primary Years Programme offers students the opportunity to lay a foundation of learning, attitudes and attributes upon which knowledge, understanding and international-mindedness will flourish.
3. How will I know how my child is progressing?
A comprehensive assessment, recording and reporting programme provides information to parents and students with regard to progress.
General Regulations: Primary Years Programme
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