Welcome to PRIMARY YEARS PROGRAMME at GIS 

Discover a World of Inquiry, Exploration and Lifelong Learning.

About
Primary Years Programme

At GIS, the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) fosters a dynamic and inquiry-driven approach to education for students aged 3 – 11 years old. Grounded in the IB Philosophy, the PYP encourages students to become active, compassionate and lifelong learners who engage with the world thoughtfully and confidently.

Our transdisciplinary curriculum integrates 6 globally relevant themes, enabling students to explore connections across disciplines such as Science, Mathematics, Language Arts and Social Studies. Through guided inquiry, they develop critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving skills, empowering them to ask meaningful questions, investigate and take action.

At GIS, the framework emphasises a balance between academic rigour and holistic development. Our students cultivate a deep understanding of global perspectives while nurturing their unique talents, creativity and character.

Supported by passionate educators, our PYP students grow as principled, open-minded and reflective individuals ready to contribute positively to a rapidly changing world.

Join us in shaping curious minds for a brighter future.

Meet our
Head of Primary

An adventurous and globally minded educator, Sarah has held various teaching, middle leadership, and senior leadership positions throughout her illustrious career in education. She spent her formative years in Boston, USA, before attending university in Canada. With a strong passion for travel, she relocated to the UAE over a decade ago and has been with GEMS Education since 2012.

Sarah believes in fostering student-driven inquiry and creating meaningful opportunities for integrating technology into the learning experience, encouraging students to push their boundaries and become well-rounded lifelong learners. She also supports teacher training and development programmes that best serve the needs of students and deeply values the extraordinary international community at GIS.

Qualifications & Leadership Experience

Master of Education
TELLAL Trainer
Senior Leadership Experience: 11 years
Conference Presenter
GEMS Reviewer
GEMS PYP Network Leader
Head of Primary-1

Explore Our
Primary Years Curriculum

Explore our Primary Years Curriculum at GIS, where the IB PYP fosters inquiry-based learning. Students develop skills, knowledge, and values through engaging, transdisciplinary themes that inspire growth.

SUBJECTS

Programme of Inquiry

In a PYP school, the Programme of Inquiry (POI) connects core subjects like Mathematics, English, and Science through transdisciplinary themes. These themes—such as 'How the World Works' or 'Sharing the Planet'—encourage students to explore real-world issues across subject areas.

SUBJECTS

Approaches to Learning

PYP ATLs (Approaches to Learning) help students learn skills like thinking, communicating, and being organised. These skills support learning in all subjects and help your child grow as a learner.

SUBJECTS

Project Based Learning

Through project-based learning, students engage with real-world concepts as part of sustained Units of Inquiry. This approach fosters curiosity, critical thinking, and the development of research and collaboration skills. Students apply their learning to take meaningful action in their communities and beyond.

SUBJECTS

PYPx

The PYP Exhibition (PYPx) is the culminating project in Grade 5, highlighting the skills and understanding students have developed. Guided by mentors, they research topics of personal interest, manage resources and time, and present their findings, culminating in meaningful action to address real-world issues.

SUBJECTS

Student Life

The Early Childhood PYP program fosters exploration and curiosity through engaging Units of Inquiry. Centred on science and social studies-based themes, these units inspire in-depth learning, critical thinking, and global awareness. Children develop key skills, values, and a love for discovery in a nurturing environment.

SUBJECTS

Core Subjects: Literacy, Math and Science

Literacy, Mathematics, and Science are integrated into our Units of Inquiry whenever authentic connections can be made. Following the English National Curriculum, essential skills are taught explicitly, while the IB framework encourages inquiry, critical thinking, and the exploration of real-world applications. 

SUBJECTS

Wellbeing

GEMS International School’s wellbeing philosophy is based on the IBO Wellbeing Framework promoting a healthy, supportive environment for students, staff, and partners. It emphasises mental and physical health, community engagement, IB Learner Profile integration, and staff support.

Local and Global Connections

We design our Units of Inquiry to ensure students make authentic connections between their learning and their cultural context. As an IB World School, we embed the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and global themes into the curriculum while carefully structuring inquiries to reflect the lived experiences of our students. This approach allows children to see themselves in the learning, fostering deep engagement and meaningful action both locally and globally. By thoughtfully developing our curriculum, we empower students to become critical thinkers and responsible global citizens, grounded in their own identities while connected to the wider world.

Nurturing Environment

At GIS, we are committed to creating a nurturing environment where every student feels valued and supported. Safety and emotional well-being are priorities, with teachers fostering classrooms that promote kindness, respect, and classroom community.

Our staff builds meaningful relationships, offering personalised attention that helps students feel appreciated and confident. Social-emotional learning is a focus, teaching mindfulness, resilience, and empathy, supported by our pastoral team. Engaging lessons inspire creativity and a love of learning, turning challenges into opportunities for growth.

