Dear Primary Families,

Our week ended with a lovely assembly, and I would like to acknowledge and thank the students and teachers for doing such a wonderful job of sharing the learning that has been taking place. We had examples from language work in Grade 6, math work and biographies in Grade 5, role models from Grade 4, and Unit of Inquiry (UOI) work on different body systems from Grade 3. These contributions from each grade level provided a wonderful snapshot of the balance between transdisciplinary learning and subject-specific learning that occurs throughout primary school.

Primary Parent Workshop: Learning in the PYP
On Monday morning, our PYP Coordinator, Ms. Mary Ann, led a workshop that provided an overview of learning in the PYP. It was great to see parents take the time to learn more about the program and gain a better understanding of how all the different elements fit together. One of the questions asked was, “What type of person do you want your child to be at 20 years of age?” Another was, “What is the most important thing you would like your child to learn at school?” These questions helped the group make connections between the development of learner profile attributes and approaches to learning skills, which are fundamental to the learning and teaching process in IB schools. Ms. Mary Ann collected exit tickets from parents, which will help us determine topics for future workshop sessions.

IB Global Conference 2024: Inspiring Learners, Realizing Potential
Next Wednesday, I am fortunate to be traveling to Budapest to attend the IB Global Conference. This will be my first time attending, and I am really excited about the opportunity. The theme for the conference is “Inspiring Learners, Realizing Potential,” and I will attend sessions and workshops on a variety of topics, including developments in the PYP, building a sustainable approach to AI, and empowering primary years learners. I look forward to sharing updates and information upon my return.

Potluck Supper (Thursday, 17th October, 6:00–8:00 pm)
Unfortunately, I am unable to attend this event next week. However, I am sure it will be an enjoyable occasion for all, and I am sorry to miss out on the wonderful foods that will be shared.

I wish you all a wonderful weekend.

Best regards,

Matthew

Primary Team Lead

Reminders:

  • Thursday, 17th October: Primary Assembly (KG2–Grade 2), 12:20–1:00 pm
    (KG1 will not be sharing their learning during this assembly, as they are not quite ready yet!)
  • Thursday, 17th October: Potluck Supper (6:00–8:00 pm, Mazoon)
  • Thursday, 24th October: School ends for October break. Return to school Sunday, 3rd November
  • 3 Way Conferences: 5-7 November (Further details to follow)