The International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP) is designed to nurture young learners into active, inquisitive, and thoughtful individuals who are prepared for the complexities of the modern world. A key component of this educational framework is the Programme of Inquiry (POI)—a structured yet dynamic approach to learning that integrates transdisciplinary themes across different grade levels.

At the heart of the PYP Programme of Inquiry is the belief that students learn best when they are engaged in meaningful, real-world investigations that encourage critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and reflection. Each grade level explores six transdisciplinary themes that provide a framework for inquiry-based learning:

The Six Transdisciplinary Themes

Who We Are: exploring identity, personal development, relationships, and well-being

Where We Are in Place and Time: investigating historical events, heritage, migration, and exploration

How We Express Ourselves: understanding the diverse ways people communicate through art, literature, and creativity

How the World Works: examining scientific and technological phenomena, innovation, and the natural world

How We Organize Ourselves: analyzing human-made systems, governance, and economic structures

Sharing the Planet: investigating environmental sustainability, social responsibility, and global citizenship

Each theme is explored through units of inquiry, which help students connect concepts across multiple disciplines and apply their learning in authentic ways. Following is a closer look at how these units unfold across different grade levels.

The PYP Programme of Inquiry: Highlights by Grade Level

Early Years: Kindergarten and Reception

In the early years, inquiry is centered around discovery, play, and foundational learning experiences.

Kindergarten students explore concepts such as personal identity ("We are all special people who like and do different things"), artistic expression ("We can express the changes in nature through art"), and the role of community helpers. They also develop an understanding of materials through hands-on exploration.

Reception students inquire into imagination, storytelling, and their relationship with the environment. Units such as "Minibeasts play a vital role in our environment" encourage curiosity about nature, while the study of endangered animals introduces early ideas of conservation and responsibility.

PYP1: Building Foundations for Inquiry

Students in PYP1 begin to explore how their choices influence their well-being, how families are connected across time, and how artistic performances help communicate emotions and culture. Science-based inquiries include "Weather systems and changes impact our daily lives," while social inquiries examine the role of communities in supporting safety and belonging.

PYP2: Understanding the World and Our Place in It

At this stage, students engage in deeper inquiries about rights and responsibilities, migration, storytelling, and sustainability. Highlights include:

•  "People migrate for various reasons, affecting their lives and the places they go to" – a historical and cultural exploration of migration.
•  "The Earth is a unique planet in a vast and fascinating universe" – encouraging scientific inquiry into the solar system.
•  "People can establish practices to sustain and maintain the Earth’s resources" – a unit that promotes eco-friendly habits and environmental responsibility.

PYP3: Innovation and Creativity

This year emphasizes creativity, historical perspectives, and engineering:

• "People enjoy expressing and extending their creativity through the Arts" – a celebration of artistic expression.
• "Simple machines make work more efficient" – introducing fundamental engineering concepts.
• "Humans are responsible for actions that change the environment" – exploring the impact of human activities on nature.

PYP4: Exploring Systems and Change

Students in PYP4 begin to analyze more complex systems and their effects on society:

• "Exploration and discovery change how we see and understand the world" – investigating the role of explorers and scientists.
• "Critical consumers understand the persuasive techniques used in media" – developing media literacy skills.
• "Engineers use scientific laws and the design cycle to solve problems" – hands-on experimentation with engineering and physics.

PYP5: Preparing for the PYP Exhibition

As the culminating year of the PYP, PYP5 students take ownership of their learning through independent inquiries and leadership roles. Highlights include:

•   The PYP Exhibition – a student-led research project that demonstrates deep inquiry into a self-chosen topic.
•   "Humans develop systems to organize and govern themselves" – exploring government structures and decision-making.
•   "Equal opportunity is essential for building a just and inclusive society" – encouraging advocacy and action for social justice.

The Impact of the Programme of Inquiry

The Programme of Inquiry is more than just a curriculum—it’s a framework that encourages lifelong learning, curiosity, and action. Through hands-on projects, student-led discussions, and cross-disciplinary connections, students develop essential skills, such as:

• Critical thinking: analyzing information and forming reasoned conclusions
• Collaboration: working with peers to solve complex problems
• Communication: expressing ideas effectively across various mediums
• Global awareness: understanding different perspectives and cultures

With each year, students build upon previous knowledge, developing a strong foundation for the Middle Years Programme (MYP) and beyond.

A Journey of Inquiry and Discovery

The PYP Programme of Inquiry ensures that students develop intellectual curiosity, social responsibility, and the ability to think critically about the world around them. Whether they’re investigating the water cycle, exploring historical civilizations, or analyzing how media influences perception, each unit of inquiry provides opportunities for meaningful, real-world learning.

By fostering a love for learning, collaboration, and global citizenship, the PYP Programme of Inquiry prepares students not just for academic success, but for a future where they can think, innovate, and make a difference.