Guided by the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP), our primary levels provide a rigorous, developmentally responsive learning pathway enriched through the Ontario Ministry of Education Ontario Curriculum, ensuring both international alignment and academic depth.

Literacy and numeracy remain central pillars of learning in the primary years. In literacy, students develop strong foundational and advanced skills in reading, writing, speaking, and listening through research-informed approaches, including Jolly Phonics support and tailored literacy studies in lower primary, progressing to structured literacy practices across upper primary grades in preparation for secondary school.

Mathematics instruction is delivered through White Rose Maths, IB PYP-aligned mathematics resources, and progressive focus groups, unique to CIST, providing a coherent, concept-driven approach that emphasises problem-solving, mathematical reasoning, and real-world application.

A strong and deliberate focus on Science and Social Studies further distinguishes our Primary programme. Through inquiry-based science, students engage in hands-on investigations, experimentation, and evidence-based reasoning, developing scientific literacy and an understanding of the natural and designed world. Learning experiences emphasise the scientific method, sustainability, innovation, and responsible action, empowering students to think critically about global and local challenges.

In Social Studies, students explore history, geography, civics, and global perspectives through rich, inquiry-driven units. They examine how societies function, how cultures shape identity, and how historical events influence the present. By analysing multiple perspectives and engaging in authentic research, students develop a strong sense of global citizenship, intercultural understanding, and social responsibility, key attributes of internationally minded learners.

Across all grade levels, transdisciplinary units of inquiry integrate literacy, numeracy, science, and social studies in meaningful and connected ways. Students are encouraged to ask purposeful questions, collaborate with peers, and apply their learning to real-world contexts, strengthening both critical and creative thinking.

To support our diverse international community, English as an Additional Language (EAL) Intensives are offered to identified students through an approach aligned with the Ontario Curriculum. These targeted interventions strengthen students’ academic language proficiency across reading, writing, and oral communication, enabling full and confident engagement with classroom learning. This support is provided at no additional cost, reflecting CIST’s commitment to inclusive and equitable access to learning.

Learning extends well beyond the classroom. Students deepen and broaden their interests through an extensive selection of Extra-Curricular Activities (ECAs) and structured annual after-school programmes. These opportunities include academic enrichment in science and mathematics, social impact initiatives, creative arts, sport, leadership, and global citizenship projects. Our after-school programmes reinforce classroom learning while nurturing curiosity, teamwork, resilience, and personal passions.

While firmly grounded in the IB PYP framework, CIST places strong emphasis on continuity and progression. Purposeful collaboration with the Secondary School ensures that Upper Primary students are academically and socially prepared for the transition into the next phase of their learning journey. These collaborative initiatives support alignment in curriculum expectations, approaches to learning, and student well-being.

At CIST, highly qualified teachers foster a culture of respect, inclusion, and international-mindedness. Working in partnership with families, we support each learner to develop confidence, independence, and a lifelong love of learning. Through high academic standards, a strong emphasis on science and social understanding, and a deep commitment to student well-being, CIST prepares students to thrive in an increasingly complex and interconnected world.