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IB PYP Curriculum
IB PYP Early Years Programme (Ages 3–6)
A Play-Based Curriculum that Nurtures Creativity and Holistic Development
At Cochins, the Early Years mark the beginning of every child’s IB PYP journey. Starting from age 3 in the Foundation Year and continuing through our Early Years Programme (ages 4–6), we celebrate curiosity, imagination, and growth through a rich play-based approach. These first years are a time of wonder and discovery, and our programme ensures that each child’s earliest school experiences are filled with joy, confidence, and meaningful learning.
About the Program

The IB Early Years curriculum is designed to support the whole child—cognitively, socially, emotionally, and physically. By recognising children as capable, creative, and resourceful learners, the programme empowers them to develop at their own pace. With play placed at the heart of inquiry, children are partners in their own learning journey, building independence, confidence, and a lifelong love for discovery.

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Pre – K - The Foundation Year (Ages 3–4)

A warm and joyful beginning that builds the roots of lifelong learning… We foster a child-centred environment where children have time to be curious, ask questions, explore, and experiment. While doing so, they learn valuable social skills and develop their sense of self in a secure and nurturing space. In the Pre School, every child is given opportunities to learn through play, harnessing their natural curiosity and creativity to build confidence—the key to thriving as they grow.
The Foundation Year framework is research-backed and carefully designed to provide children with meaningful choices, encouraging them to take ownership of their learning. The programme delivers a holistic learning experience, integrating socio-emotional, cognitive, and physical development. Children are guided to approach challenges with problem-solving skills, rather than relying on rote or textbook-style learning. This focus on agency and self- driven learning ensures that each child develops the foundations to construct their own understanding and grow into an independent, confident learner.

Early Years
KG 1 & KG 2 - (Ages 4–6): Growing Through Inquiry

Building on the strong foundation of the Foundation Year, children move seamlessly into the wider Early Years programme in Kindergarten 1 and Kindergarten 2 (ages 4–6). At this stage, playful learning evolves into purposeful inquiry: Units of Inquiry that connect concepts across subjects. Collaborative projects that encourage teamwork and creativity. Opportunities for independence in presenting and reflecting on learning. Holistic development of social, emotional, and self-management skills.

Enrichment in the Early Years

From swimming to music, dance, art, ICT, and physical education, our Early Years curriculum blends specialist teaching with play-based inquiry to nurture the whole child—ensuring a balanced, joyful, and holistic foundation for lifelong learning.

Learning Spaces Educators

Our qualified IB educators design safe, vibrant, and flexible learning spaces where children feel secure and inspired. Bright classrooms, open areas, and thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces provide endless opportunities for exploration and growth. With nurturing guidance and encouragement, every child is supported to discover their unique potential.

Why Start Early?

The Early Years are a once-in-a-lifetime window of growth and development.Beginning at age 3 in the Foundation Year ensures children gain the confidence, skills, and curiosity that set the stage for all future learning. Rooted in the IB philosophy, our programme gives every child a joyful beginning and a strong foundation for lifelong success. The Early Years Programme at Cochins—where every child’s journey begins with wonder, play, and endless possibility.

 

FAQ
An inquiry-based, concept-driven approach ensures a sustaining relationship.

One-to-One Attention: Nurturing Each Child’s Global Journey We are committed to pursuing excellence by offering individual attention to every child.Our passionate IB facilitators create a warm, supportive environment where each child is encouraged to explore, ask questions, and discover their unique skills and talents. Through individual attention, children experience the joy of learning at their own pace. This approach not only helps them develop a love of learning but also prepares them to think critically and embrace different perspectives. By fostering curiosity and creativity in these early years, we are helping children build a strong foundation for becoming global citizens, ready to thrive in a connected and ever-changing world.

At COCHINS, we proudly follow the IB Primary Years Programme (IB PYP), a research-based curriculum designed to cultivate engaged and independent thinkers. Our programs are tailored to promote growth and development in all areas of a child's life. Through individualized learning experiences and dedicated facilitation, we ensure that each child is guided toward reaching important milestones and achieving their full potential. At the heart of our approach is the belief that learning should be joyful, fostering not only academic success but also emotional well-being and creativity. We aim to inspire every child to embrace learning with enthusiasm, preparing them to leave our centre ready to make a positive difference in the world.

Academic Curriculum For Different Levels
We are an IB PYP & Cambridge International School
IB PYP Schools in India

The Early Years Programme at Cochin International School is meticulously crafted to ignite the natural curiosity in young learners. Rooted in the globally recognised Primary Years Programme (PYP) framework, this programme embodies the essence of inquiry-based learning, where students are encouraged to explore, question, and discover through an engaging play-based curriculum. This approach not only makes learning enjoyable but also deeply meaningful, as it taps into the innate inquisitiveness of children.

As one of the leading IB schools in India, the programme emphasises holistic development, catering comprehensively to the intellectual, emotional, and social needs of each child. During these formative years, students are introduced to international learning standards, ensuring they acquire the critical skills necessary to thrive in a rapidly changing and interconnected world. The PYP curriculum framework is designed to integrate various subjects seamlessly, allowing students to make meaningful connections and apply their learning in real-life contexts, thus enhancing their understanding and retention.

Inquiry-Based Learning and Play-Based Curriculum

The Early Years Programme is dedicated to nurturing confident, compassionate, and well-rounded individuals. Experienced educators at Cochin International School guide each child through a carefully planned journey of exploration, fostering a lifelong love for learning that extends beyond the classroom. The programme, offered in India, is not only focused on academic excellence but also on instilling essential values and life skills that contribute to the overall development of the child.

The IB Curriculum in India: Preparing for Global Success

Through creative play, collaborative projects, and guided inquiry, the programme prepares students to become inquisitive, reflective, and open-minded learners, equipped to take on the challenges of the future. This comprehensive approach, aligned with the IB curriculum, ensures that every child receives a balanced and enriched education. The PYP in India is designed to meet the diverse needs of early years education, offering a robust and nurturing foundation that supports growth and success in a global context.

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