Primary Curriculum Overview

The primary school is also guided by the British Curriculum and follows the framework set out by the Pearson iPrimary Program with 10 core subjects. Project-based learning activities enhance learning and understanding by mirroring themes in the textbooks with practical problem-solving. This combined approach of academic and applied, practical experiences are embedded with 21st Century skills known as the 4Cs. 

The primary school component of life skills is called PSHE (personal, social, health and economic) and is better suited to developing young adults with personal, social and interdisciplinary skills to accommodate the “real-world”. Our curriculum also reflects a spectrum of cultures and nationalities. We focus on being “internationally minded” and deliver our curriculum in an international context, preparing students as international citizens for the global community. The British Curriculum Key Stages (EYFS, KS1, KS2, KS3) and learning outcomes are outlined below:

Key Stage 1 (Years 1-2)

The focus of primary learning outcomes is on building the foundations in:

  • English: Phonics, reading, writing, and oral communication.
  • Mathematics: Basic arithmetic (addition, subtraction), understanding of 2D/3D shapes, and measurement.
  • Science: Basic understanding of the natural and physical world.
  • Other Subjects: History, Geography, Art, Music, Physical Education (PE) and other languages.

 Key Assessments:

  • Young Learners Benchmark Test: CEFR standards for speaking, listening, reading and writing.
  • School Exams: End-of-term and end-of-year exams in all subjects.
  • Phonics Screening Check (Year 1) and Key Stage 1 SATs (Year 2) in English and Mathematics.
  • Academic qualifications received after completing Key Stage 1: Students receive their Key Stage 1 SAT results and certificate of completion.

Key Stage 2 (Years 3-6)

The curriculum broadens to include more advanced knowledge and skills:

  • English: Reading comprehension, writing structure, grammar, punctuation, spelling.
  • Mathematics: Fractions, decimals, geometry, and problem-solving.
  • Science: Investigation skills, biology, physics, and chemistry fundamentals.
  • Other Subjects: History, Geography, Art, Design and Technology, Music, PE, and other languages.

Key Assessments:

  • Young Learners Benchmark Test: CEFR standards for speaking, listening, reading and writing.
  • School Exams: End-of-term and end-of-year exams in all subjects.
  • Key Stage 2 SATs in English and Mathematics (Year 6).
  • Academic qualifications received after completing Key Stage 2: students receive Key Stage 2 SAT results which assess their proficiency and readiness for secondary education.

Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9)

This stage focuses on preparing students for the next academic milestone (GCSEs):

  • English: More advanced reading, writing (essays, analysis), and spoken language skills.
  • Mathematics: Algebra, geometry, data handling, and complex problem-solving.
  • Science: Deeper understanding of biology, chemistry, and physics.
  • Other Subjects: History, Geography, PE, Modern Foreign Languages, Art, Music, Design and Technology, and Computer Science.

Key Assessments:

  • Young Learners Benchmark Test: CEFR standards for speaking, listening, reading and writing.
  • School Exams: End-of-term and end-of-year exams in all subjects.
  • Standardised Tests: Progression Tests to measure progress.
  • Academic qualifications received after completing Key Stage 3: students receive exam results and a certificate of completion.

This stage sets the foundation for the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE – Key Stage 4).