Ages 4 to 12

PYP stands for Primary Years program and is one of the three programs offered by the IB organization. The PYP focuses on the growth and development of the whole child. This means that importance is placed on the physical, emotional, social and cultural needs of the child in a safe and secure academic environment. It is an International programme that has been built on best practices that offers a challenging and engaging curriculum for children.

The students in the PYP programme are taught to ask challenging questions, critically reflect, develop research skills, learn how to learn, and participate in their community. Teachers work with students through guided inquiry to help them understand the connections and take responsibility towards with what they are learning.

Who we are

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.

How we express ourselves

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.

Where we are in place and time

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.

How the world works

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 understandings of scientific principles; the impact of scientific and technological advances on society and on the environment.

How we organize ourselves

An inquiry into the interconnectedness of human-made systems and communities; the structure and function of organizations; societal decision-making; economic activities ad their impact on humankind and the environment.

Sharing the planet

An inquiry into the 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.

Each transdisciplinary theme is valued because of its global significance. Each theme is also supported by the five essential elements of the Primary Years Programme:

• Knowledge
• Concepts
• Attitudes
• Skills
• Action

These five essential elements are the heart of the Primary Years Programme and are used to guide our planning, teaching, and assessment practices.

CISH sponsors information sessions for parents throughout the year about the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP). Some sessions will be offered during the school day and others in the evening or after school.  Parents are welcome and encouraged to attend these sessions as an understanding of the Primary Years Programme will enable them to support the Units of Inquiry and help their child develop the five elements essential to the programme. Information about these sessions will be on the school website as well as sent home through various means, electronic and otherwise.