Since 2012, Abacus has proudly been an IB World School, utilising the International Baccalaureate’s Primary Years Programme (PYP) as our guiding curriculum framework. Our mission and vision align seamlessly with the values and strengths of the PYP, fostering an enriching educational environment.
In our English and Dual Language classes, our dedicated teaching teams create engaging, play-based learning experiences that build on each child's prior knowledge and interests. We believe in the power of inquiry, carefully documenting each child's journey to celebrate their questions and curiosities. At Abacus, we nurture a love for learning that encourages exploration and growth in every student.
What is the Primary Years Programme?
The Learner
At Abacus, we place your child at the heart of their educational journey. Our approach encourages children to explore who they are as learners and discover how they learn best. We nurture the development of the Learner Profile, a set of values and characteristics that are foundational in our educational philosophy.
Our dedicated teaching team models these attributes daily, bringing them to life through engaging stories, songs, and playful activities. As part of the International Baccalaureate (IB) community, we empower your child to take meaningful action, fostering a sense of agency that not only impacts their own lives but also the lives of others.
These are our Abacus definitions of the Learner Profile Attributes:
|
Inquirer |
I wonder about things and ask questions to learn new things. |
|
Knowledgeable |
I know a lot about myself and the world around me. |
|
Thinker |
I solve problems and connect the things I know. |
|
Communicator |
I share my ideas with others and I listen carefully. |
|
Principled |
I am a good friend and I do the right thing. |
|
Open-minded |
I listen to others and accept other people’s ideas. |
|
Caring |
I am kind to others and care about the world we live in. |
|
Courageous |
I try new things and am not afraid to have a go. |
|
Balanced |
I work and play hard and take care of myself. |
|
Reflective |
I take the time to think about what I have done and learned. |
Learning and Teaching
At Abacus, our collaborative teaching approach ensures that every child engages in a rich and dynamic Programme of Inquiry. This program allows students to explore important concepts across various transdisciplinary themes, fostering a deeper understanding of the world around them.
Our curriculum is built around six meaningful themes that resonate with learners of all ages:
- Who We Are How We Express Ourselves
- Where We Are in Place and Time
- How We Organise Ourselves
- How The World Works
- Sharing The Planet
Each Unit of Inquiry (UOI) is centred on one of these themes, anchored by a Central Idea that guides and enriches the learning experience. Through these units, students integrate knowledge across different subjects, including:
- Languages: English literacy and Mandarin
- Social Studies: Early history and geography
- Mathematics: Number concepts, measurement, patterns, and operations
- Arts: Music, dance, and visual arts
- Science: Early science and technology skills
- Personal, Social, and Physical Education
Our dedicated teaching team not only facilitates this multidisciplinary learning but also emphasises the importance of academic integrity. We guide students to be honest, take responsibility for their own learning, and respect the ideas of others.
Together, we create a vibrant learning environment where curiosity thrives, and students are empowered to explore and understand their world!
Inclusion
At Abacus, we believe that the success of our Kindergarten and the IB PYP framework hinges on cultivating a vibrant community of learners who share a common understanding of our educational values. We celebrate each child for who they are and the diverse experiences they bring to our school. Our commitment to inclusion and wellbeing fosters an environment where mutual respect and understanding flourish.
International Mindedness
We strive to nurture International Mindedness within our community, encouraging children to see themselves as global citizens who are compassionate and respectful. This awareness of interconnectedness is woven into every aspect of our learning experiences, from the resources we choose to the policies we implement.
We also prioritise your child's learning journey by carefully documenting their progress. Our teaching team uses this assessment information to ensure that each child is appropriately supported and challenged. Your child will actively participate in assessing their own progress, and you'll find numerous ways they record their goals and personal growth during your visits to Abacus.
We value our partnership with you, recognising that you are your child’s first teacher. You have invaluable insights into their strengths and progress at home. We create opportunities for you to share this information with us and commit to regularly updating you on your child’s learning journey.
Together, we build a supportive and inclusive learning community where every child can thrive.
Technology
At Abacus, we embrace technology in all its forms to enhance and extend the teaching and learning experience. Your child will not only learn how to use various technologies but will also leverage them to document and share their new discoveries. This integration of technology empowers children to engage with their learning in innovative and meaningful ways.
Learning Environments
We are proud of our flexible and responsive learning environments at Abacus, which cater to the diverse interests and learning styles of our students. The design of our spaces is a collaborative effort, often co-created with the children themselves.
When you visit Abacus, you will see how we prioritise nature and the use of natural materials, reflecting our commitment to sustainability and reducing our environmental impact. Our learning environments are not just classrooms; they are dynamic spaces that inspire curiosity, creativity, and a love for learning.
