Learning in Primary at OIA

What is the PYP?

A framework for curious, connected and meaningful learning

The Primary Years Programme (PYP) is the International Baccalaureate framework for children aged 4 to 11. It helps young learners grow in curiosity, confidence and understanding by connecting subject learning with inquiry, reflection and real-world meaning.

At OIA Primary, this fits naturally with the kind of learning we value: warm, purposeful and thoughtfully challenging. The PYP helps children build strong foundations in language, literacy and numeracy, while also developing independence, collaboration and a growing sense of responsibility.

How students learn in the Primary years

Curiosity, connection and inquiry

In Primary, learning begins with curiosity. Young children learn best when they feel safe, known and actively involved. At OIA Primary, they learn through doing, talking, exploring and reflecting.

In the Early Years, a carefully prepared environment supports choice, interaction and growing independence. As children move through Primary, learning becomes more structured. They deepen their thinking, grow in independence and take increasing responsibility for their learning.

Transdisciplinary inquiry and subject learning

Building strong foundations in connected ways

A distinctive feature of the Primary Years Programme (PYP) is that learning is not only organised through separate subjects. Students also learn across subject boundaries through units of inquiry shaped by meaningful questions and big ideas.

This helps students build understanding that is connected, purposeful and relevant, while developing strong foundations in key subject areas.

Concepts, voice and agency

Developing confidence and ownership

Students are encouraged to explore ideas, ask questions and gradually take ownership of their learning in age-appropriate ways.

In Primary, agency does not mean learning without structure. It means students developing voice, confidence and independence within a carefully guided and supportive environment.

Learner Profile and Approaches to Learning

Growing through everyday learning

At OIA Primary, students develop the shared OIA learner profile through inquiry, play, collaboration and reflection.

In practice, this may look like students learning how to ask questions, work together, explain their thinking, reflect on feedback and take increasing ownership of their learning.

Action and the PYP Exhibition

Learning that leads somewhere

In the PYP, learning is not only about understanding. It is also about action. Students are encouraged to see that their ideas, choices and learning can make a difference in their classroom, community and beyond. Responsible action is a core part of the PYP.

In the final year of Primary, students take part in the PYP Exhibition: a culminating inquiry in which they explore, document and share their understanding of an issue or opportunity that matters to them.

Partnership with parents

Learning made visible

In the Primary years, the connection between home and school matters greatly. Parents are important partners in a child’s learning journey, and regular communication helps us support each child as a learner and as a person.

Learning celebrations, in which students share their learning with parents, and experiences such as the PYP Exhibition help make learning visible. Together with shared language around growth and mindset, these moments strengthen the connection between school and home. We also keep parents informed through regular updates, progress sharing and ongoing conversations about each child’s wider development.

How the PYP works