Family partnerships are vital. Your involvement—through events, volunteering, or open communication—strengthens our community. Together, we ensure every child thrives in a caring, inclusive setting.

sense of community

At GEMS International School, our sense of community is at the heart of everything we do. With students, staff, and families representing 105 nationalities, we celebrate our shared humanity while honoring diverse cultures, traditions, and perspectives. Our inclusive environment fosters belonging and connection, empowering everyone to contribute their unique strengths. Through collaborative learning, meaningful relationships, and a commitment to kindness, we cultivate a vibrant, supportive community where every individual feels valued and inspired to thrive together. 

Diversity

GEMS International School celebrates diversity with 105 nationalities, fostering a community built on diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEI-B). As an IB World School, we nurture intercultural competence, global citizenship, and international-mindedness, empowering students to embrace multiple perspectives and collaborate across cultures. Our multilingual environment inspires curiosity and respect, preparing learners to thrive in a connected world while contributing as compassionate, globally conscious leaders.

frequently asked
questions

What is the PYP programme?  

The IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) is an internationally recognised curriculum framework designed for students aged 3 to 11. It emphasises inquiry-based learning, encouraging students to explore significant, real-world issues through transdisciplinary themes. The PYP focuses on developing the whole child by fostering critical thinking, creativity, and global-mindedness.

How does the PYP support academic achievement? 

The Primary Years Programme (PYP) supports children’s academic success by creating a learning environment that nurtures curiosity, critical thinking, and meaningful engagement with the world. Here's how the PYP helps children achieve their best:

  1. Learning Through Inquiry 
  2. Children explore topics and ask questions that matter to them, helping them develop problem-solving skills and a deeper understanding of what they learn. 
  3. Connecting Subjects 
  4. Instead of teaching subjects separately, the PYP brings them together under big ideas (like “How the World Works”), helping children see how learning is connected and relevant. 
  5. Focusing on Big Ideas 
  6. The PYP encourages children to think about broad concepts like “change” or “responsibility,” which helps them develop critical thinking skills and apply their knowledge in different situations. 
  7. Encouraging Action 
  8. Learning in the PYP often leads to meaningful action—whether it’s a project, helping others, or trying something new—giving children a purpose for their learning.
  9. Empowering Children 
  10. The PYP values children’s choices, ideas, and voices in their learning. When children feel involved, they are more motivated to work hard and succeed.
  11. Ongoing Feedback 
  12. Assessments in the PYP focus on growth. Teachers provide regular feedback, helping children set goals and continuously improve.
  13. Building Global Awareness 
  14. The PYP teaches children to understand and appreciate different cultures and perspectives, broadening their learning and preparing them for the future.
  15. Supporting Well-Being 
  16. The PYP recognises that a happy, confident child learns best. It supports social and emotional growth alongside academics. 

Through this approach, the PYP not only helps children excel academically but also develops their love of learning and the skills they need for future success. 

What role does inquiry play in the PYP? 

Inquiry is at the heart of the PYP because it helps children learn by asking questions and exploring ideas. Instead of just memorising facts, students: 

  1. Ask Questions: They are encouraged to wonder about the world and ask questions about what interests them. 
  2. Explore and Discover: Through research, discussions, and hands-on activities, children find answers and learn in meaningful ways.
  3. Think Deeply: Inquiry helps children think critically, make connections, and understand how things work.
  4. Take Action: What they learn often inspires them to make changes, try new things, or solve problems.

This approach makes learning exciting and helps children build skills they can use throughout their lives. 

How does the PYP prepare students for the future? 

The PYP develops lifelong learners equipped with essential 21st-century skills. By focusing on communication, collaboration, and global citizenship, students are prepared to thrive in diverse and rapidly changing environments. The program fosters attributes of the IB Learner Profile, such as being principled, open-minded, and reflective, which are essential for success in higher education and beyond. 

How is student progress assessed in the PYP? 

The PYP uses a variety of assessment methods to evaluate student progress, focusing on both formative (ongoing) and summative (final) assessments. Students are encouraged to reflect on their learning, set goals, and demonstrate their understanding in diverse ways, such as projects, presentations, and portfolios. Teachers provide regular feedback to support growth and guide future learning.

Voices of our
Community

Discover why families choose GIS through the voices of our parents. Their experiences highlight our commitment to academic excellence, student wellbeing, and a nurturing community. Hear firsthand how GIS fosters curiosity, confidence, and success, shaping a bright future for every child.

What I can see is that they are not worried about achieving a number on a test. It’s more about if I did not get the answer, how can I work on that area.

Ms. Marinela

Parent of Grade 3 & 5

You are teaching our children how to be open-minded, and how to develop skills that will be necessary in the future.

Szymon and Sylwia

Parent of Grade 2 & 8

The IB Curriculum helps my children to be more flexible in changing times. They learn how to find information, to analyse, to research, preparing them for the future.

Ms. Svetlana

Parent of Grade 4 & 7

It was no doubt from my side that they were going to an IB school I strongly believe that their independence and their critical thinking skills are preparing them really well.

Ms. Janne

Parent of Grade 2, 8, 10 & Grade 12

We picked IB because we think that the level of education fits well with that in the Netherlands, so when we go back, it’s a smooth transition.

Ms. Marcha

Parent of Grade KG2

Blogs
highlights

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