Bogaerts International School

PYP Curriculum: Subjects & Learning Approach

Gloria Harrison
October 13, 2025

The Primary Years Programme (PYP) of the International Baccalaureate (IB) is designed for students aged 3 to 12 years old.
It encourages children to become curious, confident, and lifelong learners by developing both academic knowledge and essential life skills through inquiry and reflection.

A Student-Centered Pedagogy: Inquiry-Based Learning

At the heart of the PYP curriculum lies inquiry-based learning — a teaching approach that invites children to ask questions, explore ideas, and find answers through discovery.

Rather than memorizing facts, students actively construct their own understanding with guidance from their teachers, who act as facilitators and mentors.

This approach helps students develop:

  • Curiosity and a genuine love of learning
  • Critical and creative thinking skills
  • Collaboration and communication abilities
  • Confidence, independence, and responsibility for their own learning

PYP Subjects and Areas of Learning

The PYP curriculum is transdisciplinary, meaning it integrates traditional subjects into real-world themes that connect knowledge across disciplines.

🌍 Language and Literacy

Students learn to read, write, and communicate effectively in one or more languages.
Goal: to nurture thoughtful communicators who can express themselves clearly and appreciate cultural diversity.

🔢 Mathematics

Mathematical concepts are explored through everyday contexts and hands-on inquiry.
Goal: to build logical reasoning, problem-solving, and the ability to understand patterns in the world.

🔬 Science

Students investigate the natural and technological world through experiments and observation.
Goal: to develop curiosity about how things work and apply scientific thinking to everyday life.

🌎 Social Studies

Exploration of human societies, cultures, and environments.
Goal: to help students understand global connections and their role as responsible citizens of the world.

🎨 Arts

Creative expression through visual arts, music, drama, and movement.
Goal: to inspire imagination, innovation, and emotional intelligence.

🏃 Physical, Social & Personal Education (PSPE)

Focus on physical health, well-being, and emotional growth.
Goal: to foster balance, resilience, and teamwork.

How the PYP Curriculum Works

Learning in the PYP revolves around six transdisciplinary themes such as Who We Are, Where We Are in Place and Time, and How the World Works.
Each theme combines several subjects, allowing students to explore real-life issues from multiple perspectives.

Assessments in the PYP are formative and reflective — they value process over memorization and help each child grow at their own pace.

Why Choose the IB PYP at BiSchool?

  • A bilingual and international environment that nurtures global citizens
  • A safe, stimulating setting that celebrates curiosity and creativity
  • A curriculum aligned with the highest international standards of education

At BiSchool, we believe that learning is a journey — one that begins with wonder and grows with inquiry.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What ages does the PYP cover?
The Primary Years Programme (PYP) is designed for children aged 3 to 12 years old.

How is the PYP different from traditional primary education?
The PYP emphasizes understanding and inquiry rather than rote learning. Students explore why and how things happen instead of simply memorizing facts.

Does the PYP prepare students for future academic success?
Absolutely. The PYP builds essential skills — critical thinking, communication, and collaboration — that form a solid foundation for the Middle Years Programme (MYP) and beyond.

Is the PYP suitable for bilingual or multilingual learners?
Yes. The programme supports language development and cultural understanding, making it ideal for bilingual families and international communities.

Ready to Join the BiSchool PYP?

Give your child the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive in an inspiring environment.