superficial, thin curriculum experience. The
conceptual approach to teaching and learning
PYP framework provides for transdisciplinary
adds considerable academic rigour across
learning in which the subjects are
the grades, from Reception to Year 6,
integrated wherever possible, providing
and contributes much to the realisation of
deep, connected learning that reflects the
education for life.
connectedness of the real world. Especially in an era of curriculum crowding, such an approach is both meaningful and efficient. The PYP emphasises big ideas of universal applicability.
The PYP provides a powerful common language about teaching and learning. The language of learning in a PYP school is consistent across the grades and across the curriculum. The same language is
The big ideas of the PYP are its eight Key
used by Form teachers and by specialist
Concepts; form, function, causation, change,
subject teachers in Art, Music, PE and
connection, perspective, responsibility
Sport, Religious Studies, Japanese and so
and reflection. These concepts drive the
on; and it is used across the age spectrum
learning in the PYP, providing the impetus
from Reception to Year 6. Such consistency
to look beyond the subject-specific content
strengthens the message and helps the boys
of the curriculum into these big ideas
to not only learn about the content of their
of universal applicability. This helps to
subjects at school but about themselves as
open up the learning to the consideration
learners. This is powerful.
of wider possibilities in an academically challenging way. Often, in a PYP curriculum,
learners and on learning. Put simply, part of this research, conducted in Australia, reveals that students in PYP schools generally achieve better academic results than students in non-PYP schools. This would seem to be a compelling rationale for PYP implementation in its own right. In accordance with the Headmaster’s Vision 15+, the Prep School strives for continual improvement in the education of its boys. The PYP is being implemented as a powerful, concerted means of achieving this vision, especially with regard to the internationalisation of our programs and the sharpening of our academic focus in the School. The incremental implementation of the PYP continues, in a way that is unique to Churchie, honouring and enhancing the School’s culture and traditions, and preparing our boys for a bright future.
Students in PYP schools typically
transdisciplinary connections are made by
achieve better results.
way of the exploration of deep concepts
There is a burgeoning research-base
within and between disciplines. Such a
concerning the PYP and its impact on
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