Primary Years Programme (PYP)
Primary Years Programme (PYP)
Primary Years Programme (PYP)
Ages 6–10
At ISB, we follow the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP), a globally recognized curriculum designed to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and independent learning skills.
Our inquiry-based approach encourages students to explore, ask questions, and make real-world connections, preparing them for a lifetime of success.
International School Brescia has been authorized to deliver the IB Primary Years Programme since 2012.
The PYP at ISB begins with the Early Years Programme, which includes Kindergarten 1, Kindergarten 2, and the Transition year (ages 3 to 6). These early learning years are tailored to the developmental needs of young children, with a strong emphasis on play-based inquiry, social-emotional growth, and foundational learning experiences that spark curiosity and build confidence.
After PYP 5, students smoothly transition to the Middle Years Programme (MYP 1), equivalent to 1° anno Scuola Secondaria di Primo Grado (Scuola Media), ensuring academic continuity and growth.
How ISB’s PYP Matches Italian and U.S. Grades
The PYP structure at ISB is compatible with both the Italian and American education systems, offering clear grade-level equivalencies for families transitioning between systems:
| ISB GRADE | AGE | EQUIVALENT IN THE ITALIAN SYSTEM | EQUIVALENT IN THE USA SYSTEM |
|---|---|---|---|
| PYP 1 | 6 | 1° anno Scuola Primaria / Scuola elementare / Elementari | Grade 1 |
| PYP 2 | 7 | 2° anno Scuola Primaria / Scuola elementare / Elementari | Grade 2 |
| PYP 3 | 8 | 3° anno Scuola Primaria / Scuola elementare / Elementari | Grade 3 |
| PYP 4 | 9 | 4° anno Scuola Primaria / Scuola elementare / Elementari | Grade 4 |
| PYP 5 (Exhibition Year) | 10 | 5° anno Scuola Primaria / Scuola elementare / Elementari | Grade 5 |
What Do Students Learn in the PYP?
The Primary Years Programme (PYP) at ISB is built around six transdisciplinary themes, which connect different subject areas and help students make sense of the world. Instead of learning subjects in isolation, children explore real-world topics that encourage critical thinking, inquiry, and global awareness.
Students develop skills and knowledge through:
- Language (English & Italian): Literacy, communication, and multilingual proficiency.
- Mathematics: Logical reasoning, problem-solving, and real-life applications.
- Science: Investigating natural and physical phenomena through inquiry.
- Social Studies: Understanding human societies, cultures, and global connections.
- Arts: Expressing creativity through visual arts, music, and drama.
- Physical, Social & Personal Education (PSPE): Well-being, teamwork, and emotional growth.
The Six Transdisciplinary Themes
Learning is guided by six big-picture themes that help children make connections across different subjects
- Who we are: Exploring identity, relationships, and well-being.
- Where we are in place and time: Understanding history, geography, and how societies evolve.
- How we express ourselves: Communicating through language, arts, and culture.
- How the world works: Investigating science, technology, and the environment.
- How we organize ourselves: Learning about human systems, economies, and societies.
- Sharing the planet: Examining sustainability, global challenges, and responsibility.
This approach ensures that students develop knowledge, skills, and attitudes that prepare them not only for the next stage of education but for a lifetime of learning.
How Do Students Learn?
The PYP follows an inquiry-based, student-centered approach, meaning students ask questions, explore solutions, and take an active role in their learning. Lessons are:
- Concept-Driven: Focused on “big ideas” rather than just facts.
- Interdisciplinary: Subjects are connected, making learning more meaningful.
- Action-Oriented: Encouraging students to apply what they learn to real-life situations.
Why the IB at ISB Prepares Your Child for the Future
For parents new to the IB, it’s reassuring to know that our programme offers a robust academic foundation with a distinctly international outlook. While we value the local context, especially through our Italian language programme, our curriculum prioritises global understanding, critical thinking, and personal growth over rote memorisation.
Unlike traditional systems that focus heavily on textbooks and exams, the IB framework is designed to:
- Encourage Curiosity: Children learn through exploration and hands-on experiences.
- Develop Critical Thinking: Students ask questions, solve problems, and connect learning to the real world.
- Build Confidence & Independence: By taking an active role in their learning, students develop a sense of responsibility and leadership.
- Prepare for a Global Future: The IB is recognized worldwide, ensuring a seamless transition to schools and universities across the globe.
The International School Brescia: Bringing the IB to Life
At International School Brescia (ISB), we provide a world-class, English-speaking education for students from ages 3 to 18. As an IB World School, we offer the full International Baccalaureate (IB) continuum, starting with the Primary Years Programme (PYP), continuing through the Middle Years Programme (MYP), and culminating in the IB Diploma Programme (DP).
Located in Bedizzole, near Brescia, ISB is home to a diverse community of students and teachers from over 24 nationalities. Our approach goes beyond academics, we focus on developing confident, open-minded, and globally aware individuals who are prepared for success in school and beyond.
Why families choose ISB:
- Internationally recognized IB curriculum
- English immersion with strong Italian language support
- Safe, inclusive, and multicultural environment
- Modern facilities & innovative teaching methods
A Seamless Journey: From PYP to Middle & Diploma Programmes
At the International School Brescia, your child’s education doesn’t stop with the Primary Years Programme (PYP), it seamlessly continues through the Middle Years Programme (MYP) (ages 11-16) and the IB Diploma Programme (DP) (ages 16-18). This IB Continuum ensures a smooth transition between stages, keeping students engaged and academically challenged at every level.
How Does the PYP Prepare Students for MYP & DP?
The skills and mindset developed in the PYP lay a strong foundation for success in later years:
- Critical Thinking & Inquiry: Building strong problem-solving skills.
- Independent Learning: Encouraging responsibility and self-motivation.
- Global Perspective: Strengthening communication and adaptability.
A Cohesive Learning Experience
Unlike schools where students face a dramatic shift in teaching methods as they grow, ISB’s IB Continuum ensures consistency in learning approaches, values, and expectations. This means:
- No sudden changes in learning style: students continue to build on the inquiry-based model.
- A supportive environment: our teachers guide students at every step, ensuring they are prepared and confident as they progress.
Why Choose Our Primary?
Personalised Learning
Teachers support every child’s individual needs, fostering both academic progress and personal growth.
International Outlook
Proven IB Pathway
The PYP builds the skills and mindset for success in the MYP and IB Diploma, ensuring a seamless and consistent learning journey.
Rachel Bestow
Head Of School
Rachel Bestow
Head of School
"
Our nurturing and experienced team of international teachers provide enriching and stimulating learning experiences, guiding our young students to reflect on their learning and the world around them.
I look forward to welcoming you and your family to visit us, discover more about ISB and become part of our community.
"
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Services at the Primary
Focus of Individual Learning
International Community
IB Curriculum
Student Wellbeing
Outdoor Learning
English & Italian
