How we learn
How we learn

Our learning approach

At Bellevue Children’s Academy, learning is active, purposeful, and engaging. Students explore ideas and deepen their understanding through inquiry and hands-on experiences. The International Baccalaureate Primary Years fuel curiosity and confidence, developing critical thinking and making meaningful connections.

 

As a PYP IB World Preschool and Elementary program for advanced learners, children engage in personalized instruction, daily visible thinking routines and quarterly learning portfolios.

 

With small class sizes, teachers provide the right balance of challenge and support. From Early Years through Elementary, students grow collaborative and engaged, taking ownership of their learning every step of the way.

Skills for life

Students gain life competencies that support strong academic progress and prepare them to be successful now and throughout their lifetime.

Developed with the University of Cambridge through Camtree, ISP’s Life Competencies framework ensures these skills are deliberately developed across each student’s journey.

Cognitive

Thinking deeply, questioning and problem-solving: "I lead my learning by solving problems, communicating confidently, and managing my time effectively."

Critical thinking

Making sense of information, solving problems, and making smart decisions

Creativity

Generating new ideas, exploring different perspectives and innovating 

Curiosity

Asking "why?" and "what if?" to deepen understanding and spark new ideas

Global

Understanding the world and taking action:  "I am curious about different cultures and take action for a better world."

Citizenship

Recognising one's role in the global community

Action

Taking meaningful steps to support social causes 

Understanding

Respecting different perspectives and ways of life

Self-leadership

Managing self, goals and growth:  "I know how I learn best, set goals and stay motivated to improve."

Confidence

Believing in self and tackling challenges with a positive mindset

Learning to Learn

Understanding how to improve learning strategies

Wellbeing

Balancing mental, emotional and physical health

Interpersonal

Working together and building strong relationships: "I collaborate, communicate and build meaningful relationships with others."

Collaboration

Working effectively as a team to achieve shared goals

Communication

Expressing ideas clearly and listening to others

Social-Emotional

Understanding emotions and managing them effectively

Digital

Using technology safely and creatively: "I use digital tools responsibly to communicate, create and innovate."

Digital Literacy

Using technology effectively and safely

Responsibility

Respecting others and making ethical choices online

Innovation

Using technology to develop ideas and improve solutions

Cognitive Global Self-leadership Interpersonal Digital

Uniquely for ISP schools developed in collaboration with

Camtree
Hughes Hall
Defi

Our IB students

As one of the best Elementary School in Washington State, our school provides IB students with the tools to develop critical thinking skills and tackle complex challenges. Through rigorous academic programs and the study of a second language, students gain cultural understanding and build meaningful connections in an increasingly interconnected and rapidly changing world.

Growing curious, confident minds

Our learning pillars enhance every student's experience - providing structure, opportunity and the support they need to grow.  As part of International Schools Partnership, our students benefit from a global network committed to the highest standards of learning.

  • Academic achievement

    Academic achievement

    Enjoy personalized learning that continuously enhances knowledge, skills and understanding.

  • Life competencies

    Life competencies

    Gain life skills to thrive in academics, as well as careers and personal lives.

  • Multilingualism

    Multilingualism

    Develop proficiency in multiple world languages, while being supported in home or first languages.

  • International opportunities

    International opportunities

    Try global skill-building programs and activities that develop critical thinking, teamwork and leadership.

  • Life and career pathways

    Life and career pathways

    Benefit from personalized guidance for university and career choices, supporting your chosen path.  

Social and emotional learning

Social and emotional learning

We have a strong, student-centred support system that nurtures both academic success and emotional wellbeing, with dedicated counselling and close collaboration between school and families. Students build resilience, confidence, and essential life skills through our social and emotional learning.

Measuring the quality of learning

We measure the quality of learning through International Schools Partnership’s Learning Improvement Process - LIP. This framework helps teachers and leaders reflect on what works and adapt quickly to meet each learner’s needs, ensuring every student feels ready to embrace good struggles and succeed.

Informed by evidence gathered through this process, our learning spaces continually evolve to spark curiosity, foster resilience and prepare students with the skills they need to thrive - not just in school, but in life. Every improvement is guided by what drives real progress for learners.

Michael Gwaltney

BCA is a community where children are known, supported, and challenged to grow.

Michael Gwaltney, Head of School

Inquire now

Grow curiosity, confidence, and character. At Bellevue Children’s Academy, students explore boldly, think deeply, and build the skills to thrive in school and beyond.

Inquire now