International Primary Curriculum

Here at The Willows School Academy Trust, we teach the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) which puts the learner and improving learning at the centre of all we do. The IPC consists of thematic units of work designed around a clear process of learning and with specific learning goals for subjects such as science, history, geography, art and music as well as personal and international learning goals. The IPC is an enjoyable, relevant and rigorous thematic-based programme which gets pupils engaged and inspired in their learning.

The IPC units of learning are detailed and rigorous, teachers have the flexibility and capacity to make the IPC both differentiated and contextually relevant for our learners. Pupils are encouraged to enquire, challenge ideas and discover new concepts. We believe that having hands-on experiences is extremely important. We provide a range of different learning experiences for pupils, from in-class practical, hands-on activities, research and independent activities to school visits, guest speakers and workshops, to ensure that the children’s learning experiences are as stimulating and memorable as possible.

All IPC units follow the same Process to Facilitate Learning:

Entry Point

The entry point is an activity for children that begins each unit of work and provides an exciting introduction to the work that is to follow.

The Knowledge Harvest

The knowledge harvest takes place in the early stages of each unit and provides an opportunity for children to reveal what they already know about the themes they are studying. This bank of knowledge can then be added to or developed throughout the unit.

Activities

Each IPC unit has a range of activities, including research, recording, group work and practical activities. We use this variety of different activities and methods to get the best out of each child.

During the recording activities, children interpret their learning and have the opportunity to demonstrate, share and explain it in different ways.

Exit Point

It is important to us at The Willows to celebrate our children's learning. The exit point has two main purposes. First, to help children pull together their learning from the unit and second, to celebrate this learning.

Personal Learning Goals

The IPC has 8 Personal Goals which underpin those qualities and learning characteristics we believe children will find essential in their future life. 

• Adaptable

• Communicator

• Collaborator

• Empathetic

• Ethical

• Resilient

• Respectful

• Thinker

At our school we give opportunities to experience and practice these personal learning goals through the IPC and across all subjects, to nurture lifelong qualities for all learners.

International Learning Goals

Through the IPC we are developing a strong focus on developing our children as global citizens and becoming internationally-minded. International learning goals are unique to the curriculum and help our children to develop an increasingly sophisticated national, international and intercultural perspective.

 

Example IPC Curriculum Map

To visit the IPC website click here or alternatively you can talk to our staff.