A Beginners Look at Primary Years Program for Expats

You may have already heard of Primary Years Programme (PYP) in passing if you’ve started looking a while back. Perhaps it’s the first time you’ve heard it. If you’re an expat in Singapore looking for an international school for your child, then considering a good international baccalaureate Singapore school with PYP is essential.

PYP is the first curriculum framework for international primary schools and is designed for learners ages three to ten, translating to grades preschool through five. With it, both the curriculum and teaching are directed in developing the intellectual, physical and emotional potential of every child, all in a safe and exciting environment.

Here’s a quick summary of the things students and parents can expect for PYP:

International perspective

As the driving force behind the PYP program, it encompasses the philosophy of international-mindedness. The IB’s mission statement endeavours to nurture young people who understand that they are global citizens that will be motivated to create changes to and in the world.

Integrated learning

The subject areas of maths, science, language, social studies, the arts, information technology, physical education and library are imparted through transdisciplinary methods to assist students in making connections between the subjects and real-life applications, thereby enabling effective learning.

Individualised approach

Teaching and Learning are personalized for every student. Students are also asked to create connections between their life in school, life at home as well as life in the world. These connections allow the development of the attitudes and aptitudes that add to international-mindedness.

The PYP nurtures the development of thinking, socializing, communication, research and self-management skills. Every student is encouraged to apply what they learned into practice through their home, service to the school community, the local community as well as the global community. ​

Concept-based learning

The world is changing, which means knowledge is changing. The capacity to view the world with a more flexible mind taught and will be invaluable in the future. Concept based imparts learning of big transferable ideas for any time, place, or situation. 

Content just focuses on facts while concept as taught via the PYP program focuses on making sense of those facts and the world. It paves the way to organize and make sense of learning.  Concept-based learning via PYP translates to a framework to study everything.

If you’re still unsure whether it’s the right choice for your child, note that PYP is taught in over 109 countries around the world, the PYP curriculum framework is uniquely adaptable to state and national standards. This makes schools such as Global Indian International School (GIIS) who offers international baccalaureate Singapore a great choice for your child and your family especially if you’re an expat here.

As you look for the right school, it’s wise to choose one that combines modern teaching through technologies with holistic education approaches. Visit parent or school forums to glean ideas from parents and do try to visit the school you’re eyeing to know the updated offered programs, fees, and to get real a feel of the environment itself. Best of luck!