The Primary Years Program (PYP) is designed as a framework based on six globally significant themes. Through these themes, students explore and investigate the world around them in local and global contexts. In the first years students explore 4 themes per year, and in the primary years, all six themes are covered.
An inquiry into the nature of the self; beliefs and values; personal, physical, mental, social and spiritual health; human relationships including families, friends, communities, and cultures; rights and responsibilities; what it means to be human
An inquiry into the ways in which we discover and express ideas, feelings, nature, culture, beliefs and values; the ways in which we reflect on, extend and enjoy our creativity; our appreciation of the aesthetic.
An inquiry into orientation in place and time; personal histories; homes and journeys; the discoveries, explorations and migrations of humankind; the relationships between and the interconnectedness of individuals and civilizations, from local and global perspectives
An inquiry into the natural world and its laws; the interaction between the natural world (physical and biological) and human societies; how humans use their understanding of scientific principles; the impact of scientific and technological advances on society and on the environment
An inquiry into the interconnectedness of human-made systems and communities; the structure and function of organizations; societal decision-making; economic activities and their impact on humankind and the environment
An inquiry into rights and responsibilities in the struggle to share finite resources with other people and with other living things; communities and the relationships within and between them; access to equal opportunities; peace and conflict resolution
PYP educators design inquiry-based learning experiences that encourage students to reflect on concepts, develop their self-management skills (self-regulation), improve their social skills, learn a range of research skills, and use and develop communication skills (written, oral, and nonverbal).
The program is transdisciplinary, and subjects come together to make sense of the world.
Educators are supported by the PYP coordinator to ensure that this guidance is put in place.
At the end of their journey, PY5 students complete an exhibition. It is a unit of inquiry designed by students. They plan the unit using an IB framework, develop the unit, research and investigate, present their findings, and take action. It is a collaborative project that involves the entire community and demonstrates the journey made by the students and their ability to bring together all their learnings and skills in an exhibition.
To find out more about PYP, check out the IB website by clicking here
The International Baccalaureate (IB) is a globally renowned approach to education, with over 5000 schools worldwide following the different programs.
The IB outlines programmes for different age groups, designed to foster global citizens, lifelong learners who are able to challenge themselves to achieve high academic standards.
IB programmes are designed for international families, so that when they move from one country to another, they can find a similar approach to education and similar values towards lifelong learning. They are also programs that allow local families to choose an education that goes beyond the national curriculum and to consider global perspectives.
The first IB programme is the PRIMARY YEARS PROGRAMME (PYP) which starts from 3 to 11 years old. Its approach is transdisciplinary and allows students to deal with concepts that cut across different subjects and make connections with the world around them. The IB provides a guide for parents which can be downloaded here
We are an authorized PYP school.
The MIDDLE-YEAR PROGRAMME (MYP), aimed at students aged 11-16, explores a wide range of content through inquiry and concept-based learning, concluding with E-Assessments, in which students demonstrate their understanding through interactive online assessment tools. To learn more about MYP parents can find the guide here
We will apply for MYP candidacy.
From ages 16 to 18, students pursue the IB Diploma, studying six subjects, engaging in community service, completing the Theory of Knowledge course, and writing a 4,000-word Extended Essay on a chosen topic. The Diploma Programme is the golden passepartout to the best universities in the world. The IB Parent Information pack can be found here
We will apply for DP candidacy.
Being an IB World School allows GIS to be part of a global community of families, students and educators. Each of the IB programmes whilst unique, share some commonalities to allow students and families to transition from one programme to the next. So what are these commonalities?
The IB Student Profile
International Mindedness
Inquiry-based learning
Concept-based learning
Approaches to learning
Action
