PRIMARY YEARS (GRADE 1-5)
Brockton’s Grade 1 to 5 curriculum is taught within the framework of the International Baccalaureate (IB) organization’s Primary Years Programme (PYP). Student centered learning is at the core of our PYP. Student passions and unique personalities are celebrated within a strong collaborative approach where students work together and feel comfortable with being themselves. Brockton models what it means to be human and mistakes are seen as opportunities for growth. Our teachers encourage students to navigate the world around them and problem solve, in a safe, caring environment.
The PYP focuses on the total growth of the developing child, touching hearts as well as minds, and encompassing social, physical, emotional, and cultural needs in addition to academic development. Through inquiry, students develop an understanding of important concepts, acquire essential skills and knowledge, develop positive attitudes, and learn to take socially responsible action.
The programme encompasses the latest research in teaching and learning, enabling teachers to use learning strategies appropriate for the needs of individual students. During the primary years, students build knowledge and understanding through inquiries into six trans-disciplinary themes of global significance, supported and balanced by six subject areas. We encourage students to become active, socially responsible, compassionate and lifelong learners who understand that other people, with their differences, can also be right. The curriculum is structured around three interrelated questions:
What do we want to learn? The written curriculum that incorporates preparation and planning.
How best will we learn? The taught curriculum that takes advantage of innovative teaching strategies.
How will we know what we have learned? The learned curriculum that includes individual assessments.
Highlights of the Programme
STAFF TO STUDENT RATIOS
Brockton maintains an outstanding ratio of staff:students, resulting in more professional attention and guidance per child and family.
COMPREHENSIVE SUPPORT NETWORK
Brockton maintains an expansive Student Services department and support network. Among other things, the Student Services team provides personal counselling, learning resource support (gifted and learning difference needs), social-emotional learning support, mental health guidance, and more.
SPECIALIST STAFF
Specialist staff are engaged in distinct areas including: Languages, Art, Music, Applied Design Skills and Technology, Physical Education, and Outdoor Education.
COMMUNITY ACTION
Community Action is an important aspect of learning at Brockton School for all ages/stages. At Brockton everybody, regardless of age/stage, is a somebody and has opportunity to be a difference maker. Students are encouraged to explore and pursue areas of interest and passion as they delve into their personal and social responsibilities. Among other opportunities in leadership and community action, Grade 5 students participate in the PYP Exhibition as the culminating, collaborative experience in the final year of the IB Primary Years Programme. Students will explore, document, and share their understanding of an issue or opportunity of personal significance.
Extra and Co-Curricular Learning
Scheduled before or after school, Brockton offers an extra/co-curricular program which provides an extension of our already comprehensive programming and supports the goal of encouraging students to become active, compassionate learners while gaining knowledge and skills that complement the IB curriculum. This programming is made possible by the efforts of our own dedicated teachers as well as experienced community members and organizations. Examples of programs include: Bricks for Kids, STEAM, Fencing, Yoga, Mindful Kids, Destination Imagination, Junior Student Leadership, and Girls with Grit.
AFTER SCHOOL CARE (CUB CLUB)
Brockton School’s After School Care – Cub Club – is overseen by Brockton’s School Administration and is delivered by an in-house team of professionals who hold an appreciation for the philosophy and expectation of Brockton School’s educational programming. Cub Club supports a safe and inclusive environment that focusses on friendship, play, and fun. Activities are designed with student interests in mind and might include, but are not limited to:
Outdoor/ Gymnasium physical play activities.
Guided arts, crafts, STEM activities and more as appropriate.
Unstructured choice time for group play, socializing, reading, and/or homework.
