Overview
- Elementary schools build academic/social foundations for high school success through foundational skills, social connections, and independence.
- Progressive, traditional, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and renown approaches stimulates curiosity, critical thinking, and adaptability.
- Reedley International School blends these methods, practicing project-based learning, leadership, and global readiness to equip students for lifelong growth.
Elementary schools are more than just places of learning—they play a crucial role in shaping young minds. From teaching strategies to dedicated educators, this stage lays the groundwork for children to become active learners and serves as a stepping stone to higher education.
That is why choosing the right school can make a lasting impact on your child’s academic journey. By establishing essential skills, elementary education helps students develop the confidence they need to succeed in more advanced academic settings.
Here are the different ways elementary schools prepare students for high school.
How Do Elementary Schools Prepare Students for High School?
Elementary education is a vital stepping stone to high school, helping students develop academic and social skills that set them up for success. At Reedley, we create a supportive learning environment where students can grow in confidence and ability, making the transition to high school smoother and less overwhelming.
Building Foundational Skills
A strong academic foundation is essential for navigating the demands of high school. At Reedley, we emphasize developing core skills—reading, writing, listening, speaking, basic math, and social skills. Students build confidence and are better equipped to tackle more advanced coursework in the future by mastering these foundational skills. Strengthening these skills early on provides the tools needed for long-term academic success.
Fostering Social Connections
Beyond academics, strong social skills are essential for adjusting to high school life. Forming friendships, working in teams, and communicating effectively all contribute to a thriving high school experience. That’s why we encourage collaboration through group activities and class discussions, allowing students to build meaningful connections with their peers.
Encouraging Independence and Responsibility
At Reedley, we develop students’ cognitive, social, and leadership skills at every stage.
In middle school, students enrich their cognitive reasoning and higher-order thinking skills, building a strong foundation for critical analysis and problem-solving. This stage also introduces leadership training, allowing them to develop confidence and responsibility as they take on active roles in school and group activities.
As students advance to high school, we focus on Social-Emotional Learning, Life Skills, and Social Skills to foster their personal and interpersonal development. Work Immersion provides real-world exposure, preparing them for future careers and responsibilities. We also cultivate independence and responsibility by helping students refine their time management, task completion, and decision-making skills. These habits build confidence and equip them for the challenges of high school and beyond.
Approaches in Elementary Education
Elementary schools in the Philippines follow various educational philosophies and curricula to help students transition smoothly into high school. Whether you’re considering a progressive, traditional, Montessori, or international school, each approach equips students with the academic and social skills needed for success.
Here are some of the different ways elementary schools and programs prepare students for high school:
Progressive Education
Progressive education focuses on student-centered learning, where students’ interests and curiosity shape their educational experience. This approach encourages collaborative learning, student-driven learning spaces, and solution-centered project challenges.
Reedley integrates both progressive and traditional learning methods. This balanced model includes project-based learning, where students participate in hands-on activities that enhance problem-solving skills and creativity. By blending structured instruction with interactive experiences, Reedley cultivates a love for learning while equipping students for meaningful contributions to society.
Traditional Schools
Traditional schools follow a structured curriculum that emphasizes direct instruction, standardized testing, and discipline. Teachers lead lessons, and students primarily learn through lectures, memorization, and assessments.
This method builds a strong foundation in core subjects and helps students develop study habits that are beneficial for high school.
Montessori Programs
Independence, self-directed learning, and hands-on exploration are key principles in this educational approach. In Montessori classrooms, students engage in practical activities that allow them to progress at their own pace, fostering a deeper understanding of various subjects.
This approach nurtures critical thinking, adaptability, and problem-solving skills. By encouraging responsibility and self-motivation, Montessori programs help students develop the confidence to succeed.
Reggio Emilia Approach
Reedley International School integrates the Reggio Emilia approach, a child-centered philosophy emphasizing self-directed, experiential learning. Originating in Italy, it values curiosity and symbolic expression through the “100 languages” of learning, such as art and drama, with teachers as partners. This approach fosters critical thinking, autonomy, and social skills in elementary education.
At Reedley, students engage in immersive projects that align with their interests, developing problem-solving abilities and lifelong learning habits. Parent involvement enriches the learning experience and fosters stronger community engagement. The curriculum nurtures creativity, critical thinking, and emotional growth, ensuring a well-rounded education beyond academic development.
International Curriculum
The international curriculum prepares students for a globally connected world by offering internationally recognized programs such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) and Advanced Placement (AP).
AP courses, in particular, provide rigorous, college-level learning opportunities that strengthen students’ academic foundations and readiness for higher education.
Reedley cultivates critical thinking, intercultural understanding, and multilingual skills, preparing students for diverse learning environments. Through AP and international programs, the school builds confidence for high school challenges. Cultural exposure enhances adaptability, equipping students for an increasingly competitive academic landscape.
Key Takeaway
Understanding how elementary school programs can prepare your bright young learner, you can make an informed decision about the best environment for their growth and future success.
Set your child on the path to success with Reedley International School. Contact us today to learn more about our programs and how we can support their academic journey!
