Primary Years

An inquiry into identity as individuals and as part of a collective through: 

• physical, emotional, social and spiritual health and well-being; 

• relationships and belonging; 

• learning and growing

An inquiry into histories and orientation in place, space and time through: 

• periods, events and artifacts; 

• communities, heritage, culture and environment;

• natural and human drivers of movement, adaptation and transformation

An inquiry into the diversity of voice, perspectives, and expression through:

• inspiration, imagination, creativity; 

• personal, social, and cultural notes and practices of communication;

• intentions, perceptions, interpretations, and responses

An inquiry into the understandings of the world and phenomena through: 

• patterns, cycles, systems; 

• diverse practices, methods, and tools; 

• discovery, design, innovation, possibilities, and impacts

An inquiry into systems, structures, and networks through: 

• interactions with and between social and ecological systems; 

• approaches to livelihoods and trade practice - intended and unintended consequences;

• representation, collaboration, and decision-making

An inquiry into the interdependence of human and natural worlds through: 

• rights, responsibilities, and dignity of all;

• pathways to just, peaceful, and reimagined futures; 

• nature, complexity, coexistence, and wisdom

In our IB program, we recognize that education extends far beyond textbooks. For our youngest learners in the Primary Years Programme (PYP), social-emotional learning (SEL) is the heartbeat of their educational journey.

Rooted in the principles of the IB framework, our approach to SEL is about more than just academic achievement—it's about nurturing well-rounded, empathetic individuals. Through a curriculum that values emotional intelligence, cooperation, and self-awareness, we lay the foundation for a lifetime of success.

Please see our Counselor page for more details about curriculum and SEL approaches at Seven Peaks.

Seven Peaks School Primary Program of Inquiry (POI)

LEARN MORE ABOUT POI

The Program of Inquiry serves as a framework for curriculum in the Primary Years Program. Learning is organized around six transdisciplinary themes. The teachers at Seven Peaks School carefully ensure that our state and national standards are aligned and embedded into these themes. 

Our PYP studies are based on six subject areas: languages, social studies, mathematics, art, science, and personal/ social/physical education.
All subject areas are equally important for the development of your child.

View the POI broken down by grade level here.

In the PYP, reporting on learning is a celebration of progress with the learning community. Reporting is continuous, growth-focused, and personalized.

Assessments in the PYP are ongoing, focusing on process over product. We strive to make this an authentic, student-centered process that encourages and involves student voice. A variety of strategies and tools are used to make this process meaningful and engaging. Teachers assess every day through observation, documentation, and reflection. Assessment is a tool for teachers and parents to understand a child’s overall progress, and more specifically, a child’s strengths and developmental needs. Observation, documentation, and reflection on children’s actions are done year-long and form the cornerstone of our teaching and learning methodology. 

Reporting on learning takes many forms.

Student portfolios, student-led conferences, parent-teacher conferences, and student-led conferences, as well as progress report cards.

Progress reports help us reflect on how well we are doing, describing the progress and achievement of students’ learning and identifying areas for growth.

As an IB Coordinator, Sammy wears many hats. She's a curriculum guru, ensuring the alignment of the school's curriculum with IB standards. She's a mentor, guiding teachers in the implementation of inquiry-based teaching methodologies. Additionally, Sammy is a visionary, consistently seeking innovative ways to enhance the IB experience for students.

In essence, IB Coordinators like Sammy are the architects of an enriched educational experience. They breathe life into the IB framework, infusing schools with a spirit of inquiry, international-mindedness, and a commitment to nurturing well-rounded, globally aware learners.

At Seven Peaks School, Sammy's dedication to IB education creates a learning environment where curiosity knows no bounds, and students are empowered to become lifelong learners and compassionate citizens of the world.

The IB stands out for me from other more traditional syllabi in the way that we are constantly reflecting and modifying our teaching and learning. We adjust our curriculum just as the world around us is changing constantly. We are always considering new ideas, interests, viewpoints of teachers and pupils and never stop learning and growing.

Sammy lyke, PYP Coordinator

As PYP Coordinator, Sammy demonstrates a deep professional commitment to advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through her leadership in global education. Recognizing schools as epicenters of change, Sammy integrates the SDGs into the Primary Years Programme to inspire students to think critically, act ethically, and engage as global citizens. Her investment in the Global Schools initiative reflects her belief that education must move beyond “business as usual,” empowering young learners to lead with purpose, address pressing challenges like inequality and climate change, and contribute to building a more sustainable future.