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International Baccalaureate

Primary Years Programme (PYP)

The Walden School is a Candidate School* for the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme. The Walden School is pursuing authorization as an IB World School. These are schools that share a common philosophy - a commitment to high-quality, challenging, international education that The Walden School believes is important for our students. The International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme is a globally recognized framework that nurtures the whole child, academically, socially, and emotionally. As an IB Candidate School, Walden is preparing to join a network of inquiry-driven schools that inspire lifelong learners.

*Only schools authorized by the IB Organization can offer any of its four academic programmes: the Primary Years Programme (PYP), the Middle Years Programme (MYP), the Diploma Programme (DP), or the Career-related Programme (CP).  Candidate status gives no guarantee that authorization will be granted. For further information about the IB and its programmes, visit IBO.org.

 

What Is the Primary Years Programme?

The PYP empowers students aged 6–12 to take charge of their learning through:

  • Inquiry-Based Units: Transdisciplinary themes that connect classroom study to real-world issues.
  • Approaches to Learning: Explicit development of research, communication, social, self-management, and thinking skills.
  • Learner Profile: Attributes such as open-mindedness, risk-taking, and caring that shape responsible, global citizens.
  • Action & Service: Student-led projects that address local challenges and foster empathy.

Why IB PYP at The Walden School?

The International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (PYP) resonates deeply with Walden’s commitment to whole-child development. Rather than teaching discrete subjects in isolation, PYP transdisciplinary units invite students to explore big ideas, like community, change, and stewardship, through the lens of language, math, science, and the arts. This integrated approach not only builds strong foundational knowledge but also sparks genuine curiosity. Our youngest learners quickly discover that school isn’t a collection of silos, but a connected, meaningful world they can investigate, question, and shape.

Becoming an IB Candidate School means Walden is joining a global network of passionate educators and schools—more than 2,000 strong, who share a vision of preparing students for a rapidly changing world. Our teachers receive specialized PYP training, collaborate with peers around the globe, and bring back fresh strategies for inquiry-driven instruction.

Our Unique Distinction in Pennsylvania

When fully authorized, Walden will stand out not only as one of Pennsylvania’s very few independent school PYP providers but as the only independent school in the state to blend Montessori in PK–K with IB PYP in grades 1–5. This seamless progression under one roof gives our students a unique advantage: a trusting, student-centered beginning followed by a robust, inquiry-rich curriculum that readies them intellectually, socially, and emotionally for the challenges and opportunities of middle school and beyond.

Benefits for Walden Students & Families

Combining Montessori and IB PYP at Walden delivers a seamless, child-centered progression:

  • Continuity of Philosophy: A smooth transition from Montessori’s self-directed discovery in PK–K to IB’s guided inquiry in grades 1–5.
  • Global Mindedness: Early exposure to intercultural understanding and ethical responsibility.
  • Strong Foundation: Hands-on learning plus transdisciplinary projects build critical thinking and collaboration skills.
  • Preparation for Middle School and Beyond: Graduates emerge with a robust skill set that stands out in any enrollment process.

Our Path to Authorization

As a PYP Candidate, Walden is engaged in:

  • Professional development workshops for teachers in IB methodology
  • Curriculum mapping to align Montessori and IB standards
  • Collaborative planning with IB consultants and regional IB schools
  • Community information sessions for families and stakeholders

We look forward to achieving full authorization and celebrating our students as they thrive in this world-class program.