Early Years and Primary at a Glance

BINUS SCHOOL Surabaya is a candidate school for the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP) and is working towards authorization. We would like to share with you the following important information about the PYP implementation at our school.

What is the PYP?

The PYP is an inquiry-based, concept-driven curriculum. It is one of the four programmes offered by the International Baccalaureate, a non-profit organization based in Geneva, Switzerland.

Which grade levels are engaged in the PYP?

At BINUS SCHOOL Surabaya, our early years and primary classes are engaged in the PYP. As part of the programme, our students are explicitly taught the IB learner profile, approaches to learning, and concepts. They explore units of inquiry grouped under six transdisciplinary themes, which have local and global significance.

What are the attributes of the IB learner profile?

We have 10 attributes of the IB learner profile. The attributes include thinker, risk-taker, inquirer, communicator, knowledgeable, caring, reflective, open-minded, principled, and balanced. We use the mnemonic, TRICK CROP B, to easily remember the IB learner profile attributes.

What are the approaches to learning?

The approaches to learning (ATL) are life skills, and they include communication skills, research skills, self-management, social skills, and thinking skills. The ATL with the sub-skills are linked to the IB learner profile. Both the ATL and IB learner profile are embedded in our curriculum.

What languages are taught in the PYP?

At BINUS SCHOOL Surabaya, English is used as the language of instruction. Bahasa Indonesia is taught as the host country language. Mandarin is offered as an additional language, starting from early years 1. Click here to access our school handbook that includes our language policy.

How are PYP students assessed?

Students in the early years and primary are assessed using different strategies and tools, which include rubrics and checklists. Examples of our assessment strategies are performance assessments, open-ended tasks, and observations. Students maintain portfolios, which can be accessed from Toddle. We report student learning through written reports and various types of conferences such as Parent-Teacher Conference and Student-led Conference. Click here to access our school handbook that includes the assessment policy.