The International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program (IB PYP) is an international curriculum framework, a philosophy and a way of teaching, developed by the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO). The IB PYP is designed for all students in the Primary grades. It is unique in that its focus is on the development of the whole child, affecting hearts as well as minds, while addressing social, physical, emotional and cultural needs in addition to academics. IB PYP schools ultimately promote creating citizens who are well balanced individuals.
The program is very different from the educational programs that have been traditionally offered by schools. Rather than dividing up work by subjects, the curriculum is divided into six themes, which may span several subject areas. The themes include: Who we are; Where we are in place and time; How we express ourselves; How the world works; How we organize ourselves; and Sharing the planet. The themes encourage students to think broadly as well as deeply, while ensuring a solid foundation in all of the major areas of knowledge conventionally covered.
PYP Learner Profiles
The PYP Learner Profile is central to student learning. The attributes of the Learner Profile are appropriate and achievable for all students, no matter their age, ability or culture. The PYP Learner Profile allows students to develop as:
- Inquirers
- Knowledgeable
- Thinkers
- Communicators
- Principled
- Open-minded
- Caring
- Risk-takers
- Balance
- Reflective
International Baccalaureate schools exist in every country throughout the world, with South Australia being one of the largest growing and most concentrated areas.