Primary Years - Grades 1-3
Encouraging inquiry, collaboration, creativity and critical thinking!
Our Primary Years program builds on strong foundations established in the early years, balancing academics with social, emotional and whole-child development.
Outdoor Learning
bringing the classroom into nature!
Weather permitting, Primary Years students continue to enjoy three afternoons of outdoor learning weekly in all core subjects; they explore topics such as ecosystems and habitats, gardening, photosynthesis, map making, journaling and story telling, drama and fine arts, as well as indigenous culture, traditions and beliefs. Our goal is to build strong conservationists and advocates for the environment by making connections to nature and bringing our classroom to the outdoors!
In addition, students have two 40-minute recess breaks each day, as well as a 30 minute end-of-day break at dismissal, to support physical well-being, collaboration, and experiential learning.
Technology in the Classroom
asking questions, finding answers, thinking critically!
Technology remains purposeful and limited in the primary grades. It is used selectively to reinforce skills through targeted phonics or math applications, to support research in developmentally appropriate ways, or to mark a special occasion with a shared class film. Our focus remains on discussion, critical thinking, handwriting, reading, and authentic problem-solving.
Literacy Skills
building on the basics to read confidently
Reading instruction continues through explicit, systematic phonics using the UFLI framework, alongside a rich variety of reading comprehension experiences and structured writing instruction. Annual literacy screening ensures we closely monitor progress, and students who require additional support receive timely, individualized 1:1 interventions. Our goal is for every child to become a fluent, confident, and engaged reader.
Primary Years Math
making practical connections to the world around us
In primary grades, math instruction balances hands-on exploration with structured, traditional learning. Students continue to use manipulatives, visual models, and collaborative problem-solving to deepen conceptual understanding, while also building fluency through direct instruction and purposeful practice. Lessons move from concrete to pictorial to abstract, ensuring students not only know how to solve problems, but understand why strategies work. This balanced approach builds confidence, accuracy, and strong mathematical skills.
