Junior School (8 years to 11 years)

St. Nicholas Junior School provides a vibrant, caring, exciting, safe and educationally supportive learning environment. A learning environment where children are fuelled by a strong sense of inquiry through their own curiosity and their work with the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP). Where each child’s learning style is catered for and where the uniqueness of each individual is celebrated and learning is guided by the strengths and interests of each pupil. A learning environment which promotes the acquisition of knowledge, the development of transdisciplinary skills and the attitudes and attributes required to become skilled, motivated, life-long learners who are prepared to play a full and active role in an ever-changing world. An environment where pupils are encouraged, and given the support they require, to take action and make a difference to the communities that they belong to.

The Junior School begins at age seven when pupils enter Year 3 and finishes at age 11 when they leave Year 6. All Junior pupils are placed in classes with a qualified and experienced teacher and teaching assistant, ensuring a favourable adult: pupil ratios and an environment where the uniqueness of each individual is celebrated and learning is guided by the strengths and interests of each pupil.

The highest possible standard of education is offered following the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme, the British National Curriculum and the Brazilian ensino fundamental. The Junior School ensures that all pupils are provided with the opportunity to develop their full potential academically, physically and socially, and also we aim to develop students with an international perspective- students who are inquirers, thinkers, communicators, risk-takers, knowledgeable, principled, caring, open-minded, well balanced and reflective.

The curriculum is a blend of the content of the British National Curriculum and concepts and approach of the IB PYP. The pupils’ learning is guided by their previous experiences and based on inquiry as a vehicle for learning, taking into account what the child wants to learn and also recognizing that we are preparing children for the opportunities, responsibilities and experiences of life within an international context.

Pupils are taught in twelve subject areas by both their class teacher and specialist subject teachers and the curriculum is complemented by a broad range of extra-curricular activities, day and residential field trips and enrichment programs. Technology is embraced throughout the school to enhance teaching and learning.

At St.Nicholas we strongly believe that children must feel comfortable in a supportive learning environment where they are prepared to take risks and explore their world in an atmosphere of mutual respect and trust between teacher and pupil. There are specialist support departments for ESL, PFL and SEN to ensure that all pupils have the support and guidance they require to fulfil their potential.

Living in a global society of immense choice and diversity, the school endeavors to empower children to make decisions that are anchored on firm and positive values. These values enable our pupils to live effectively as well-informed citizens who are motivated to take action. The Junior Student Council provides an opportunity for pupils to make a difference. The Student Council is made up of pupil representatives from each class who are responsible for contributing towards the improvement of the school as well as local, national and global communities.