Children have an innate sense of wonder and a hunger to understand their world. Within the Elementary School at AIS, we seek to foster the natural curiosity that the children bring to our doors. 

The Elementary School at AIS comprises children from Preschool to Year 5. An accredited International Baccalaureate World School, the Elementary School utilises the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) as the main curricular vehicle for our learning. The PYP is a student centred, inquiry based programme. It engages students in the learning process since it acknowledges the understanding and skills that individuals bring and invites them to be active participants in shaping and extending classroom inquiries. Whilst knowledge is a key component, the focus of our curriculum is on skills, concepts, attitudes and values which are integrated and transferable across curriculum domains. Therefore, our students are better able to link their understandings throughout the Elementary School years.

We are a large school and utilise a sub-school structure across the Preschool to Year 5 learning continuum to provide most effectively for targeted pastoral and learning needs of the Primary Years Programme. The Preschool offers programs for 3 and 4 year old children in resource rich, purpose built learning environments. Children progress into the Junior School which comprises three year levels- Preparatory, Year 1 and Year 2. The Primary School offers dynamic learning opportunities within the final three years of the Primary Years Programme for children in Years 3, 4 and 5. The Elementary School structure of the learning years from Preschool to Year 5 allows for continuity of the learning programme across these important foundational years of schooling.

The Elementary School celebrates community. Parents play an active role in assisting classroom learning in a variety of ways. Volunteer training programmes allow parents to understand the classroom dynamic and develop the necessary skills to contribute meaningfully to learning, both inside and outside the classroom. Parent education and social events are also organised to help promote the spirit of community within the School.

AIS is a thriving and evolving educational setting. We constantly reflect on our practices, and of those within the educational community abroad. Our goal is to ensure that we provide quality resources, effective and inspiring teaching and learning programs, and an enriching, supportive environment for our children. 

I welcome you to the Elementary School and the AIS community.

Mr Peter Allison
Acting Head of Elementary School