Students in Forms SK to 5 follow the Primary Years Programme (PYP) of the International Baccalaureate. The PYP focuses on the development of the whole child as it strives to prepare children as world citizens and life-long learners. The curricular framework is designed to meet the academic, social, physical, emotional and cultural needs of young students. It's a comprehensive approach to teaching and learning that provides an international curriculum model designed to be adaptable to each school where the PYP is adopted. The PYP particularly encourages second language learning and a trans-disciplinary, inquiry-based approach to curriculum, while maintaining a culture of international-mindedness in the school.
The aims of the PYP are expressed as a series of desired attributes and dispositions (IB learner profile) that characterize successful globally minded, international students who are inquirers, thinkers, communicators, risk-takers, knowledgeable, principled, caring, open-minded, balanced and reflective. While recognizing the importance of the development of academic concepts, knowledge and skills, an emphasis is placed on the development of positive attitudes towards people, the environment and learning. Students are encouraged to develop and reflect on these attitudes: appreciation, commitment, confidence, cooperation, creativity, curiosity, empathy, enthusiasm, independence, integrity, respect and tolerance.
Upper Canada College is fully authorized to deliver the IB PYP to its students. The school was successfully evaluated in 2007 and again in 2012. As members of the regional group, International Baccalaureate Americas, and the sub-regional group, the International Baccalaureate Schools of Ontario (IBSO), UCC teachers benefit from collaboration and professional development with other PYP schools throughout North and South America as well as the Caribbean. Participation in a variety of ongoing professional development and networking opportunities with other PYP educators ensures that our faculty is able to deliver the PYP to the highest standards.