The visual arts are integral to the IB Primary Years Program (PYP) at KIS. They are a powerful mode of communication through which students explore and construct a sense of self and develop an understanding of the world around them.

The visual arts provide our students with a wide range of opportunities and means to respond to their experiences and engage with historical, social, and cultural perspectives. The students are stimulated to think and to articulate their thoughts in new ways, and through a variety of media.

The visual arts as a medium of inquiry also provide opportunities for learning, communication, and expression. Learning about and through arts is fundamental to the development of the whole child, promoting creativity, critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and social interactions.

KIS believes that the visual arts engage students in a creative process that leads them to experiment in an ongoing cycle of creating and reflecting. This kind of creative process can truly be what drives learning through inquiry.

From an early age, KIS students have the opportunity to develop genuine interests in visual arts—learning to carefully consider their work and become self-critical and reflective. Reflecting on and evaluating their own work and the work of their peers is important as it empowers students to take risks and develop confidence. By exposing our students to the arts, KIS believes that these creative experiences open doors to asking questions about life and learning. The whole creative process of making and appreciating art is inspiring and encourages our KIS students to continue creating throughout their lives.

Collaborative planning happens with the classroom teachers so that the content and concepts are covered both in homeroom and art classes.

Occasionally, children do not have enough time to finish their art projects during the class time. When this happens, students may miss part of their recess time outside in order to complete their art projects.