Nord Anglia Education
WRITTEN BY
NAIS Manila
11 February, 2026

The International Primary Curriculum at NAIS Manila: Learning Through Real-World Themes

The International Primary Curriculum at NAIS Manila: Learning Through Real-World Themes - International Primary Curriculum at NAIS Manila Learning Through Real-World Themes
International Primary Curriculum at NAIS Manila Learning Through Real-World Themes
Discover how the International Primary Curriculum at NAIS Manila uses real-world themes to connect learning across subjects and support deeper understanding in Primary students.  

The International Primary Curriculum at NAIS Manila: Learning Through Real-World Themes

At Nord Anglia International School Manila, the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) is designed to help students understand how different areas of learning connect. Rather than teaching subjects in isolation, the IPC uses real-world themes to provide context and meaning, allowing students to see how learning links across subjects. This approach supports deeper understanding and helps students make sense of what they are learning and why it matters.

 

The International Primary Curriculum at NAIS Manila: Learning Through Real-World Themes - International Primary Curriculum at NAIS Manila Learning Through Real-World Themes

 

Learning Through Real-World Themes

A key feature of the International Primary Curriculum is its use of thematic units. Topics such as Chocolate offer a shared context for learning, bringing together subjects like science, geography, history, and art. Through these themes, students explore concepts across subjects in a connected way. This helps them recognise relationships between ideas and apply their learning more meaningfully, rather than viewing each subject as a separate area of study.

Making Connections Across Subjects

Learning through real-world themes encourages students to think more broadly and make links between different areas of knowledge. As students move between subjects within a single theme, they develop a clearer understanding of how ideas connect and how learning applies beyond the classroom. This integrated approach supports curiosity, engagement, and a more holistic understanding of learning.

 

The International Primary Curriculum at NAIS Manila: Learning Through Real-World Themes - International Primary Curriculum at NAIS Manila Learning Through Real-World Themes

 

Supporting Thinking and Reflection

The IPC also places emphasis on helping students reflect on their learning. Carefully planned Entry Points and learning experiences encourage students to ask questions, think critically, and consider how they approach learning tasks. By developing awareness of their own thinking, students build confidence and independence from an early age.

A Connected Approach to Learning

By combining real-world themes with a structured and integrated curriculum, the International Primary Curriculum supports meaningful learning experiences for students. At NAIS Manila, this approach helps children develop understanding, curiosity, and confidence as they progress through their primary years.