Elementary School
Ages 6-11 | International Primary School in Rome
A Strong Foundation
for Learning
At Rome International School (RIS), the Elementary years are where learning deepens and possibilities begin to blossom. Building on the foundations established in Early Years, students become increasingly capable thinkers who ask meaningful questions, make connections across subjects, and apply their learning to the world around them.
Following the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP), learning is inquiry-led, transdisciplinary, and connected to real-life experiences.
Supported by dedicated teachers who know every child, students develop strong academic foundations while growing as confident communicators, collaborative problem-solvers, and reflective learners. This internationally recognised approach prepares them for success in Middle School and nurtures the skills, character, and mindset for lifelong learning.
The IB Primary Years Programme
The International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme is designed to educate the whole child. At RIS, it provides the foundation for an education that develops not only academic achievement, but also the knowledge, skills, attitudes, and values that enable children to become confident, caring, and internationally minded learners. Rather than studying subjects in isolation, students make connections across disciplines and explore concepts that help them understand the world from multiple perspectives.
Through the PYP, every child at RIS develops:
- Conceptual Understanding Making connections that deepen learning
- Inquiry & Research Asking questions, exploring ideas, and thinking with purpose
- Essential Skills Building the skills to learn, collaborate, and thrive
- Positive Attitudes Growing with empathy, resilience, and responsibility
- Meaningful Action Making a positive difference in their communities
Connecting Learning
Across Subjects
In the IB Primary Years Programme, learning is organised around meaningful themes and real-world questions rather than taught as isolated subjects. This transdisciplinary approach helps students make connections between ideas, see learning from different perspectives, and understand how knowledge can be applied beyond the classroom.
At Rome International School, students develop knowledge and skills across the following subjects: English, Italian, Mathematics, Science, History, Geography, The Arts (Drama, Music, and Visual Arts), Personal, Social and Physical Education (PSPE), and ICT. Science, History, and Geography are explored through Units of Inquiry alongside other subjects wherever meaningful, creating rich learning experiences that reflect the interconnected nature of the world.
The PYP Exhibition
The PYP Exhibition is the culminating experience of the Primary Years Programme and a milestone in every student's journey at Rome International School. In Year 6, students work collaboratively to investigate a real-world issue or challenge that reflects their interests and learning.
Drawing on the knowledge, skills, and learner attributes developed throughout the PYP, students conduct in-depth research, think critically, collaborate with their peers, and present their findings to the wider school community. More than a final project, the Exhibition is a celebration of learning, growth, and the transition from Elementary to Middle School.
Enriching Every Learning Journey
Learning Environment & Outdoor Education
- Outdoor Learning – Regular learning in the Monte Mario Nature Reserve inspires curiosity, exploration, and environmental stewardship.
- Personalised Learning – Teaching is tailored to challenge, support, and engage every learner.
- Critical Thinking – Inquiry-led learning develops creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration.
- Technology – Digital tools, including Toddle, encourage reflection and strengthen home-school communication.
- Community – All students belong to a House system and attend weekly assemblies celebrate learning, achievements, and student talents.
- Leadership – Students use their voice to shape the school through student council, class representatives, prefects, and eco-council.
Music and Physical Education
- Specialist Teachers – Music and Physical Education are taught by dedicated specialist educators.
- Creative Expression – Music develops creativity, confidence, and a love of performance.
- Active Learning – Physical Education builds coordination, teamwork, and healthy lifelong habits.
- Library Learning – A full-time librarian inspires a love of reading, research, and independent learning.
LEGO® Education & STEAM
- Hands-On Learning – Students explore science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics through engaging, real-world challenges.
- LEGO® Education – Innovative resources encourage creativity, collaboration, coding, and problem-solving.
- Future-Ready Skills – STEAM learning develops critical thinking, resilience, and confidence through practical experiences.
- Part of Globeducate – As an ICS and Globeducate school, students benefit from a network-wide commitment to innovative STEAM education.
Languages
- Language Choices – From Year 3, students can study Arabic or Chinese as part of the curriculum with native-speaking teachers.
- Additional Opportunities – French and Spanish are available as third language options in the Middle and High School.
- Italian Pathway – Students can follow the Italian Curriculum starting from Year 1.
- Personalised Support – Specialist English as an Additional Language and Italian as an Additional Language teachers help multilingual learners build confidence and thrive in the classroom.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
- Rome as a Classroom – Visits to museums, historical sites, and cultural landmarks bring learning to life.
- Curriculum Connections – Every excursion is carefully planned to extend classroom learning in meaningful ways.
- Learning Through Experience – Students develop knowledge, skills, and understanding through hands-on exploration.
Ready for Middle School
RIS’s Elementary School prepares students academically, socially, and emotionally for the next stage of their learning journey. Throughout Year 6, teachers work closely with students and families to ensure a smooth and confident transition into Middle School.
See Learning Come to Life
Experience an Elementary education where inquiry, personalised learning, and nature come together in Rome helping every child to flourish.