Welcome to our third edition of Inspiring Connections for 2019. 

We are often asked what makes an IB Education so great. Our answer is simple, the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) is ideal for students to become active, lifelong learners.

The best start in life
Children’s brains are influenced by our environment from a time before birth. In the early years of education, children’s brains show an extraordinary level of neuroplasticity, the ability for the brain to shape itself to stimulus. Our programme provides education from 4 year olds to the start of the early teen years, shaping our students into the learners they are capable of becoming. We know from research that providing high level literacy, numeracy, social and thinking skills early in life marks success later in life. Providing a safe, stimulating environment in which a child develops a strong identity as a learner is providing them with the best start in life.

Prepared for the future
We know our world is changing, and the skills of today may not be relevant tomorrow. What will the workplaces of our students look like? How do we provide training for them? Our economy is changing and our leaders now need creativity, critical thinking, the ability to problem solve, reflect and adapt, they need entrepreneurial skills, literacy skills, IT skills, people skills. We reject the old model in which the teacher knows all, and the student’s role is to passively listen. This will not provide the skills our students will need to be successful.

The IB’s programmes are different from other curricula because they:

• encourage students of all ages to think critically and challenge assumptions
• use complex, real life examples to teach knowledge and skills
• focus on understanding, not just remembering
• teach students that they are in charge of their learning
• encourage students of all ages to consider both local and global contexts
• develop well-rounded students who can collaborate effectively and act ethically

This produces students who love learning and are motivated to succeed.

We hope you enjoy reading our latest edition. There is so much to celebrate here at Holy Trinity. 

Happy Holidays

Katie and Brendon