From the very beginning of primary education at Open Future, we implement the philosophy and methodology of the International Baccalaureate (IB) at the Primary Years Programme (PYP) level. This system differs significantly from the Polish education system but allows the Polish National Core Curriculum (MEN) to be delivered in a child-friendly way.

Open Future International School was established to educate conscious, well-rounded, and – above all – mature and independent young researchers, explorers, and citizens of the modern world. This educational model is supported by the philosophy of the international educational programme developed by the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO).

Founded in 1968 and regarded as one of the world’s leading educational foundations, IBO has developed three educational programmes for children aged 3–19: the Primary Years Programme (PYP), the Middle Years Programme (MYP), and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB Diploma), which concludes the cycle of education. Universities worldwide highly value IB Diploma graduates, recognizing the exceptional students they produce.

Open Future International School is an authorized IB World School for the Primary Years Programme. Since its inception, the school has been implementing the IB philosophy, methodology, and teacher training in this area.

The Primary Years Programme is designed for children aged 3–12, covering both kindergarten and primary school. Students work in small groups using interdisciplinary inquiry-based projects, which explore six thematic areas:

1. Who are we?
2. Our place in time and space
3. How do we express ourselves?
4. How the world is organized?
5. How we are organized?
6. Our planet

Through the implementation of projects, students acquire knowledge and skills across six subject groups:

• language
• mathematics
• sciences
• social studies
• arts
• physical, social and personal education

The international programme also emphasizes the development of attitudes in children. Each IB student is recognized for demonstrating the following traits, which are thereby made conscious to the children and reinforced:

INQUIRER

• asks questions and is not afraid to do so, understanding that this is a way to learn and gain knowledge from others

KNOWLEDGEABLE

• explores and acquires knowledge across different disciplines and is able to make connections between them. For example, studying history alone involves only memorizing dates and events; when combined with geography, students learn where these events took place; with psychology, they understand what motivated the actions of key figures; and with sociology, the social causes and effects become clear.

THINKER

• makes decisions not simply because “everyone else does” or because someone told them to, but reflects and seeks answers independently. Thinks critically, evaluating whether what they see and hear is true or a form of manipulation.

COMMUNICATOR

• is able to communicate effectively with others, shares ideas, and can resolve conflicts. When encountering someone with a different opinion, sees it as an opportunity to find common ground and discuss differences with mutual respect.

PRINCIPLED

• understands what is right, recognizes the importance of rules, and is aware of the consequences of not following them.

OPEN-MINDED

• listens to others, is tolerant, and values the diversity of the world. Understands that drawing from different cultures and perspectives can lead to the creation of remarkable ideas.

CARING

• cares for the world around them and the people in their local community, feels responsible for their environment, and is also able to accept support from others.

RISK–TAKER

• many people do not pursue their ideas and aspirations out of fear of failure, disappointment, or embarrassment. IB students understand that only those who do nothing never make mistakes, but at the same time, success cannot be achieved without trying and taking thoughtful risks.

BALANCED

• takes care of themselves and develops in three areas: intellectually, socially, and physically, understanding that true health and fulfillment come from growth in all aspects.

REFLECTIVE

• considers how to improve and whether they have made the right decisions, understanding that setbacks provide the best opportunity for growth and improvement.

Holistic teaching, collaborative work, and interdisciplinary project-based learning enable students to think independently and draw their own conclusions. They actively engage in various initiatives, are excellent observers, make choices on their own, and have their ideas and decisions respected. They are given time for reflection and to consider the world around them.

The culminating event of the Primary Years Programme is the PYP Exhibition.