By Sandy Ziadeh - PYP Coordinator
As part of our ongoing commitment to the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), our school is currently in the preparation phase for the upcoming evaluation visit scheduled for the academic year 2026-2027. During this stage, we are working intensively on organizing and preparing all required documentation to be submitted to the IB. In parallel, our teachers are engaging in meaningful reflections on the Programme Standards and Practices, while gathering evidence as part of the Self-Study process. This collaborative effort
reflects our dedication to continuous improvement and high-quality implementation of the PYP framework.
As the second part of the Self-Study, our Program Development Plan (PDP) places a strong focus on wellbeing. A group of teachers participated in a two-month AVP workshop facilitated by Jenny Haughty, which focused on finding constructive ways of resolving conflicts and promoting a culture of peace within the school community. In addition, all teachers attended a lecture by academic speaker Mr. Obay Odeh on intervention during crises. Furthermore, music teachers are currently taking part in professional training in music therapy, supporting students’ emotional expression and overall wellbeing.
Professional development remains a key pillar in strengthening our programme. In September, several teachers participated in IB workshops aimed at enhancing pedagogical practices. Two teachers and myself attended a workshop on Learning and Teaching for Conceptual Understanding, which deepened our approach to concept-driven learning. Additionally, two of our teaching assistants participated in the “Building Your IB Programme: Primary Years” workshop.
In addition, I continue to facilitate a series of interactive sessions throughout the year focusing on concept-based learning, providing practical strategies and encouraging reflective dialogue among staff.
Also, our Lower School Principal participated in the IB Global Conference in The Hague in October under the theme Our Humanity Connected. Upon her return, she shared valuable insights and experiences with the teaching staff during professional development days.
Parents also play an essential role in enriching transdisciplinary experiences. Throughout the academic year, several parents were welcomed as guest experts, sharing their professional knowledge and real-life experiences with students. These contributions included a nutritionist, a cartoon artist, a yoga instructor, a UNICEF representative speaking about children’s rights, and an IT expert who led an engaging session on Artificial Intelligence. Parents remain closely connected to their children’s learning journeys and progress through participating or watching End of Unit celebrations.
In line with our commitment to healthy and environmentally friendly practices, the school has also transitioned from paper-based reflections to electronic surveys for parents and students. This shift supports sustainability while preserving valuable opportunities for feedback and reflection as part of our ongoing programme development.
Through these combined efforts, our school continues to strengthen the quality of the PYP implementation, nurture professional growth, and build strong partnerships with our learning community, ensuring a holistic and future-focused educational experience for our students.