From Curiosity to Understanding

23 June 2026

Inquiry-Based Learning at OIA Primary For many families, inquiry-based learning is a term they may have heard before, but what does it actually look like in practice? According to Colleen Cropp, PYP Learning Leader at OIA Primary, inquiry is much more than simply allowing children to ask questions. “Inquiry-based learning is when students are encouraged to ask questions, reflect and evaluate what they are learning, and make connections across subject areas,” she explains. “Teachers guide learning, provide opportunities to ignite curiosity, deepen understanding, and support and encourage questioning.” This philosophy aligns closely with the mission and values that have long shaped learning at OIS. Our mission speaks of creating a positive, meaningful and challenging learning environment where imagination, creativity and exploration are encouraged. One of our core values is having an inquisitive mind: developing learners who question, investigate and actively engage with the world around them. As OIA Primary becomes an International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (PYP) school, that spirit of inquiry will become even more deeply embedded throughout the curriculum. What inquiry looks like in the classroom For parents visiting an inquiry-based classroom for the first time, the learning environment can sometimes look very different from what they experienced at school themselves. “It will be a busy place,” says Colleen. “Children may be working in...

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OIA Overnight End of Year Camp 2026 – Camp Believe it!

23 June 2026

By Ian Thomas, Teacher 7UP What an incredible few days we had at our OIA Overnight End of Year Camp with classes 7INT, 7UP and 8DEP. Over three days, we laughed, learned, challenged ourselves, got soaked, got muddy, got tired, and most importantly, created memories that will stay with us long after primary school is over. From the moment we arrived, camp quickly became more than just an excursion. It became a community. Children set up their rooms, explored the giant field, bounced endlessly on the bouncy cushion, played together, and showed us what can happen when different classes come together with kindness and enthusiasm. Our adventures began on the water as we kayaked down the river. Some groups focused on reaching the bridge while others discovered that getting stuck was sometimes just as much fun. A few students even conducted some unexpected investigations into gravity by ending up in the water. Thankfully, no insects were harmed when paddles were occasionally repurposed as defensive tools against tiny flying visitors. We also tested our aim during archery and discovered that Juf Elise may secretly be Katniss Everdeen from The Hunger Games. Throughout camp, students took part in creative Taskmaster challenges led by Juf Sabrina, including...

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