The Gift School has two primary school level classes for ages 6-10 (grades 1-5). Every child has one French teacher and one English teacher.
Following the recommendations of experts in the field of bilingual childhood, primary level students have two separate classrooms: one English classroom and one French classroom.
To respond to the physical, physiological, and cognitive needs of each child, primary level teaching methods are inspired by the Freinet method as well as Montessori, project-based learning, democratic education, cooperative learning, and other innovative approaches.
To further build upon the emotional intelligence skills acquired in Pre-Kindergarden, primary classes pursue their work on exploring emotions and developing strategies to improve concentration. Teachers implement techniques like yoga, self-massage, meditation, and mindfulness to help students develop their attention.
The Gift School team is trained in positive education and emotional intelligence according to the Filliozat method, and namely with Célie Dabry, therapist specialized in parent-child relationships. This approach which cultivates respect for each child and takes into account their emotional well-being, fosters a healthy and nurturing learning environment. At the primary level, the emotional intelligence techniques learned in Pre-Kindergarden are put to use in guided discussions and dialogues facilitated by adults. Children are encouraged to identify and express their emotions constructively and respectfully, drawing inspiration from techniques developed by the method of Nonviolent Communication. This approach helps develop essential skills for effective and positive communication and conflict resolution.
Nature is an essential element of the Gift School’s pedagogical project. Whenever possible, teachers organize class or activities outdoors, as close to nature as possible. Every spring, each class designs and develops their own fruit and vegetable garden in the school’s vast garden.
Each child progresses at his or her own rhythm, which means that there is no limit to how far the child can go. Teachers are here to guide and accompany with respect for the child’s interests as well as in keeping with the French National Educational Program.