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NISC's Kindergarten/Grade One (“K/1”) is a composite class composed of children in both the Kindergarten and Grade One years. With the Northbridge International School’s being granted “Candidate” status for the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program, the administration at NISC has self-assessed how best to support inquiry-based learning in the Early Childhood Program. After much consideration and serious discussions with educators both at NISC and at other international schools, the concept of a K/1 Composite classroom has been adopted. With this program, students in kindergarten and grade 1 have been combined for classroom learning. There are many advantages related to this approach, including expanded student achievement, increased social interaction, the opportunity for a broader range of experiences for students and the opportunity for students to learn leadership skills.

Within the K/1 Composite classes at NISC, three teachers work collaboratively in developing inquiry-based learning experiences for students. A broad range of experiences allow for student growth, both independently and as a class. The multiage K/1 Composite class also allows students to work at their own rates and ability levels. The larger span of developmental ages in a classroom provides an increased opportunity for grouping activities based upon student skills and needs. Students are challenged to reach their highest potential. One of the most important benefits is that students are provided with the opportunity to both teach and learn from each other.

Having three K/1 Composite classes insures that there are three teachers and three teacher assistants who work closely together, designing, facilitating, and assessing student learning. Personal learning plans, team teaching, and inquiry-based learning activities maximize student interest and achievement. Primary Years Program.

The Primary Years Program is structured around 6 Units of Inquiry per grade level. In the units of Inquiry, the students inquiry into meaningful, relevant and significant concepts in the social studies and science areas. The other subject areas such as Literacy, Mathematics, Art, ICT, Music and Foreign Languages have their own curriculum but are taught as much as possible in the context of the Units of Inquiry.

In Kindergarten/Grade One (“K/1”), Teachers:
- Work with each student at his/her own developmental level, recognizing and accounting for different learning styles.
- Provide a nurturing atmosphere that supports the students emotional well being and positive social interaction in a multicultural setting.
- Provide an environment that encourages the development of a love for learning.
- Challenge each student to work towards his/her full potential.

Social and Personal Growth and Development
We strive to help our students achieve their full potential socially, intellectually, technically, artistically and physically. Students are taught to be respectful of themselves, to those around them and to the environment. They are encouraged to learn and apply rules in a kind and courteous manner. Students can work independently or cooperatively in groups. Their self-confidence and self-esteem are nurtured within the classroom. We expect our students to be actively involved in the learning process - to learn to follow directions, to be attentive when listening to others, to be responsible for completing work and to work independently on tasks. Each student is challenged to develop independent and positive work habits at his or her own developmental level. continued...