Primary Years Programme (PYP)

PYP Wheel

Figure 1: IB PYP Curriculum Model

Discovery College is committed to the Primary Years Programme (PYP) – an internationally devised programme administered by the International Baccalaureate Organisation (IBO). The Primary Years Programme offers an inquiry-based, transdisciplinary curriculum framework that builds conceptual understanding. It is a student-centred approach to education for children aged 3 – 12 focusing on the total growth of the developing child, encompassing social, physical, emotional and cultural needs, in addition to academic welfare.

Students in the 21st century are faced with the challenge of learning about an interconnected world where knowledge is constantly developing. The PYP prepares students to be active participants in a lifelong journey of learning and focuses on the development of the child as an inquirer, both in the classroom and in the world outside. 

Curriculum Framework

At the centre of all IB programmes lies the Learner Profile – attributes we wish all IB students develop in order to make this world a better place. 

IB Learner Profile

Learning is designed under the umbrella of six transdisciplinary themes (four in Year 1) which are designed to have enduring value, regardless of geography or background of IB World Schools and students:-

Teachers design a comprehensive programme of inquiry through the transdisciplinary themes, providing opportunities for students to explore ‘big ideas’ of global significance through engaging, relevant, challenging and significant learning experiences.

The themes are supported by six subjects:-

  • Language
  • Mathematics
  • Science
  • Social studies
  • Personal, social and physical education
  • Arts 

Together, the six themes and six subjects develop:-

  • knowledge
  • conceptual understandings
  • approaches to learning – skills
  • learner profile attributes
  • action

With a focus on student-driven inquiry and conceptual understanding, as opposed to curricula that over-emphasise content and teacher-focused instruction, the PYP framework offers children a unique opportunity to be active participants in their learning. Throughout each unit, students are guided and encouraged to link their learning to real-life issues through deciding on a form of action they will take to make a difference in the world. As Year 6 students reach the end of their PYP journey, they undertake an extended, culminating project, The Exhibition, that requires them to synthesise their learning and present it to the community.

Programme of Inquiry

This promises to be another exciting year in the primary school. Please download a copy of our Programme of Inquiry to find out what is in store for all the year levels. 

DC PYP Programme of Inquiry 2023-24

Further Information

For further information about the PYP, please read the following IB documents:

The IB Primary Years Programme

Parent Pack – FAQs about the PYP

5 Ways You Could Support Your Child as a PYP Parent

Contact

Louise Mills, PYP Coordinator   millsl3@dc.edu.hk