What is the International Primary Curriculum (IPC)?

This guide introduces the International Primary Curriculum (IPC), a globally recognized framework designed to enhance your child’s learning journey. We delve into its philosophy, structure, and unique features, providing practical advice to help you actively engage in your child’s education.

What is the IPC?

The IPC is a child-centred, internationally recognised curriculum for children aged 5–11. It emphasises thematic, engaging, and integrated learning experiences while fostering personal and international understanding.

Key Features

The IPC cultivates a love for learning, builds confidence, and equips children to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
  1. Thematic and Creative: Units are designed around captivating themes like “Toys,” “Rainforests,” and “Mission to Mars,” sparking children’s curiosity and imagination.
  2. Integrated Learning: Subjects such as science, geography, and history are interconnected, helping children see how knowledge aligns across disciplines.
  3. Skills-Based: Focuses on enquiry, critical thinking, and the practical application of knowledge.
  4. International Mindedness: Encourages respect for cultural diversity while helping children build their own sense of identity.
  5. Personal Development: Instills adaptability, resilience, and cooperation, preparing students for lifelong learning and global citizenship.
  6. Brain-Friendly and Fun: Lessons are engaging, challenging, and tailored to how children learn best.

Diagram Idea: Visual representation of the IPC pillars: Academic, Personal, and International Learning.

Why Choose?

The international Curriculum (IPC) aligns with our school’s mission to nurture lifelong learners who excel academically, socially, and emotionally. It combines academic rigour with personal growth and global perspectives.

Benefits

  1. Encourages Global Awareness: Helps children explore their own culture and heritage while appreciating others.
  2. Promotes Holistic Development: Balances academic learning with essential life skills like communication, adaptability, and collaboration.
  3. Incorporates Innovative Approaches: Caters to diverse learning styles, ensuring all students have opportunities to succeed.
  4. Creates Meaningful Connections: Links knowledge to real-world situations through integrated thematic units.

Learning Goals

The IPC is organized into Mileposts, each catering to specific age groups: Milepost 1: Years 1–2 (ages 5–7), milepost 2: Years 3–4 (ages 7–9), milepost 3: Years 5–6 (ages 9–11)

Each Milepost encompasses three types of goals:

  1. Subject Goals: Build knowledge, skills, and understanding in areas like science, geography, and art. Example: Create maps using pictures and symbols (Geography).
  2. Personal Goals: Cultivate qualities such as resilience, cooperation, and adaptability. Example: Demonstrate resilience by trying again after failure.
  3. International Goals: Foster global perspectives and an understanding of cultural interdependence. Example: Identify cultural differences and value them equally.

How Do IPC Units Work?

Each International Primary Curriculum (IPC) unit follows a structured approach to guide children’s learning:

Key IPC Terms:

  • Entry Point: A creative start to the unit, often involving hands-on activities.
  • Knowledge Harvest: Reflective activities to uncover prior knowledge and guide new learning.
  • Exit Point: Culminating events showcasing children’s learning to families.

Assessment in the IPC

The IPC employs a skills-based assessment framework, focusing on children’s developmental stages:

Features of IPC Assessment

Emphasizes skills progression rather than memorization.

Encourages self-assessment to foster motivation and understanding.

Evaluates key subjects such as science, geography, history, ICT, and international mindedness.

Diagram Idea: A chart showing the progression from Beginning → Developing → Mastering.

How Can Parents Support IPC Learning?

Subject Highlights

Art: Children receive 1–2 hours per week of art, integrated into IPC themes. Lessons foster creativity while achieving subject and personal learning goals.

Music: Weekly music lessons enhance teamwork, memory, and abstract thinking, guided by the IPC and National Curriculum (England).

PE: Children participate in 1–2 hours of physical activity weekly, promoting health, fitness, and resilience.

Our curriculum: Curriculum

Useful Resources for Parents

International Primary Curriculum (IPC) Official Website: www.internationalprimarycurriculum.com

School Resources: Keep an eye out for unit letters and school updates to stay informed.

The IPC transforms education into an exciting, engaging, and globally relevant journey for your child. By partnering with teachers and supporting your child’s learning at home, you can help them unlock their full potential.

Anne Hill International School’s Educational Adventure in Vung Tau

Embark on an educational adventure to Vung Tau with primary school students from Anne Hill International School. Over two days and one night, experience a meticulously planned expedition exploring the coastal wonders of this vibrant city. Teaming up with FOX ADVENTURES VIETNAM, this adventure seamlessly integrates learning with life experiences, offering invaluable insights into Vung Tau’s geographical and historical culture.

Day 1: Unveiling Cultural Marvels

museum; some people
Ba Ria – Vung Tau Museum is located at 4 Tran Phu Street, the centre of Front Beach, Vung Tau City. Showcasing a diverse collection of artefacts, exhibits, and artworks.

The adventure commenced at the Vung Tau Provincial Museum, where students were guided through a rich tapestry of artefacts and artwork. Immersed in the historical narratives and cultural heritage of Vung Tau, our young scholars gained invaluable insights into the essence of this coastal gem.

2 teams; participate in activities

Returning to the hotel, students eagerly engaged in dynamic team-building activities, fostering collaboration and friendly competition. Split into teams, they enthusiastically participated in a series of challenges, forging bonds and creating lasting memories.

Day 2: Embracing Adventure

Daybreak unveiled endless adventures at Ho May Park, a fusion of cultural and eco-tourism attractions. Students marveled at Vung Tau’s panoramic vistas from cable cars and relished cultural performances. The ascent to the iconic Jesus Christ Statue provided a breathtaking perspective of the city’s beauty and grandeur.

A visit to Greenfield Farmstay offered a rustic retreat, brimming with games and team-building exercises. From spirited games to exhilarating races, each activity nurtured camaraderie and sportsmanship.

The day culminated with a lavish BBQ feast amidst the tranquil ambiance of Greenfield Farmstay. As students shared tales and cooled off in the pool, anticipation for the next day’s adventures soared.

Preserving Natural Splendor

Journeying to Suoi Da 5 Ho in Ba Ria district, students engaged in eco-conscious activities, dividing into groups to conquer physical challenges and clean up the surroundings. Overcoming obstacles, they reveled in the cool waters of natural rock pools and relished the panoramic views from the mountaintop.

Reflecting on Growth

This educational escapade, is a part of International Primary Curirculum (IPC) to ensures that our students develop the skills and attributes that will help them to become independent and flexible learners that are prepared for the future. By intertwining academic pursuits with real-world experiences, we nurture well-rounded scholars with the opportunity to learn and respect diverse perspectives, effectively communicate across cultures and ultimately, understand and address global challenges in their world.