How the International Primary Curriculum builds strong and connected learning

Many primary classrooms can appear engaging on the surface, with colourful displays, themed activities, and active students. For parents, however, the more important question is whether this visible activity translates into strong, structured learning over time. 

Nord Anglia School Jakarta (NAS Jakarta) combines the English National Curriculum (ENC), which provides clear foundations in literacy, numeracy and statutory benchmarks, with the International Primary Curriculum (IPC), which brings those foundations to life through inquiry-led, thematic and project-based learning. This blended approach ensures ENC standards are met while the IPC nurtures curiosity, connects subjects across meaningful themes, and helps children apply knowledge in real-world contexts. 
 
The IPC framework leads children on a learning journey, sequencing themes and ideas to enable them to build knowledge, skills and understanding throughout a unit. 

 

A curriculum designed around how children learn 

 

One of the defining features of the IPC curriculum is that it is organised around interconnected thematic units, not isolated subject lessons. Rather than teaching subjects in separate silos, each IPC unit brings together learning objectives from different disciplines so children explore a single theme from multiple angles.  

David Webb, Milepost Leader and IPC campaign leader, explains the structure clearly. “The IPC is organised into learning units that link across a theme, whilst still ensuring that each subject is taught with clear knowledge, skills and understanding goals.” 
 
For example, younger students may explore differences in celebrations, music and food from around the world, linking these to their own community experiences. Meanwhile, older students will examine topics like trade, migration, and environmental issues, as well as how peers globally are using technology responsibly. 

This approach supports inquiry-based learning by encouraging children to explore connections between subjects. At the same time, it avoids the common concern that thematic learning lacks depth. Each subject retains its own progression, ensuring that knowledge is systematically built over time. In addition, by combining the IPC and English National Curriculum, it ensures students meet key benchmarks. 

 

Project-based learning with clear academic outcomes 

 

Project-based learning is often associated with creativity and collaboration, but its effectiveness depends on how well it is structured. 

Within the IPC, projects are not open-ended tasks without direction. They are carefully designed to develop specific knowledge and skills.  

“Teachers and students have a clear sense of what knowledge needs to be secured and the sequencing of key skills over time,” David Webb explains. 

This clarity ensures that project-based learning contributes directly to academic progress. Students are not only completing activities, but building a secure foundation across science, history, and geography. 

It also supports deeper understanding. By revisiting concepts in different contexts, students are able to apply their knowledge rather than simply recall it. 

 

Student-centred learning that develops independence 

 

A strong curriculum does not only deliver content. It also shapes how students think, question, and engage with their learning. 

At NAS Jakarta, student-centred learning is embedded within the IPC framework. Children are encouraged to ask questions, explore ideas, and take increasing ownership of their learning journey. 

“Through IPC, students are encouraged to think critically, make connections between areas of study, and understand the world around them,” says David Webb. 

Collaborative learning plays a key role in this process. Students work together to solve problems, share perspectives, and build understanding collectively. This develops not only academic skills, but also communication and teamwork. 

At the same time, NAS Jakarta teachers provide structure and guidance to ensure that independence does not come at the expense of clarity or progress. 

 

Assessment that supports continuous progress 

 

Understanding real learning quality also requires clarity around assessment. Parents need to know how progress is measured and how teaching responds to each child’s development. 
 
Teachers are continuously using formative assessment, checking understanding through discussions, written work and observation. This allows them to adjust their teaching quickly and respond to what each child needs. 

This ongoing assessment ensures that gaps are identified early and addressed effectively. Summative assessments then provide clear checkpoints to evaluate overall progress against expected standards. 

Because assessment is closely aligned with the curriculum, it reflects not only what students know, but how well they can apply their knowledge across different contexts. 

 

A holistic approach that prepares students for the future 

 

A key strength of the IPC curriculum is its focus on holistic education. Academic achievement is developed alongside personal and international understanding. 

“IPC is unique in its focus on both subject content and personal and international aspirations,” David Webb explains. “It encourages students to think about the world they live in and their place within it.” 

This emphasis on international-mindedness ensures that students are not only prepared for exams, but for a global context. They learn to consider different perspectives, understand global issues, and develop a broader awareness of the world around them. 

For families evaluating primary education, this provides reassurance that learning is not only strong in the present, but relevant for the future. 

 

A clear standard for real learning quality 

 

The International Primary Curriculum offers more than an engaging classroom experience. It provides a structured, evidence-informed approach to learning that balances academic rigour with meaningful connection. 

At Nord Anglia School Jakarta, this ensures that every lesson contributes to a coherent learning journey. Knowledge is built systematically, skills are developed progressively, and students are supported to think independently and critically. 

For parents seeking clarity, the distinction is clear. A strong education is not defined by how it looks, but by how well it develops understanding over time. 

Families who would like to explore how the IPC is delivered in practice are always welcome to speak with the academic team and gain a deeper insight into how learning is structured, assessed, and supported at NAS Jakarta.