Dear Families

About a year ago, we started looking more closely at how we could bring inquiry-based learning into our classrooms. It felt like a natural next step from the thematic approach we have been using for some time. It also links directly to Goal 1 of our school’s strategic plan – to help our pupils become innovative problem-solvers. We know that solving problems starts with being able to ask good questions, think things through, and explore ideas properly.

So, what is inquiry-based learning?

At its heart, it is all about curiosity. It encourages children to ask questions, investigate topics in depth, and figure things out for themselves. It moves them from just listening and remembering to really thinking and making sense of things. It is a powerful way to help them learn how to learn. That said, inquiry is just one of the methods we use in our classrooms. Our teachers still teach skills directly, use group work, run projects, and make time for good old-fashioned practice and consolidation. Therefore, inquiry-based learning is simply one of the available tools our teachers can use, depending on what the best fit is for what they are trying to teach and achieve.

One of the biggest benefits of inquiry is how well it helps children connect ideas, ask better questions, and think critically and creatively. It also gets them working together, listening to one another, and solving problems as a team. Of course, teachers are still very much in control, with carefully planned lessons built around clear learning outcomes. The teacher guides the process from start to finish, and there is plenty of room for the children to explore within well-structured boundaries.

The International Baccalaureate (IB) Curriculum is a world-renowned educational framework that places a strong emphasis on inquiry-based learning. It promotes deep thinking, reflection, and meaningful engagement with real-world concepts. It is reassuring to see that this global curriculum supports the same kind of approach we are working towards – one that encourages children to explore, question, and make sense...

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