At SJS our students follow a curriculum which has been developed in line with the guiding principles of the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme. It is an international, transdisciplinary programme designed to foster the development of the whole child, not just in the classroom but also through other means of learning. The curriculum focuses on the academic, social, physical, emotional and cultural developments of the child.
SJS is fully authorised by the International Baccalaureate Organization.
About the PYP
The International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP) is a transdisciplinary programme of international education designed to foster the development of the whole child. It is designed for students aged 3 to 12. It focuses on the total growth of the developing child, touching hearts as well as minds and encompassing social, physical, emotional and cultural needs in addition to academic development.
International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO)
Our PYP Journey
[Latest]
In 2022, the SJS community has been deeply involved in a self-study process to understand our practices through the lens of the IB standards and practices, helping us to identify our strengths and our areas for further development.
In November 2023, SJS had another successful evaluation.
It is with great pride that for SJS to share the results of our recent IB Evaluation visit which took place at the start of November, and which marks the conclusion of a meaningful and intense journey we have taken over the last year.
The results and feedback celebrate our school’s commitment to excellence and continuous improvement, and they highlight quite a number of strengths.
Sha Tin Junior School (SJS) is a dynamic and inclusive community that demonstrates a strong commitment to the principles of an IB education and holistic development of students. SJS focuses on nurturing the whole child and actively supports students across the breadth of education.
During the period under review, the school had a number of achievements, including providing various opportunities for teacher and student agency, implementation of Global Goals Award Scheme, and increased student engagement. The other school achievements include strong collaboration with various organizations, provision of learning support and outdoor play opportunities, and active involvement of parents in learning and teaching.
SJS is committed to continuous improvement of programme implementation and ensuring all learners become the best they can be. The governance and leadership teams work well with staff, students, and families in providing a high-quality programme that supports and addresses the interests and passions of students, develop their leadership skills, and honor their voice in shaping their learning experiences. Respectful relationships, development of learning agency, and excellence in performance are valued and modeled by members of SJS learning community.
In late November 2023, The SJS Leadership Team provided valuable insights into the IB Evaluation process, enlightening parents on the assessment and accreditation procedures.
In 2005, SJS began to look at the Primary Years Programme (PYP) of the International Baccalaureate as a curriculum model. In 2006 we were granted candidacy status from the IBO and worked hard to implement all elements of the programme. As a result, in June 2007 we were awarded pre-authorisation status and in June of 2009 were granted full authorisation as an IBO World School. In April 2013, we had a successful evaluation and we continue our journey as an IBO World School.
Aims of the Programme
At our heart we are motivated by a mission to create a better world through education.
The International Baccalaureate aims to develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect. To this end the organization works with schools, governments and international organizations to develop challenging programmes of international education and rigorous assessment. These programmes encourage students across the world to become active, compassionate and lifelong learners who understand that other people, with their differences, can also be right.
International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO)
Developing International Mindedness
The aim of all IB programmes is to develop internationally minded people who, recognizing their common humanity and shared guardianship of the planet, help to create a better and more peaceful world. The philosophy of the PYP, as it directly affects the child, is expressed in a series of desired attributes and traits that characterize students with an international perspective. Taken together, they create the PYP learner profile. We want students to develop the following attributes and dispositions to become:
Inquirers
Children develop their natural curiosity. They have acquired skills necessary to conduct inquiry and research and show independence in learning. They actively enjoy learning and this love of learning will be sustained throughout their lives.
Thinkers
Children exercise initiative in applying thinking skills critically and creatively to recognise and approach complex problems, and make reasoned, ethical decisions.
Communicators
Children understand and express ideas and information confidently and creatively in more than one language and in a variety of modes of communication. They work effectively and willingly in collaboration with others.
Knowledgeable
Children approach unfamiliar situations and uncertainty with courage and forethought, and have the independence of spirit to explore new roles, ideas and strategies. They are brave and articulate in defending their beliefs.
Risk-takers
Children explore concepts, ideas and issues that have local and global significance. In doing so, they acquire in-depth knowledge and develop understanding across a broad and balanced range of disciplines.
Principled
Children act with integrity and honesty, with a strong sense of fairness, justice and respect for the dignity of the individual, groups and communities. They take responsibility for their own actions and the consequences that accompany them.
Caring
Children show empathy, compassion and respect towards the needs and feelings of others. They have a personal commitment to service, and act to make a positive difference to the lives of others and to the environment.
Open Minded
Children understand and appreciate their own cultures and personal histories, and are open to perspectives, values and traditions of other individuals and communities. They are accustomed to seeking and evaluating a range of points of view, and are willing to grow from the experience.
Balanced
Children understand the importance of intellectual, physical and emotional balance to achieve personal well-being for themselves and others.
Reflective
Children give thoughtful consideration to their own learning and experience. They are able to assess and understand their strengths and limitations in order to support their learning and personal development.
Learning and Teaching
The Curriculum Model
At the heart of the Primary Years Programme’s philosophy is a commitment to structured inquiry as the leading vehicle for learning. The teaching and learning in the PYP is student-centred and is inquiry-based. This means that teaching begins with, and builds on, the curiosity of the students, their previous experiences and knowledge and their capacity to understand concepts. Six transdisciplinary themes provide the framework for the exploration of knowledge.
Students explore subject areas often in ways that transcend conventional subject boundaries. In the process, they develop an understanding of important concepts, acquire essential skills and knowledge, develop particular attitudes and learn to take socially responsible action.
If you require more information about the PYP at SJS, please contact the school.
Updated: May 2023