🌱 A Strong Beginning: GCS Junior School Launches the IB Primary Years Programme！

At Globe Cambridge School (GCS), we believe that the earliest years of education lay the foundation for a lifetime of curiosity, confidence, and character. Beginning in September 2025, GCS proudly launches its full Junior School program (Grades 1–5) under the internationally recognized framework of the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) — a curriculum that inspires young learners to explore, question, and connect learning with the world around them.

“The Primary Years Programme doesn’t just teach subjects — it teaches children how to think, how to ask meaningful questions, and how to find their own voice as learners,” says Dr. Peter Zavodny, GCS Principal. “Our goal is to nurture not only academic excellence, but also empathy, curiosity, and a sense of purpose.”

The PYP curriculum integrates language arts, mathematics, sciences, humanities, and the arts through six transdisciplinary themes:

Who We Are, Where We Are in Place and Time, How We Express Ourselves, How the World Works, How We Organize Ourselves, and Sharing the Planet.

These themes encourage students to see connections between disciplines and to apply their understanding to real-world contexts.

🌎 A Global Approach to Early Learning

At GCS, learning begins with inquiry — the natural curiosity that drives children to ask questions and seek understanding. In small classes with a 7:1 student–faculty ratio, every child receives individualized attention and guidance from experienced educators who encourage exploration, creativity, and critical thinking.

Students learn to collaborate, express ideas confidently, and develop intercultural awareness — essential skills for a global future. By Grade 5, they participate in the PYP Exhibition, a capstone project where they research global issues, propose solutions, and share their findings with the school community — a defining moment that marks their transition into Middle School as compassionate young leaders.

💛 Learning That Nurtures the Whole Child

The GCS approach to elementary education goes beyond academics. Daily routines include mindfulness, outdoor play, and reflection to strengthen both focus and emotional wellbeing. Through monthly themes like Belonging and Understanding Strengths, students learn to recognize their emotions, celebrate differences, and develop resilience — all while feeling deeply supported by a caring faculty.

For students who need additional academic guidance, the GCS Learning Support Team provides early intervention, individualized strategies, and ongoing communication with families to ensure that every learner thrives.

“Wellbeing, leadership, and inquiry are not separate parts of education,” says Elementary Head Judith Dennison. “They’re woven together into everything we do — helping each student grow into a confident, curious, and compassionate individual.”

🏫 Why Start in the Junior School?

Families often ask when the right time is to join Globe Cambridge School. Beginning in the Elementary Division allows students to develop critical thinking, leadership, and communication skills from the earliest stages — ensuring a seamless transition into the Pre-AP Middle School and AP High School programs.

Starting early means more than just academic readiness; it means giving children the opportunity to grow within a nurturing, globally minded community that celebrates who they are and who they can become.

At Globe Cambridge School, we don’t just prepare students for the future — we help them build it.