Primary School

Primary School (Pre-kindergarten through Grade 5)

The heart of the Primary Years Program (PYP) is structured inquiry, the best tool for exploring and studying mathematics; science and technology; languages; social studies; arts; and personal, social, and physical education.

In working out answers, children build skills such as reading, reasoning, researching, and communicating. Sensitive to the age appropriateness of tasks and activities in class, teachers work to ensure that children develop these skills while gaining self-confidence and independence. Teachers are encouraged to teach for a depth of understanding and students are enabled to become independent and lifelong learners.

Along with strong academics, WIS concentrates on developing the whole child. The PYP promotes positive attitudes and good character. We emphasize traits such as respect, tolerance, integrity, and confidence and encourage students to reflect, choose wisely, and act responsibly with other children and their teachers, as well as in the wider community.

As a culminating and collaborative activity of the PYP, Grade 5 students design and execute a whole-class project, including written work, oral presentations, technology, and art performances and projects. The Exhibition challenges students to analyze and propose solutions to real-world issues, drawing from what they have learned during their PYP years.