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Primary Curriculum

From Kindergarten to Grade 5, children follow a curriculum that draws on the best of the Canadian Ontario, English National, and Italian programmes. Our inquiry-based approach to learning encourages students to develop strong character and adopt positive values through the fundamentals of core subjects as follows:

English Language 

Our English programme, based on the Cambridge Primary Curriculum, builds strong foundations in reading, writing, speaking and listening through a rich and engaging approach. Children develop a love of language as they explore stories, poetry and non-fiction, while also learning to express their own ideas with clarity and creativity. Lessons focus on phonics, grammar, vocabulary and comprehension, ensuring that students gain both accuracy and confidence in their communication. Through class discussions, presentations and written tasks, students learn to think critically, listen respectfully and use English as a tool for inquiry and imagination, preparing them for success in all areas of learning. 

Mathematics

Our Mathematics programme, based on the Cambridge Primary Curriculum, helps students build a strong understanding of numbers, shapes, and patterns through an engaging and practical approach. Children learn to think logically, solve problems, and apply their knowledge to real-life situations. Lessons combine hands-on activities with clear explanations to develop confidence and enjoyment in maths. As they move through the programme, students strengthen their skills in number, measurement, geometry, and data handling, while also learning to reason, explain their thinking, and work both independently and collaboratively.

ICT & Coding

Our ICT and Coding programme introduces students to the digital world in a safe, creative, and engaging way. Children learn to use technology confidently and responsibly as they explore a range of digital tools for learning, communication, and creativity. They develop essential skills in typing, research, and presentation, while also beginning to understand how computers work. Through coding activities, students learn to think logically, spot patterns, and design simple programs that bring their ideas to life. By combining problem-solving with creativity, our programme helps students become capable, curious, and responsible digital citizens.

History, Geography, World Religions 

Our integrated Humanities programme helps students understand the world and their place within it. Through the study of History, children explore significant events, people, and civilizations, learning how the past has shaped the present. In Geography, they investigate the natural and human features of our planet, developing map skills, discovering diverse cultures, and understanding how environments connect across the globe. World Religions introduces children to different beliefs and traditions, encouraging respect, empathy, and open-mindedness. Together, these subjects inspire curiosity, critical thinking, and a sense of global awareness, helping students appreciate both the shared and diverse experiences of humankind.

Science & STEAM

Our Science and STEAM programme invites students to explore, question, and discover the world around them through hands-on learning and experimentation. Following the Cambridge Primary Science framework, children investigate living things, materials, and physical processes while developing essential scientific skills such as observation, prediction, and inquiry. Learning comes to life in our dedicated STEAM Lab, a dynamic space equipped with the latest tools for robotics, engineering, and scientific investigation, as well as live plants and reptiles that enrich lessons in biology and environmental science. Through this exciting, interdisciplinary approach, students learn to think like scientists and innovators, connecting curiosity with creativity to understand how science shapes our everyday world.

Physical Education

Our Physical Education programme, focuses on developing active, healthy, and confident learners. Students build fundamental movement skills, teamwork, and sportsmanship through a wide range of physical activities and games. Lessons are designed to promote fitness, coordination, and a lifelong love of sport, while also teaching the importance of respect, cooperation, and fair play. From gymnastics and dance to team sports and outdoor activities, children learn how physical activity supports both physical and mental well-being. Our aim is to help every student discover the joy of movement and the value of an active, balanced lifestyle.

French

Our French programme is designed to make language learning engaging, purposeful, and accessible to all students. Children receive between one and three lessons per week, progressing steadily toward an A1 level of the Common European Framework by the end of Grade 5. Lessons focus on building confidence in speaking, listening, reading, and writing through songs, games, stories, and interactive activities. To support every learner, we also offer an afterschool Beginner French sessions for new students and a dedicated French A programme for native or fluent French speakers. Our goal is to help every child develop a love for languages and the ability to communicate with confidence in an international context.

Italian

Italian at CSM is taught through two tailored pathways to meet the needs of both native and international learners. Italian Lingua 1 (Idoneità Preparation) is designed for native or near-native speakers and follows the Italian national curriculum standards, focusing on reading comprehension, grammar, creative writing, and cultural literacy. As CSM is a non-paritaria international school, students in this pathway are prepared for the Idoneità exam at the end of Grade 5, ensuring they meet Italian Ministry of Education requirements. Italian Lingua 2 supports international students learning Italian as an additional language, helping them develop vocabulary, listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills through engaging and practical lessons. Both programmes aim to build confidence and appreciation for Italian language and culture within our bilingual school community.

Music & Drama

Music and Drama play a vital role in our Primary curriculum, nurturing creativity, confidence, and self-expression. Taught as separate subjects, both programmes encourage students to explore rhythm, movement, voice, and performance. Depending on their grade level, children take part in a variety of concerts, plays, and showcases throughout the year, developing teamwork and stage presence while celebrating their achievements with the school community. In Music, students learn to sing, play instruments, and appreciate a wide range of musical styles. In Drama, they build confidence through role-play, storytelling, and performance. To further support individual talent, private music tuition is also available, allowing students to deepen their skills in their chosen instrument.

Art & Design

Art and Design at CSM inspire creativity, imagination, and confidence in every child. Lessons take place in our vibrant Art Atelier, a dedicated creative space where students explore a variety of media including painting, drawing, sculpture, and mixed materials. Through hands-on projects, children learn key artistic techniques while expressing their own ideas and emotions. Regular visits and workshops from guest artists give students the chance to experiment with new styles and gain insight into real artistic practice. Our aim is to help each child develop both skill and appreciation for art as a powerful form of personal and cultural expression.

Personal, Social, Health & Economic education

Our PSHE programme supports students’ personal growth, well-being, and understanding of the world around them. Through age-appropriate discussions and activities, children learn about friendship, kindness, respect, health, safety, and emotional awareness. They also begin to understand basic economic concepts such as needs and wants, saving, and responsibility. The programme helps students develop confidence, empathy, and resilience, encouraging them to make thoughtful choices and build positive relationships. Rooted in our school values, PSHE ensures that every child feels valued, supported, and equipped with the life skills needed to thrive in and beyond school.

Curriculum highlights include: .

  • Curricular ice skating, swimming and a variety of external sports experiences.
  • Specialist lessons in Physical Education, Music,Drama, French, Italian, Library. 
  • Weekly assemblies to foster community spirit, promote school values and explore global themes.
  • Outdoor learning is embedded across the Primary program with various outings including hiking excursions and overnight camping retreats.