Curriculum
Compass International School Doha prepares students to meet the growing challenges of a rapidly changing world. Our academic programme is based on:
- The International Primary Curriculum (IPC) in Early Years and Primary
- The UK National Curriculum in Lower Secondary
- The International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) in Upper Secondary
- Coming soon - The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) for university entrance
The combination of these distinctive curricula provides a comprehensive, international programme of study which aims to equip every student with the essential skills for lifelong learning and meet individual learning needs. CISD encourages independence and self-discipline in an atmosphere of mutual respect and appreciation of diverse opinions and cultures. CISD's curriculum determines the precise content that will be taught and provides targets for student learning, including how that performance will be assessed and reported. The school's programme gives teachers, students and parents a clear and shared understanding of the knowledge, skills and understanding that children will gain at school.
Early Years
Students in Early Years Classes 1 and 2 (ages 3 to 5) follow the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) Early Years Programme. It is a curriculum that not only acts as a transition between home and school but also starts children off with the learning habits necessary to become successful lifelong learners. The IPC Early Years programme is firmly rooted in good practice for young children.
CISD's belief is that:
- The overriding purpose of Early Years education is to help children develop the skills and attitudes they will need both at this level and throughout a lifetime of learning.
- Children need a holistic educational experience that doesn't create artificial boundaries between different aspects of their development.
- Play is an essential part of children's learning and general development.
The activities undertaken by children ages 3 to 5 help them work towards the subject, personal and international goals of the IPC Main Programme which is undertaken in the primary school. The IPC Early Years Programme offers the Learning Strands, outlining the four key areas of learning - Independence and Interdependence, Communicating, Exploring and Healthy Living.
You can review the Early Years Learning Goals here.
Primary School
The International Primary Curriculum (IPC) provides the framework for educating students in Years 1 to 6 (ages 5 to 11). The IPC is a cross-curricular, rigorous teaching programme that integrates history, geography, science, art, music, physical education, information communication technology and design technology into thematic units and provides links to English and Mathematics. Children spend three to six weeks on Units of Work which are based around interdisciplinary themes of real interest to children so they are engaged and enthusiastic. This extended period of study allows students to approach topics from multiple perspectives and to make connections between subjects. Focusing on three standards – academic, personal development and international mindedness – the IPC provides a creative system that prepares children, wherever they may live in the future, for the world of tomorrow.
Fundamental to the IPC approach to learning is a clear progression in skill development. This even applies to the personal learning goals which emphasise adaptability, resilience, thoughtfulness, cooperation and respect and which, as a result of progressive skill development, help children to become able, confident and inspired learners. Internationalism is embedded into every IPC unit to ensure that CISD children grow up with a very clear global understanding. The IPC provides a well-defined framework which sets standards that measure how children are performing in each subject, helping teachers ensure high overall student performance.
You can review our IPC Route Plan here - this shows the units we use in Early Years and Primary.
You can review our Primary Curriculum Standards here.
Lower Secondary
The National Curriculum for England forms the basis of study for all students in Years 7 to 9 (ages 11 to 14). Students at this stage have specialist teachers for all subjects, as they begin the transition from primary to high school. The National Curriculum is a comprehensive course of study that includes different subjects: English, mathematics, science, history, geography, modern foreign languages, information communication technology, art and design, music, citizenship and physical education. Subjects in the National Curriculum are delivered in a circular method so that topics are returned to in a way that allows students to make connections between varied topics. Learning at all ages is differentiated based on the individual needs of children, including ability and background.
You can review our Key Stage 3 Programme here.
Upper Secondary
Students in Years 10 and 11 will continue to follow the National Curriculum through International General Certificates of Secondary Education (IGCSEs) Students follow a broad range of ten two-year IGCSE courses and are evaluated on coursework and/or exam work at the end of the two years. These rigorous courses require students to independently prepare course-work, monitor their own progress and study subjects in depth. The IGCSEs are excellent preparation for the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) which CISD expects to offer to students in Years 12 and 13. The IBDP has an international reputation as a highly rigorous academic course that does an excellent job of preparing students for university. Students in the IBDP take courses in six academic areas and must complete required service hours, an extended essay and a course in the Theory of Knowledge.
You can review our Key Stage 4 Programme here.
More information about the CISD curriculum can be found at:
International Primary Curriculum (IPC)
International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE)
International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP)
