Making the PYP happen by Ayanthi Leslie

This workshop has been a transformative experience for me, deepening my understanding of the PYP program. As someone who is new to the PYP curriculum, it has truly challenged me to step out of my comfort zone and pushed me to expand my knowledge in ways I hadn’t anticipated. One key takeaway from the workshop is the significance of applying the learner profile attributes, the Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills, international-mindedness, and language in a holistic way. These aspects are not just theoretical concepts, but practical tools that empower students to be curious, reflective, and globally-minded individuals.

As an IB school, we place great emphasis on nurturing students to experience the world beyond textbooks. The PYP encourages a more experiential approach to learning, where students are challenged to explore, question, and engage with real-world issues. This focus on active learning makes them not only lifelong learners but also critical thinkers and problem solvers. It is particularly impactful in my classroom, where I work with students from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds. Every day, I am presented with the challenge and opportunity to meet the needs of multilingual learners, which is both exciting and rewarding.

The practical application of the learner profile, along with a focus on international-mindedness and language, gives me the tools I need to support these students. The diversity in my classroom enriches the learning experience and forces me to constantly reflect on my teaching practices and adapt to meet the varying needs of each student. This workshop has truly helped me see the bigger picture of how the PYP fosters not only academic growth but also emotional and social development in an increasingly interconnected world. It is this commitment to reflective practice and cultural responsiveness that allows me to connect with my students and better support their learning journey.

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