Curriculum
Our school delivers the New Zealand curriculum through the local curriculum of the PYP and also the Montessori curriculum for our Montessori students.
At the heart of the PYP, is a commitment to structured inquiry as the leading vehicle for learning. This learning is fostered through authentic and meaningful links across the curriculum and within a child centered and interactive environment.
The learning programme of the PYP is a balanced programme of concepts, knowledge, skills, attitudes, and actions for our students across all learning areas.
The NZ curriculum is made up of eight essential learning areas:
- English
- Mathematics & Statistics
- Science
- Technology
- Social Science
- Health & Physical Education
- The Arts
- Learning Languages
Underpinning the curriculum areas are five key competencies:
- Thinking
- Understanding language, symbols and texts
- Relating to others
- Managing self
- Participating & contributing
Core Curriculum
Our children experience a wide range of core curriculum subjects and activities.
Primary Years Programme (PYP) of the International Baccalaureate (IB)
In 2006, Glendowie Primary became an IB school implementing the Primary Years Programme (PYP). The school was authorised in November 2006.
The Primary Years Programme (PYP) at Glendowie Primary continues to build on our Inquiry Based Learning Programme involving children in learning how to learn. The children are involved in purposeful inquiry for real learning. Children are encouraged to be independent and life long learners.
The International disciplinary programme of the PYP fosters the development of the child, not just in the classroom, but also through other means of learning.
The PYP supports the school wide values of “I Care” as it focuses on the total growth of the developing child, encouraging positive attitudes towards learning, the environment, and other people.
New Speakers of English
We have a specialised programme for children from non-English speaking backgrounds. Students learn literacy skills in English in small groups with specially trained teachers or tutors. Language assistants also work alongside children in their classrooms.
Strong emphasis is placed on supporting each individual to realize their full potential in the acquisition of English. The classrooms are well resourced with a range of language materials and interactive activities.
Glendowie School’s orchestra allows children with musical talent to showcase and develop their skills and to have the opportunity to perform as part of an ensemble. The music is arranged to cater for a wide range of skill levels.
Auditions take place in Term 1, and a basic competence in playing and reading music is required for selection. As the weekly one-hour sessions are arranged to minimise disruption to lessons, the children must be prepared to commit to at least 30 minutes of their own time either before school or during a lunch break throughout the year.
The orchestra performs at one or more special assemblies to which parents are invited to enjoy their children’s performance.
