Primary Curriculum Framework

A Blended Model: IPC + Zambia National Curriculum Framework (2023)

1. Curriculum Philosophy

The LPSE Primary Curriculum is a blended, inclusive curriculum that integrates:

• The International Primary Curriculum (IPC) – for its enquiry-based, thematic, skills-focused and child-centred approach; and
• The Zambia National Curriculum Framework (ZNCF) 2023 – to ensure national relevance, compliance, cultural identity, and assessment standards.

This blended model ensures learners at LPSE are:

• Academically competent
• Curious and critical thinkers
• Socially responsible and values-driven
• Prepared for national assessments and lifelong learning

The curriculum reflects LPSE’s mission: inclusive, nurturing, high-quality education where no child is left behind.

2. Curriculum Aims

The LPSE curriculum aims to develop learners who:

• Are literate, numerate, and articulate
• Demonstrate critical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Show respect for diversity and inclusion
• Possess strong moral values and life skills
• Are confident, independent, and collaborative learners

3. Curriculum Structure (Reception – Grade 7)

Curriculum Organisation

Component	Framework Source	Purpose
English	Blended	Literacy, communication, Phonics
Mathematics	Zambia National Curriculum	Numeracy, logical thinking
Integrated Science	Blended	Scientific knowledge, Creative and Critical Thinking
Social Studies	Zambia National Curriculum	Citizenship, culture
Zambian Languages	Zambia National Curriculum	Cultural identity
Religious Education	Zambia National Curriculum	Moral & spiritual development
Creative & Expressive Arts	Blended	Creativity & expression
Physical Education	Zambia National Curriculum	Health & wellbeing, Motor Skills, Talent Identification
IPC Units	International Primary Curriculum	Enquiry-based, cross-curricular learning
Life Skills & Values	LPSE Enrichment	Character & inclusion

4. IPC Integration Model

How IPC Fits at LPSE

IPC is used as the delivery framework for much of the curriculum, while Zambian syllabus outcomes guide content and assessment.

Each term includes:

• 1–2 IPC thematic units (e.g. Living Things, My Community, The Journey of Food)
• Clear subject learning goals mapped to ZNCF outcomes
• Skills development (research, communication, collaboration)

IPC Learning Strands

• Subject goals (English, Maths, Science, Geography, History, Art)
• Personal goals (adaptability, resilience, cooperation, respect)
• International mindedness

5. Subject Breakdown (Grades 1–7)

5.1 English Language

Framework: Zambia National Curriculum (2023)

• Reading and comprehension
• Writing and grammar
• Speaking and listening
• Phonics (early grades)

IPC supports literacy through thematic reading, research, and presentations.

5.2 Mathematics

Framework: Zambia National Curriculum (2023)

• Number operations
• Measurement
• Geometry
• Data handling

Mathematics concepts are reinforced through IPC real-life contexts.

5.3 Integrated Science

Framework: Zambia National Curriculum (2023)

• Living and non-living things
• Matter and energy
• Earth and environment
• Health and safety

Science enquiry skills are strengthened through IPC investigations.

5.4 Social Studies

Framework: Zambia National Curriculum (2023)

• Family and community
• Zambian history and heritage
• Citizenship and governance
• Environmental responsibility

IPC geography and history units enrich local content.

5.5 Zambian Languages

Framework: Zambia National Curriculum (2023)

• Local language literacy
• Oral communication
• Cultural appreciation

Languages offered based on learner demographics and DEBS guidance.

5.6 Creative & Expressive Arts

Framework: Blended

• Art and design
• Music and drama
• Creative expression

Delivered through IPC units and stand-alone lessons.

5.7 Physical Education & Health

Framework: Zambia National Curriculum (2023)

• Physical fitness
• Games and sports
• Health education
• Motor Skills

5.8 Life Skills, Values & Inclusion

• Personal safety
• Emotional literacy
• Social skills
• Respect for diversity
• Inclusion awareness

This strand supports SEN learners and whole-child development.

6. Inclusive Education & SEN Adaptations

LPSE follows Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles:

• Differentiated instruction
• Multi-sensory teaching
• Flexible pacing
• Individual Education Plans (IEPs)

SEN Support Includes:

• Curriculum modification where necessary
• Small-group and one-on-one support
• Collaboration with parents and specialists

7. Teaching & Learning Methodology

• Enquiry-based learning (IPC)
• Direct instruction where appropriate
• Group work and collaboration
• Hands-on and experiential learning
• Continuous assessment for learning

8. Assessment Framework

Assessment Types

• Formative assessment (ongoing)
• Summative assessment (end of topic/term)
• Portfolio-based assessment (IPC)
• National assessment alignment (ZNCF)
• School Based Assessments (ZNCF)

Assessment is adapted for SEN learners as per IEPs.

9. Progression & Transition

• Clear progression across grades
• Smooth transition from Early Years to Primary
• Preparation for upper primary and national expectations

10. Curriculum Review Cycle

The LPSE curriculum will be reviewed:

• Annually by school leadership
• In response to national curriculum updates
• Based on learner performance and SEN needs

The LPSE blended curriculum combines global best practice with national relevance, ensuring learners receive a well-rounded, inclusive, and future-ready education that aligns with both IPC philosophy and the Zambia National Curriculum Framework (2023).

Life Path, the Right Path