Junior School Academics

IB Primary Years Programme

At the Junior School, we are proud to offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP) for students in Junior Kindergarten to Grade 5. 

The aim of the PYP is to provide a well-rounded education that sets the foundation for students to enjoy learning to the best of their ability and be well prepared for the next stage of their academic journey. The PYP focuses on guided inquiry as an ideal approach to learning. With an IB education, learning becomes engaging, relevant, challenging and significant when students are empowered to ask questions and participate fully in the learning process.

The PYP is structured around six transdisciplinary themes which allow students to explore who they are and their place in the world. According to a Global International Schools’ Research Study, results have shown that students not only outperform their peers in reading, writing and mathematics but also demonstrate high levels of emotional intelligence. Learn more about the PYP at ibo.org. 

In the final year of the PYP, our Grade 5 students participate in Exhibition -- an inter-disciplinary research paper and presentation showcase that is a culmination of the skills acquired during their time at the Junior School. Exhibition is a community event and it is a celebration of each student's achievement, acknowledging their transition from the primary to the middle school years.

Curriculum

Many resources have been used to develop The York School’s curriculum, including the Ontario Ministry of Education Elementary Curriculum, the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme’s Scope and Sequence documents and up-to-date pedagogical research.
Our teachers employ a variety of teaching strategies which enable our students to develop knowledge, skills and understanding that build from year to year.

The focus is on developing strong skills, knowledge and understanding in literacy, numeracy, critical thinking, research, problem-solving, communication and the arts. Our students are encouraged to become independent learners who are aware of their own strengths and talents.
To learn more, please review our Curriculum Guide below.
 

Junior School Curriculum Guide

About the York School

Canada's first gender-inclusive independent IB World School
The York School is a gender-inclusive JK to Grade 12 independent school located in the heart of Toronto. The York School was founded in 1965 and is the first school in Canada accredited to offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) from junior kindergarten (JK) to university entrance. As an IB World School, The York School's motto is Experientia Docet or Experience Teaches.

Contact Us

Junior School (Grades JK-5) 1639 Yonge Street Toronto, Ontario M4T 2W6 
 
Middle School (Grades 6-8) & Senior School (Grades 9-12) 1320 Yonge Street Toronto, Ontario M4T 1X2 
 
Mailing address: 1320 Yonge Street, Toronto, Ontario M4T 1X2
Attendance:
Junior School: 1639attendance@yorkschool.com
Middle & Senior School:
1320attendance@yorkschool.com

Admission:
For admission inquiries please contact:
admission@yorkschool.com

General Questions:
For general questions please contact:
reception@yorkschool.com