Guide
Primary curricula compared: IB PYP, English, Cambridge, IPC and American
Most international primary schools follow one of a handful of curricula. Knowing the basics makes school websites easier to read and helps if your family may move again.
| Curriculum | Ages | Structure | Assessment |
|---|---|---|---|
| IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) | 3 to 12 | Six transdisciplinary themes, inquiry-based units | School-based; a final exhibition project in the last year |
| English National Curriculum | 5 to 11 (Years 1 to 6), with Reception before | Key Stage 1 (Years 1 to 2) and Key Stage 2 (Years 3 to 6), subject-based | National tests in England; overseas schools vary in what they use |
| Cambridge Primary | Usually 5 to 11 | Subject frameworks over six stages | Optional Cambridge Primary Checkpoint tests at the end of stage 6 |
| International Primary Curriculum (IPC) | 5 to 11 | Thematic units grouped into three age bands | School-based |
| American (often based on Common Core) | Kindergarten to grade 5, around 5 to 11 | Grade levels, subject-based | Varies by school; many use standardised tests |
The IB Primary Years Programme
The PYP is a framework rather than a fixed syllabus. Schools write their own units around six themes, so two PYP schools can teach quite different content. It is common in schools that also run the IB Middle Years and Diploma programmes.
English and Cambridge
The English National Curriculum is the statutory curriculum for state schools in England, and many British international schools follow it closely. Cambridge Primary is designed for international use and is more flexible. Both move smoothly into British-style secondary education and IGCSEs.
The IPC
The IPC is built around themed units that link subjects together. Schools often combine it with English National Curriculum targets for English and maths.
American
American elementary schools are organised by grade. Many follow standards based on the Common Core for English and maths, though the details vary.
Moving between them
Children usually move between these curricula without much trouble at primary level. The bigger differences show up later, when secondary schools prepare students for different final qualifications. When you search international schools by country, the curriculum is usually the first filter worth setting.