Primary Years Programme at ISS
The Primary Years Programme (PYP), developed by the International Baccalaureate, is an educational framework designed for children up to the age of 12.
It provides a balanced education that develops the whole child, not only academically, but also socially, emotionally, and physically.
Our PYP students learn in English, and subjects such as language, mathematics, and physical education are integrated into meaningful units of inquiry. Rather than being taught in isolation, subjects are connected and contextualised as they are in the real world, helping students make sense of concepts more holistically.
This cross-disciplinary learning is supported by an inquiry-based approach, where students are encouraged to ask questions, investigate ideas, and discover answers for themselves. Over time, this helps children engage with subjects more deeply, develop essential life skills, and build a lifelong love of learning. All within a school community that values care, hospitality and multiculturalism as key elements of our work.
Essential Elements of the Primary Years Programme
Our PYP students develop an understanding of general concepts, skills (thinking, communication, social, research and self-management), attitudes, actions, and knowledge.
Knowledge
What do we want students to learn about?
Who we are, where we are in place and time, how we express ourselves, how the world works, how we organise ourselves, and sharing the planet. These themes bring context to the students' learning.
Concepts
What do we want students to understand?
Form, Function, Causation, Change, Connection, Perspective and Responsibility.
Skills
What do we want students to be able to do?
Social skills, Research skills, Thinking skills, Communication skills, Self-Management skills.
Attitudes
What do our students strive to be?
In line with the IB Learner profile, our students become:
Principled, Inquirer, Communicator, Reflective, Knowledgeable, Balanced, Risk-taker, Open-minded, Thinker, Caring
Action
How do we want students to act?
Participation (as individuals or in a group), Advocacy (action to support), Social justice, Social entrepreneurship, Lifestyle choice (consumption and impact).
A holistic approach to help students thrive
We nurture children’s physical, emotional, social, and cognitive needs together, rather than focusing only on academic achievement. By nurturing the whole child, we build resilience and confidence, encourage positive relationships and inspire a lasting love of learning.
With students from a wide range of cultural and academic backgrounds, we embrace diversity as an opportunity for growth. By growing up alongside many different cultures, students naturally develop open-mindedness and empathy as they learn to share and appreciate different perspectives.
The learning spaces at ISS Lisbon are designed to support collaboration and communication – essential skills for future leaders and entrepreneurs. Flexible and open spaces encourage group work, discussion, and the exchange of ideas, while breakout areas provide opportunities for more focused, independent learning.
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Arts and culture
Our Primary Years Programme places a strong emphasis on developing confidence and creativity through the arts. We provide multiple creative and performing arts opportunities, including a whole-school musical production each year, and the UK-based LAMDA performance exams. The school musical is a collaborative, year-long project where students can take on a variety of roles, from acting to backstage roles such as set design, props and lighting.
Outdoor learning
Outdoor learning plays an important role within the PYP. Children have regular lessons in our outdoor woodland, exploring the natural environment and taking part in activities that encourage exploration, curiosity and a connection with their surroundings.
STEAM in the curriculum
Our school has dedicated spaces for STEAM learning, equipped with tools including 3D printers, laser cutters and computers. Through exploration and creative activities, we promote the development of 21st-century skills to help succeed in a fast-paced and fast-evolving future. This includes how to use technology responsibly and productively, whether investigating AI, coding tools, or for project-based research.
Wellbeing in the PYP
Student wellbeing and personal development are supported through a dedicated pastoral programme, which focuses on themes such as relationships, identity, respect, and environmental awareness. We have a restorative approach to behaviour, encouraging students to reflect on their actions, understand their impact on others, and work collaboratively towards solutions, rather than relying on punitive measures.
Student voice
Student voice is another key element of school life. An active Primary School Student Council empowers learners to take ownership, share ideas, and contribute to school initiatives, while also playing a central role in leading assemblies. These assemblies provide opportunities for learners to present their work and reflect on their progress at the end of each PYP unit of enquiry. This approach reflects the school’s commitment to developing independence, confidence, and leadership skills from an early age.
Assessment
Reports are written and sent to parents throughout the three school terms. Reports include effort and achievement grades and comments from the homeroom teacher. The Progress Report at the end of the summer term serves as official proof that your child completed the current academic year and can transition to the following year. Each unit of inquiry has a formative and a summative assessment task shared with students and parents, with teachers providing a brief comment on current progress.
Our Primary Years Programme (PYP) provides a holistic educational experience, empowering students to become active, compassionate, and lifelong learners. We achieve this through a transdisciplinary framework that encourages exploration and connection-making across subjects, enabling students to see the relevance of their learning in the real world and develop a strong sense of international-mindedness.
Within our safe and inclusive environment, students are encouraged to question, explore, and take ownership of their learning journey, becoming considerate members of our school community.
Through differentiated teaching practices, we ensure that each student at ISS Lisbon receives the support and guidance needed to thrive academically and personally.
EDUARDO CARY, Head of Primary & Coordinator of Primary Years Programme
