Principal‘s Weekly Update 10 why we chose to become an IB school

Dear PYP Parents,

This week, several parents have asked a meaningful question:

Why did we choose to become an IB school?

Simply put, we believe the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) provides the strongest foundation for children—not just for academic success, but for life.

While many traditional curricula focus heavily on facts and tests, the IB goes deeper. It nurtures curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking, and teaches children how to learn, not just what to learn.

Through Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills like research, communication, and self-management, our students become more independent and capable learners. They learn to think conceptually, make connections across subjects, and develop a sense of international mindedness—appreciating different cultures, perspectives, and ways of thinking.

We chose IB because we want our children to become not just learners, but compassionate, reflective and globally aware citizens—ready to take action and make a difference.

Learning in Action – Planting a Tree in Aksu

Today’s school-wide charity event beautifully demonstrated this PYP spirit in action. Students, teachers, and families came together to raise money to plant trees in Aksu, supporting windbreak and ecological restoration efforts in northwestern China.

This initiative links easily with many of our current Units of Inquiry, as it invites students to consider how people and the planet are connected, and how individuals can take action for a more sustainable future.

Why support tree planting in Aksu? Because it helps children:

• Explore the link between ecosystems and human life

• Understand how small actions contribute to sustainable development
  

• Practise Learner Profile attributes like being knowledgeable and caring
  

It’s a meaningful way to turn learning into real-world impact.

Language is Culture – International Chinese Language Day

Today we also celebrated International Chinese Language Day. Students in K3 and Primary participated in activities and performances that explored the richness of Chinese language and culture.

Language is not just communication—it’s identity, heritage, and connection.

Through poetry, music, dance, drama, and storytelling, students developed:

• Confidence to express themselves in front of an audience

• Respect for their own and others’ cultures

• Risk-taking—a key Learner Profile attribute—by performing in public

We’re so proud of the enthusiasm and teamwork they showed today!

Thank You for Walking With Us

Whether through our curriculum, charity, or celebrations, we are always working to make learning real, relevant, and empowering. Thank you for being such an important part of this journey.

We wish you a relaxing weekend and look forward to welcoming students back next week, full of questions, creativity, and care.

Ian Barnes
Principal
Concordia International School Ningbo