Primary
CIS Primary School (7 to 11 years)
Where curiosity meets academic rigour and lifelong learning
The CIS Primary School is where young learners in Grades 1–6 develop curiosity, creativity, and confidence. Our internationally recognised Primary Years Programme (PYP) inspires inquiry, exploration, and deep understanding. Guided by expert teachers, children build the skills and mindset to thrive in an ever-changing world, becoming compassionate, capable, and globally minded learners.
Why choose CIS Primary school?
An international and rigorous curriculum
Underpinned by the Primary Years Programme (PYP) framework, our primary school curriculum supports each child in reaching their personal potential.
Our interdisciplinary, inquiry-based approach teaches students to take ownership and responsibility for their learning. They are able to think deeply about issues, work collaboratively and solve problems creatively.
Our rigorous curriculum delivered within the IB PYP framework, is concept based which means students can easily transfer knowledge and understanding not only between subject areas but between curriculums as they travel.
Our unique STEAM programme plays an integral part in every primary school students’ education. We have a dedicated STEAM teacher, resources and makerspaces for students to innovate, create, problem solve and engage in design thinking.
English language support
If English is not your first language we offer a Foundation programme that supports students to improve their English proficiency.
Language and culture
CIS offers daily language classes in French or Chinese and are placed in classes according to their proficiency. CIS also has two world-class bilingual programmes:
- Chinese–English Bilingual Programme
- French–English Bilingual Programme
These programmes offer an immersive approach with two homeroom teachers. Students have equal instruction in both languages and learn the curriculum through the language. This means no repetition of content and nurtures biliteracy. A critical component of our bilingual programmes is to ensure that students learn about, experience and appreciate the cultural heritage of both languages.
Primary FAQs
Commonly asked questions by parents.
What are the school day timings?
The Primary school day runs from 8.30am to 3.30pm, Monday to Friday. Each day includes structured learning blocks, specialist lessons, break times and lunch, with a balance of academic learning, play and wellbeing.
Sample timetable understanding of how many minutes for each subject
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What is the homework policy? How much will my child receive from Grade 1 to Grade 6?
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What sports will my child be able to be involved in?
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As a parent how often can I come into the school and join an activity?
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Are there any field trips?
Yes. CIS offers an outstanding Open Minds programme, where students extend and deepen their classroom learning through carefully designed outdoor experiences and real-world contexts around Singapore. These experiences help strengthen understanding, build curiosity and make learning meaningful and connected. From Grades 4 to 6, students also participate in excursions that focus on developing key skills such as independence, collaboration and responsibility, supporting both academic and personal growth.
What if my child struggles with a subject?
If a child experiences difficulty in an area of learning, teachers work closely with families to provide support. This may include differentiated instruction, targeted small-group support and collaboration with learning support specialists to ensure each child receives the help they need to succeed.
What age does Primary School start in Singapore?
Most international schools begin Primary at age 6, depending on the curriculum and grade system.
How will you help my child transition to primary school?
We provide a structured orientation programme to ensure every child feels comfortable, confident and ready for the next step in their learning journey. Includes: Orientation days, classroom visits, buddy system.
What curriculum do you use in your Primary School?
We follow an internationally recognised curriculum underpinned by the IB PYP framework that incorporates inquiry-based learning, concept-driven instruction and strong skill-building across subjects.
Is Mandarin taught in Primary School?
Yes. Students have access to Mandarin language classes or a full English–Mandarin bilingual programme based on proficiency and family preference.
How are students assessed?
Through a balance of formative assessments, projects, observations, portfolios and summative tasks that measure understanding and growth.
What is the average class size?
Class sizes are intentionally kept small to promote personalised learning and strong teacher–student relationships.
Do you offer support for students who need extra help?
Yes. Learning support specialists collaborate with teachers to provide targeted assistance.
What after-school activities are available?
A wide range of clubs—sports, arts, STEM, languages and special interest groups—are offered throughout the year.
How do you ensure student well-being?
Our pastoral care model ensures each child feels seen, valued and supported through SEL programmes, guidance staff and positive behaviour frameworks.
Canadian International School
