Principal's Weekly Update 08 7 Key Concepts

Dear PYP Parents,

I hope you’ve had a great week so far! The last week has been a very special one at Concordia International School Ningbo—from K0 all the way through Grade 5, our students took their learning beyond the classroom on exciting and meaningful field trips.

Field trips are a powerful way to deepen inquiry. They help students connect what they’re learning to the world around them, ask authentic questions, and engage with the Key Concepts in action.

Key Concepts in the Real World

These seven Key Concepts guide all of our learning:

• Form – What is it like?

• Function – How does it work?

• Causation – Why is it like this? 

• Change – How is it changing?

• Connection – How is it connected to other things? 

• Perspective – What are the different points of view?

• Responsibility – What is our responsibility?

Recently, as the children explored nature parks, historical sites, farms, and community centres, they were asking big questions like:

• “How does the environment affect how people live?”

       （Connection）

• “Why do different animals live in different habitats?”

       （Causation）

• “What can we do to protect our community and planet?”

       （Responsibility）

These experiences bring learning to life. Field trips support the PYP’s goal of inquiry-based, transdisciplinary education, helping children make connections, develop skills, and take meaningful action.

 How You Can Extend the Learning

You can help reinforce your child’s experience by asking reflective questions at home: 

• “What did you see or learn today that surprised you?”

• “What connections did you make with what you’re learning at school?”

• “What would you like to learn more about?”

Wishing You a Restful Qing Ming Holiday

As we head into the Qing Ming holiday (Friday to Sunday), we hope you and your family enjoy a peaceful, reflective, and refreshing break. Whether you’re travelling or spending time at home, we encourage you to keep the spirit of inquiry alive—look, listen, and wonder together.

We look forward to welcoming all of our students back on Monday, April 7th, ready for another week of joyful learning.

Thank you, as always, for your continued partnership.

Ian Barnes

Principal

Concordia International School Ningbo