The campus breathes with the spirit of growth and inquiry in early summer. Grade 6 students at ASJ Foshan now celebrate their Primary Years Programme Exhibition (PYPX), alongside the Primary School Graduation Ceremony.
As a major milestone in the IB Primary Years Programme (IB PYP) journey, the PYP Exhibition serves as a culminating showcase of students’ inquiry-based learning throughout their primary years. It not only reflects their progress in knowledge, conceptual understanding, skill development and learner profile attributes, but also stands as a joyful learning celebration involving students, teachers and the wider school community.
This year, Grade 6 students turned their attention to real-world challenges. Inspired by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), they explored practical global issues: How can we achieve equitable education? How can we safeguard world peace? How do we build sustainable cities? How can we create more opportunities for innovation?
Diverse as these topics are, they all lead to one core question: How can we work together to build a better world?
The students then looked closely at events unfolding around them and across the globe. They explored how culture and traditions are passed down, and reflected on how peace and conflict shape people’s lives. They discussed fairness and justice, and examined how creativity drives social progress. They also studied the impact of artificial intelligence on future campuses, and looked into cultural heritage preservation, the spirit of inclusion in football, and multiculturalism within local communities.
Guided by their mentors, students actively applied PYP Approaches to Learning (ATLs) throughout the inquiry process. They conducted interviews and exchanged ideas using communication skills, and gathered information and analyzed cases with research skills. Their abilities in information processing, teamwork and presentation were steadily enhanced through practice.
Meanwhile, they linked their inquiries to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, reflecting on how to foster inclusion and respect in a multicultural context. In this way, learning extended beyond the classroom to the broader society.
Through ongoing group collaboration, research, idea sharing and repeated revisions, the students came to understand that every social issue involves diverse and complex perspectives, which require an open mind to comprehend, address and resolve.
During the PYPX theme presentations, seven student groups shared their inquiry journeys and learning outcomes respectively.
Through literature research, field investigations, expert interviews, community engagement and advocacy initiatives, students deepened their understanding of real-world issues and explored ways to bring positive changes to communities and society.
In this process, they have not only developed skills in research, communication, critical thinking and self-management, but also truly grasped the essence of Student Voice, Student Choice and Student Action.
With thorough preparations by Grade 6 teachers and students, the campus turned into an open and inclusive learning community. Students showcased their posters, models, interactive games and inquiry achievements, and shared their work in depth with visiting parents, teachers and fellow students. Guests moved between booths, listened closely to presentations, joined in interactive activities, asked thoughtful questions and put forward valuable suggestions.
The display boards feature research notes, survey results and action plans. They present not only final conclusions, but also the entire process in which students pose questions, revise viewpoints, gather evidence and reflect continuously.
These authentic records of learning make growth visible and ensure every student’s voice is heard.
The Grade 6 students also staged a wonderful original drama titled Forever Six. Through theatre, music and performances, they looked back on precious moments of their primary school journey. Blending humour, warmth and touching moments, the show fully demonstrated their creativity, confidence and teamwork skills. It was truly a special gift they presented to their primary school years.
Students from Grades 1 and 2 also delivered a lovely song and dance performance. With their pure voices and lively dances, they extended their sincerest wishes to the Grade 6 graduates.
PYPX is not only a showcase of students' learning outcomes, but also a learning journey accomplished with joint support from the school, families and the community.
A heartfelt video featuring parents' well-wishes was played during the ceremony. Warm messages and precious memories filled the venue with joy and affection. Afterwards, parents presented flowers to their children. Student representatives also presented bouquets to homeroom teachers and school leaders to express their gratitude and best regards.
Ms. Du, parent representative, delivered a speech that highlighted the significance of families and schools supporting children's growth side by side. From their timid days as new students to now being able to think independently, pursue inquiries proactively and express themselves bravely, the children have grown remarkably throughout their PYP journey. They have evolved into learners with genuine global perspectives and a strong sense of responsibility.
Throughout the PYP Exhibition, mentors offered students tremendous support, guidance and encouragement. At the event, Director of the Primary Section, Katy Zhang presented certificates and souvenir bears to the mentors, acknowledging their company and assistance during the inquiry journey.
Vice Principal Lam Pui Yee then extended her sincere wishes to all Grade 6 students. She encouraged them to uphold their spirit of inquiry and global mindset, and to take bold steps and keep growing in their future studies and lives.
The flag handover ceremony stood as the most symbolic moment of the exhibition. Grade 6 students solemnly passed the flag embodying the spirit of inquiry to their junior schoolmates. The flag represents far more than a token; it carries responsibilities and missions. The stories of curiosity, courage to explore and dedication to practice will continue to unfold at ASJ Foshan.
The PYP Exhibition marks both a concluding summary of one stage and a brand-new beginning ahead.
We strive to build an inclusive, diverse learning community where children inspire one another and grow hand in hand. What IB education brings to young learners goes far beyond the joy of learning—it fosters core abilities to ask thoughtful questions and pursue independent inquiry. May every ASJ student retain curiosity and passion for learning, and actively explore the world and their unique futures.